Re: Self-Assessment: How do I know if I have vaginismus?

[Heather34]

In the past, Dr. Pacik has written a Blog about this that I wanted to share with you:
“A frequently asked question when sex is impossible or intercourse is very painful (or intercourse is impossible) is the question: “How do I know if I have vaginismus?” There are a number of features which differentiate vaginismus from other sexual pain disorders. Often the inability to use a tampon at an early age is the first suggestion of vaginismus. For women attempting penetration there is often a “wall”, suggesting spasm of the entry muscle to the vagina, which cannot be penetrated. These and other symptoms of vaginismus can be read by linking to both vaginismus symptoms and symptoms of vaginismus. Another resource which will help you know if you have vaginismus and answer the question “How do I know if I have vaginismus” is the section on Frequently asked questions which also gives women an idea of what they should understand when searching for information about vaginismus. How do I know if I have vaginismus? is an important question that is the beginning of understanding vaginismus and finding available treatments such as the Botox multimodal program with its high rate of success.”

Dilators

I personally think dilators could be an option for you to try if you choose to. I have used both the Pure Romance set and Glass ones. I loved the Pure Romance set as they are different colors; a soft silicone material; and so importantly, have handles which make insertion, removal, and re-insertion possible. In the beginning, I liberally coated these dilators with lubricant and found that they did not dry out and, again, so importantly, by using them in a set time-frame, I was later able to transition to pain-free intercourse. I also have used the Glass ones and really like these too. I used these primarily before going to a gyno exam and love the fact that they are shorter in length and they also have handles which, again, makes insertion, removal, and reinsertion that much more doable. As far as techniques and positions for getting started with using dilators, I would definitely recommend that you order Dr. Pacik’s DVD that covers all aspects of dilating (angles of insertion and so much more).

Concerning this, he has written:

“For those of you who will not be able to schedule treatment I would urge you to contact my office and purchase a set of dilators, the DVD on dilation (about two hours of what is normally covered during the counseling session) and my book “When Sex Seems Impossible. Stories of Vaginismus & How You Can Achieve Intimacy”. When anxiety to penetration is very high, the full treatment is usually the best. You can link to vaginismus aids
http://www.vaginismusmd.com/vaginismus/vaginismus-aids/
and call the office for information about the DVD. The book on vaginismus can be ordered on our website and through Amazon.com”

I would love to hear from other Forum members and Dr. Pacik and Melissa here about their thoughts about your excellent questions as well. How does a patient know if they have vaginismus? What are your thoughts on a woman using vaginal dilators if they are not yet diagnosed with vaginismus?