Vaginismus Singapore - Vaginismus Treatment (Painful Sex)  
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Vaginismus

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:

  1. Vaginismus in women who have never achieved pain-free vaginal penetration is termed as “Primary Vaginismus”
  2. “Secondary Vaginismus” applies to a woman who has experienced non-painful intercourse in the past but reports of vaginal penetration difficulty subsequently.

Causes

The cause of vaginismus is unknown. It is, however, often associated with the following:

  • Lack of sexual knowledge
  • Negative sexual views 
  • Fear and anxiety issues (hymen state, penis being too big, of the thought of something penetrating), 
  • Strict sexual upbringing,
  • Religious influences
  • Traumatic sexual experiences.

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: 

  • Pain or discomfort during attempt of penetrative intercourse  
  • Fear and anxiety with vaginal examination due to anticipation of pain 
  • Difficulty with using tampon
  • Partner has difficulty finding the vaginal opening or feels like he is “hitting a wall” during attempted penetration

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: 

  • Patient education
  • Relaxation exercises
  • Desensitization therapy
  • Pelvic floor control exercises 
  • Manual therapy techniques
  • Dilation training

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.

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Google Reviews

JO

The 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!

Joanna Tang
PR

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.

Priscilla Teo
HO

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

Honey Bee
SH

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.

Sheetal Bodke
NE

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.

Nee zzii
JE

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!

Jeannie Liew
DE

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.

Deanna Manuel
NU

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.

Nur'rashikin Abdul Rashid
NO

Maureen was able to accommodate my urgent session and helped relieve my pain tremendously.

Normini

Clinic Location

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

Physio & Sole Clinic

Phone: 9126 8257

Fax: 6281 1209

Email: contact@physioandsole.com

Whatsapp a Podiatrist: 91754929

Whatsapp a Physiotherapist: 98997967