Vaginismus. The leading cause of unconsummated marriage. A condition where the vaginal muscles involuntarily contract in association with vaginal penetration.
What? That’s a thing?
Yes, yes it is and it does not just prevent or make it difficult for the penis to enter the vagina, it can also impact the vagina owner’s use of tampons or menstrual cups, the ability to participate in a pelvic exam and the use of a speculum.
Overall, it does not sound like much fun. For many, vaginismus is accompanied by pain, for others there is no pain, but it does feel like their partner’s penis is hitting a wall as the vaginal muscles contract, preventing or making entrance difficult. For those experiencing pain with vaginismus, along with fear and anxiety, a complex pain cycle can be the result. This can be very difficult to fix or overcome without the help of a health professional.
Our Osteopaths have extensive experience treating those with vaginismus and have completed extra training in sexual disorders involving the vagina. We has a holistic approach to the treatment of the pelvic floor muscles, where conditions such as vaginismus may include; internal and/or external pelvic floor myofascial release work (we are only a handful of osteopaths qualified in Australia in the area of internal pelvic floor treatment), stress management, assistance with breathing mechanics, posture or alignment and general osteopathic techniques with a major emphasis on the fascia and the fascial lines present in the body that impact the pelvic floor and the breath.
We work alongside other health and wellness providers (acupuncturists, naturopaths, nutritionists, psychologists, exercise physiologists, exercises physiologists and hypnotherapists) and aims to educate our patients on movement practices to help lengthen the pelvic floor, breathing and meditation to assist with anxiety and stress, and the appropriate use of dilators to ensure all facets of her patients’ care are met.
If you are reading this and it resonates with you, we want you to know we’re here to help. If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment please call the clinic on (03) 9078 2939
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