There are so many myths surrounding Vaginismus, let’s try and bust them!
Myth 1: VAGINIMUS is all “in your head.”
Vaginismus is a condition where there is involuntary tightness of the vagina during attempted intercourse. The tightness is actually caused by involuntary contractions of the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the vagina. Those muscles are in your vagina, not your head.
Myth 2: VAGINISMUS is caused from sexual abuse.
Many women come to Maze with vaginismus thinking that they were sexually abused even though they have no memories of any abuse. They often think they have repressed memories of sexual abuse. Vaginismus can be caused for various reasons, and many women have vaginismus who have never been sexually abused, or abused in anyway.
Myth 3: VAGINSMUS can be cured with talk therapy.
I am a therapist, and believe talk therapy is definitely a part of the process of addressing vaginismus, but all by itself it will not make those muscles “untighten.” You must address both the emotional and physical parts of vaginismus.
Myth 4: VAGINISMUS can be cured by just relaxing and having a drink.
There is not a drink in this world that will cure vaginismus, of that I am sure. So many patients recount to us the numerous medical providers who have given them this “advice.” Vaginismus is not about relaxing those muscles with breath work or meditation. Although I highly advise them for overall well-being.
Myth 5: VAGINIMUS cannot be cured.
This is probably the worst myth of all. Vaginismus does not have to be a lifelong condition. Vaginismus can be cured, and you do not have to suffer! Pain free sex is possible!