Treatment of vaginismus depends on whether the root cause can be identified. If there is an obvious physical cause, like an injury or infection, this can be treated with appropriate medication.
Sex therapy
If the cause is less obvious, you may be taught some self-help techniques to try to resolve the problem.
Your GP will refer you to a health professional who specialises in sexual health, such as a psychosexual doctor or sex therapist. They will teach you some techniques to retrain your vagina to respond normally to penetration (see below).
Sex therapy is available through the NHS or privately.
As well as advising you on self-help techniques, your specialist may offer you:
- counselling to address any underlying psychological issues (such as fear or anxiety), and
- cognitive behavioural therapy to change any irrational or incorrect beliefs about sex and, if necessary, to educate you about sex.
See Useful links for more information on these therapies.
Your treatment plan will be based on your needs. You will be encouraged to take full control of your self-help treatment and go at your own pace.
Vaginal trainers
A technique to relax the muscles in the vagina involves gradually widening (dilating) the vagina with a set of vaginal trainers. These are four smooth, penis-shaped cones of gradually increasing size and length, which can be used in the privacy of your own home.
The smallest one is inserted first, using a lubricant if needed. Once you feel comfortable inserting the smallest one, you can move on to the second size, and so on.
It is important to go at your own pace and it does not matter how long it takes, whether it is days or months.
When you can tolerate the larger cones without feeling anxious or any pain, you and your partner may want to try having sexual intercourse.
Relaxation and touching
If the cone method is not right for you, relaxation and exploration exercises may help.
A bath, massage and breathing techniques are good ways to relax while you get to know your body.
If you reach the stage where you can put your finger inside your vagina, you can try to insert a tampon, using lubricant if needed.
It is important to take things slowly and gently and, when you are ready for intercourse, make sure you are fully aroused before attempting penetration.
