Caused by involuntary contraction of the perineal musculature.
The underlying cause is psychological.
Patients often have had strict religious upbringings in which sex was either not discussed or disccused in a negative fashion, or have had traumatic childhood experiences which have left them fearful of vaginal penetration.
Most often diagnosed in teenagers and young adult females.
Tx for vaginismus is effective with success rates of 80% or better.
Tx
     Relaxation
     Kegel exercises (to relax the vaginal muscles)
     Insertion of dilators, fingers, etc. to bring about desensitization

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The Compendium platform was created by David Kwinter, MD, CCFP(EM).