A CASE REPORT ON VAGINISMUS - AN UNTOLD STORY

Abstract

Introduction: Vaginismus is common but less notified condition in women. It is defined as recurrent or persistent involuntary spasm of the musculature of the outer third of the vagina, which interferes with coitus and causes distress and interpersonal difficulty. The condition is noted in approximately one in two hundred young women. The reasons for vaginismus are not always clear. Various causative factors are reported like fear in the mind that the vagina is too small ,a bad first sexual experience ,an unpleasant medical examination ,believing sex is shameful or wrong and associated painful medical condition, like fungal infection of vagina. Materials and Methods: A case report of 25 years old married woman, who presented with primary vaginismus. She did not have any predisposing factors for vaginismus. Results: The report revealed that there were emotional and psychological disturbances in the woman and her spouse due to severe vaginismus. She was successfully treated by Gynaecologist and Psychologist using bimodal therapy. The report demonstrates a successful approach towards managing vaginismus in a clinical setting. Conclusion: Multi-modal therapy includes psycho sexual therapy, a type of therapy that aims to help woman understand and change her feelings about her body and sex ,pelvic floor exercises -squeezing and releasing exercises to gain control of the vaginal muscles, mindfulness and relaxation techniques that include breathing and gentle touching exercises to help woman learn to relax the vaginal muscles. Sensate focus exercises to help with relaxation during sex and increase in sex drive. Treatment is initially done under the guidance of specialised therapists. Woman is expected to practise some of the exercises at home. Treatment usually works in a matter of few week time.