Treatment of vaginismus and pain during intercourse at OpenMed Warsaw
Pain during intercourse and difficulties related to penetration are problems that can affect not only intimate life but also well-being, partner relationships, and a sense of personal comfort. Although many women try to cope with these complaints on their own for a long time, they are not something that should be considered "normal". At OpenMed in Warsaw (Wola), we offer diagnosis and treatment of vaginismus and pain during intercourse, helping to find the cause of the problem and select effective management.
Vaginismus is a disorder involving an involuntary, will-independent contraction of the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the vaginal opening. This contraction can make intercourse, gynecological examination, or the use of tampons difficult or completely impossible. Pain during intercourse, in turn, medically referred to as dyspareunia, can have various causes - both physical and psychological. A correct diagnosis is crucial, because effective treatment depends on identifying the source of the complaint.
Causes of vaginismus and pain during intercourse
Vaginismus and painful intercourse can have a multifactorial basis. In some patients, excessive tension of the pelvic floor muscles plays a dominant role, while in others, inflammation, hormonal disorders, or past injuries are significant. The influence of stress, anxiety, or previous difficult experiences related to sexuality also cannot be overlooked.
The most common causes include:
- excessive tension of the pelvic floor muscles,
- chronic inflammation of the vagina and vulva,
- endometriosis, gynecological diseases, and scars after childbirth or procedures,
- estrogen deficiency leading to vaginal dryness,
- fear of pain, stress, and psychological factors affecting the body's response.
In many cases, the problem results from several overlapping factors, which is why diagnosis requires an individual approach.
Specialists in treating vaginismus and painful intercourse
Consult your symptoms with a gynaecologist or sexologist at OpenMed - we will choose the right form of treatment.
Symptoms worth consulting
The most characteristic symptom of vaginismus is difficulty or inability to have intercourse despite the desire for it. Women often describe a feeling of strong clenching, blockage, or pain appearing already at the attempt of penetration. In the case of dyspareunia, pain may occur at the beginning of intercourse, during it, or after it ends.
Additional symptoms may include burning, a feeling of tension in the perineal area, discomfort during gynecological examination, or difficulty inserting tampons. Regardless of the severity of the complaints, it is worth seeing a specialist, because pain during intercourse should not be treated as a natural part of sexual life.
What does vaginismus diagnosis at OpenMed involve?
Diagnosis begins with a gynecological consultation. The doctor conducts a detailed history regarding the nature of the complaints, their duration, and previous treatment. An important element is also discussing past illnesses, childbirths, procedures, and any factors affecting pelvic floor muscle tension.
Depending on the situation, a gynecological examination and an ultrasound examination are performed. If there are indications, the doctor may recommend additional laboratory diagnostics or a consultation with a urogynecological physiotherapist. The aim is to rule out conditions that may cause pain and to determine the most likely cause of the problem.
Treatment of vaginismus and painful intercourse
The treatment method depends on the cause of the complaint. In the case of vaginismus, therapy aimed at normalizing pelvic floor muscle tension and gradually regaining comfort during intimate contact brings very good results. If the source of the problem is gynecological conditions, inflammation, or hormonal disorders, treatment focuses on eliminating the cause of the pain.
At OpenMed, an individual management plan is developed, which may include gynecological treatment, education on the functioning of the pelvic floor muscles, hormonal therapy, or cooperation with a urogynecological physiotherapist. The aim is not only to reduce pain but also to improve quality of life and regain comfort in daily functioning.
Vaginismus treatment - FAQ
Yes. In many cases, appropriately selected treatment and therapy can significantly reduce symptoms or completely eliminate the problem.
The first step should be a gynecological consultation, which will help identify the cause of the complaint and plan further management.
No. The cause may also be gynecological diseases, inflammation, hormonal disorders, or excessive tension of the pelvic floor muscles.
Vaginismus itself does not directly affect fertility, but it can make intercourse difficult. Appropriate treatment helps regain comfort and makes it possible to pursue plans related to motherhood.
During the visit, the doctor conducts a detailed history, discusses symptoms, and selects appropriate diagnostics and a treatment plan tailored to the individual patient's situation.