At the Center, I frequently see patients suffering from vaginismus. Vaginismus is a “female sexual dysfunction,” specifically a genital pain disorder. Vaginismus is defined by involuntary spasms of the vaginal muscles which interfere with sexual intercourse. It goes without saying that this condition causes distress and tension in a couple’s relationship.
In my search to find ways to explain this disorder and help clients who suffer, I recently discovered Dr. Peter Pacik’s book, When Sex Seems Impossible, Stories of Vaginismus and How You Can Achieve Intimacy. Dr. Pacik skillfully explains what vaginsimus is, how it is differentiated form vulvodynia, why many women suffer from it and how it can be successfully treated. Many women who suffer from vaginismus have been told that it is all in their heads. This is definitely not the case. Even under sedation, these women often have severe and intense muscular contractions. There is a lot we can do to treat this condition and Pacik’s book is a great way to learn more about it.