What is Vaginismus?
Vaginismus is defined as persistent or recurrent difficulties of a woman to allow vaginal entry of a penis, finger and/or any object, despite her expressed wish to do so.
This is attributed to involuntary tightening of muscles around the vagina during attempted intercourse, when touching the vagina, or during tampon insertion or vaginal examination. This unpleasant sensation makes it difficult for couples to have pain-free intercourse, which affects plans for conception.
There are two types of vaginismus:
Causes
The cause of vaginismus is unknown. It is, however, often associated with the following:
Secondary vaginismus may develop in some women after childbirth, post gynaecological surgery or treatment, or after menopause.
Symptoms
Symptoms of vaginismus vary in women. Women may report one or more of the following:
Is Vaginismus Treatable?
Yes! Women living with vaginismus should not suffer in silence. There have been several studies showing vaginismus can be successfully treated with conservative management.
A Women’s Health Physiotherapist will be able to guide you through your recovery by developing awareness, regaining control of your pelvic floor muscles, improve mobility, and overcome pain and anxiety of vaginal penetration.
Physiotherapy management will involve a combination of the following techniques:
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What can I expect from my first consultation for vaginismus?
You will undergo an assessment that includes not only your medical history but also a comprehensive sexological history. A vaginal assessment within your comfort limits will be performed to identify the causes of the issue.
2.What does pelvic physiotherapy vaginismus treatment involve?
During the session, you will learn more about the female genitalia and muscular function. Depending on the individual, we may recommend a range of interventions such as perineal massage, dilator training, and the use of dilators to gradually introduce normal sensation to the pelvic floor, which helps with penetration and breathing techniques. Based on the person’s goals and exam findings, We will also recommend a treatment plan with a timeline and a purpose for subsequent follow-ups, based on your goals and exam findings.
3.How many sessions are required?
For vaginismus or dyspareunia, we typically expect to review a person 4-5 times (on average) over a 2-3 month timescale. This varies from person to person depending on many factors, but we would expect to see a fifty percent improvement over 4 weeks.
Do not be embarrassed or suffer from your condition any further. Our Women’s Health Physiotherapists are here to help! Feel free to contact us at 84813151 for more information or to arrange an appointment.
Book an AppointmentThe therapist (Maureen) was great. Very experienced, patient and caring, made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire 4 sessions I had with her. Will definitely recommend her to anyone who needs such therapy. The counter staff are very responsive, friendly and efficient. Understanding and prompt in accommodating requests to make changes to appointments. Prompt service and zero waiting time during all my 4 sessions there. Overall, excellent standard of care and service. Keep up the good work!
Thanks to physiotherapist Maureen’s patience, understanding and expert guidance, I was able to make significant progress in my condition over three sessions! Most of all, her empathy, assuring presence and listening ear helped me to feel understood, comforted and supported in my anxieties. Will fully recommend the clinic and Maureen as a wonderful community resource for women & children issues.
So far good experience. Dr Maureen is nice and friendly so I didn't feel awkward throughout. She's also knowledgeable and prioritize my comfort. The receptionist is pleasant as well. Overall, I feel cared for and safe to have my womanly issues treated at their clinic
I was referred by my gynac for my pelvic gridle pain. I have been working with Maureen and I'm super delighted with the way she has been handling my issue. She is extremely patient and explains well. I have been to physios earlier but never really seen satisfying results; this is the first time I feel it's worth it cause I'm able to see how it is making a difference. I still have a few sessions to go but I'm glad I signed up and I look forward to my appointments. There is no hard selling, and the reception staff is super warm and helpful. Overall, very good experience.
I’m happy with my overall experience consulting this clinic through Maureen. She educated me well about vaginismus and go through with me patiently with all the FAQs in my head. I’m progressing now with her guidance and support. Thank you.
I've been seeing Ms Maureen for my pelvic floor after birth and she has been great in showing me exercises to strengthen my weak pelvic floor after my third birth. Ms Maureen takes time to explain the anatomy to me which makes it easier for me to follow and excel the exercises. I always look forward to the appointments with her as she is also such an amazing person to chat with. Also, the ladies at the front desk are very friendly and approachable. Love coming to this clinic!
Staff is very friendly and accommodating. Very easy to make an appointment too. The physiotherapist is very knowledgeable and kind. Will definitely come back to complete all my sessions.
I was referred by my gynae to WACC and the physiotherapist, Maureen helped with the weakening of my pelvic muscles post delivery. Maureen is extremely knowledgeable and patiently explained the exercises that would help improve my condition. It has certainly helped and I can see improvement in strengthening the pelvic muscles.
Maureen was able to accommodate my urgent session and helped relieve my pain tremendously.
East Gate @ Katong
46 East Coast Road, East Gate @ Katong
#07-03
Singapore 428766
Orchard
545 Orchard Road,
#08-07A Far East Shopping Centre,
Singapore 238882
Phone: 9126 8257
Fax: 6281 1209
Email: contact@physioandsole.com
Whatsapp a Podiatrist: 91754929
Whatsapp a Physiotherapist: 98997967