(văj″ĭn-ĭz′mŭs)
[Pronunciation]
[L.]

Painful spasm of the vagina from contraction of the outer third of the muscles surrounding it, a condition that may interfere with coitus.

See: Nursing Diagnoses Appendix
Severe vaginismus may prevent intercourse. It origin may be physical or psychological. Diagnosis is based on pelvic examination (to rule out vaginal infections or structural anomalies) and sexual history, including childhood experiences and familial attitudes and current sexual practices and responses.

PATIENT CARE
Patients with vaginismus need factual information and emotional support. Information about sexual concerns, practices, and responses should be geared specifically to the problem or question posed by the patient. Correcting myths and misinformation and teaching the woman about the range of normal sexual responses can be helpful. Treatments include pelvic relaxation exercises, sex therapy, counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy, and instrumental dilator therapy, among others. Addressing the patient's emotional concerns provides psychological support. The woman should be helped to attain security and comfort in her own sensate sexual responses. Additional suggestions for patients may include advice about extending foreplay to increase vaginal relaxation and lubrication.