The Treatment of Sexual Dysfunctions - Sex Therapy

The “Classic” Dysfunctions - The Treatment of Female Sexual Dysfunctions

Vaginismus: Possible Causes
In a few rare cases, vaginismus develops as a protective reaction against previously experienced pain during sexual intercourse which, in turn, was caused by some injury or disease of the internal sex organs. Obviously, in such a case, the underlying physical cause must be treated.
However, very often the causes of vaginismus are entirely psychological. For example, the woman may have had some traumatic experience such as rape or coitus with an inconsiderate partner. Such experiences must be addressed before any treatment can begin.
There may also be a simpler explanation: A woman whose partner is unable to have or hold an erection may eventually become so frustrated and apprehensive about his futile attempts at coitus that her vagina tightens involuntarily. On the other hand, even a man with healthy sexual responses may eventually become dysfunctional if he always finds the woman's vagina too tight for penetration. Thus, a couple may enter a vicious circle of mutual disappointment. It then makes little difference how the problem began. Both the man and the woman need treatment.
Another possible cause of vaginismus is a strict and puritanical upbringing that teaches a girl to consider sex dirty or evil. Such negative attitudes can very well prevent her from functioning sexually at all.