Understanding Difficulty with Penetration Vaginal spasms, pain during intercourse.

If you've ever felt that sexual intercourse is difficult, painful, or uncomfortable, it could be a sign of a condition called Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder (GPPPD), or "vaginismus." This can stem from various causes, including physical issues like pelvic floor muscle spasms, vaginal dryness, and psychological factors like anxiety or negative sexual experiences. Symptoms of difficulty with penetration:

• Physical symptoms:
  • Automatic vaginal spasms during penetration.
  • Burning or pain.
  • Feeling that the vagina is too narrow or tight.

• Psychological symptoms:
  • Anxiety, fear of pain, or fear of sexual intercourse.
  • History of negative sexual experiences.
  • Unconsciously avoiding sexual intercourse.

Causes of difficulty with penetration: This problem arises from a combination of factors, which can be categorized into 4 main groups:

1. Physical factors:

• Pelvic floor muscle spasms.
• Scar tissue or adhesions in the vagina.
• Vaginal dryness (common in menopausal women).
• Infections or inflammation in the reproductive system.

 2. Psychological factors:

• Negative sexual experiences, such as sexual abuse.
• Stress, anxiety, or depression.
• Fear of pain or pregnancy.

3. Social and cultural factors:

• Being taught that sex is wrong.
• Lack of proper sex education.

4. Relationship factors:

• Problems in the relationship, lack of understanding.
• Pressure from a partner or excessive desire to please.

Diagnosing difficulty with penetration:

• Doctors primarily rely on taking a medical history, inquiring about symptoms, duration, and feelings about sexual intercourse.
• There's no immediate internal examination unless further analysis is needed.
• Psychological questionnaires may be used to assess emotional factors and stress levels.

Treatment approaches: Treatment is individualized, focusing on a holistic approach:

1. Physical treatments:

• Pelvic floor therapy.
• Kegel exercises for muscle relaxation.
• Gradual use of dilators or vaginal expansion devices.
• Lubricants or hormone replacement therapy in cases of vaginal dryness.

2. Psychological therapies:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to change thoughts about sex.
• Sex therapy to help understand the body and sexual intercourse better.
• EMDR or Trauma Therapy for those with a history of abuse.

3. Adjusting attitudes and beliefs about sex:

• Providing accurate sex education.
• Practicing body ownership.
• Relaxation techniques to reduce fear.

4. Relationship therapy:

• Practicing communication about sex with a partner.
• Building understanding and mutual support.

Techniques you can practice at home:

• Explore and get to know your own body.
• Use a mirror to understand your genitals.
• Practice deep breathing and muscle relaxation.
• Use safe lubricants to reduce pain.
• Openly communicate with your partner about this issue.

Preventing difficulty with penetration:

• "No Blame Rule" - Avoid blaming or criticizing each other about sexual intercourse.
• Get regular sexual health checkups.
• Learn about sex education and your own body.
• Do not use violence or coercion in sexual matters.
• If there are problems, don't let them linger, seek professional help.

Final advice:

• This problem is not just a woman's issue, but a couple's issue.
• It's not uncommon, affecting 10-15% of women worldwide.
• It can be treated, but it takes time and understanding from both partners.
• Consult a specialized doctor for proper and effective treatment.

Spectrum Wellness is ready to provide professional care for your sexual health. 📍Schedule a free consultation or add LINE to inquire further! 😊