VAGINISMUS

WHAT IS VAGINISMUS?

Vaginismus is vaginal tightness that results from the involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor. This causes the vagina to go in panic, and the anticipation of vaginal penetration to be too much to bear. This is a medical condition that is not just “in a woman’s head” and is a very real physical pain from the panic of penetration. It is not always clear which come first, the vaginismus or the anxiety.

TYPES OF VAGINISMUS

The two main types of Vaginismus are:

Primary Vaginismus- It is often discovered during the teenage years or early twenties during first attempts at using a tampon or engaging in sexual intercourse. This is when a woman starts a lifelong condition in which the spasming begins the first time a person tries to have sexual intercourse or insert an object into the vagina like a tampon. Even gynecological examinations may be difficult for a person to undergo.

During sex, a partner can describe it as “hitting a wall” at the vaginal opening. A person may experience generalized muscle spasms, pain, and a burning sensation. The symptoms stops immediately when the attempt at vaginal entry stops.

Secondary- Secondary vaginismus is often experienced after a period of normal sexual function without pain before but then it becomes difficult or impossible. This is also known as Acquired Vaginismus and is often attributed to hormonal changes, childbirth, frequent infection (UTI, STD’s, pelvic inflammatory disease, and others), gynecological surgery or trauma, or a traumatic event.

Women who experience vaginismus may also experience fear, general anxiety, avoidance of certain activities including sex, and protective behaviors. These protective behaviors may include muscular guarding or clenching of the muscles in the pelvic floor, buttocks, hips, thighs, neck, chest, and shoulders.

BOTOX FOR VAGINISMUS

Did you know that Botox has been used to treat Vaginismus since 1977? It is known that Botulinum toxin – “Botox” earned a reputation for its role in reducing facial lines. But the paralyzing effects known to smooth facial expressions can be just as helpful in addressing the painful and involuntary contractions of vaginismus as well.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR BOTOX TREATMENT FOR VAGINISMUS?

One of the most practiced treatment options for Vaginismus is the vaginal dilators which can improve symptoms. However, these improvements are often temporary and are not enough to make a difference in pain during sex (dyspareunia) The best candidates for Botox Vaginismus Treatments are patients who have tried both physical therapy and behavioral therapy without improvement of their symptoms. Dr. Dima Ali is proud to offer a breakthrough vaginismus treatment option that is reliable, life-changing for these women, in less than 20-minute outpatient procedure.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A BOTOX VAGINISMUS TREATMENT

During this signature Reston, VA Vaginismus Treatment, Dr. Dima Ali will inject Botox into the pelvic floor muscles. Topical Anesthetic is optional based on the patient’s pain tolerance. After 7-10 days, the Botox takes full effect allowing the patient to engage in pain-free sex. By the time the effects of the Botox wear off, usually about 3-4 months later, most patients can engage in painless intercourse, and experience normal penetration.