Mental vaginismus is a condition where a woman experiences involuntary muscle spasms in the vaginal area. The spelling of this word can be confusing for some, but it is pronounced as /ˈmɛntəl vædʒɪnɪz(ə)məs/. The first syllable is pronounced like "men", the second is pronounced like "tal", and the stress is on the first two syllables. The final syllables are pronounced as "va-jin-IZ-muhs". Awareness of this condition is important, as it can cause significant pain and discomfort for those who suffer from it.
Mental vaginismus, also known as psychogenic vaginismus, is a condition where the muscles in the vagina involuntarily contract in response to thoughts, emotions, or psychological factors. This reaction creates pain and discomfort during attempted vaginal penetration, including sexual intercourse, tampon insertion, or gynecological examinations.
In contrast to primary vaginismus, which is typically believed to have a physical cause, mental vaginismus is thought to be primarily influenced by psychological or emotional factors. These may include fear, anxiety, past traumatic experiences, relationship issues, or negative beliefs about sexuality. These factors can trigger a reflexive muscular response in the pelvic floor, wherein the muscles involuntarily tighten or spasm, making vaginal penetration difficult or impossible.
The symptoms of mental vaginismus can vary in severity from mild discomfort or pain to a complete inability to engage in any form of vaginal penetration. Individuals with this condition may experience rapid and involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles, accompanied by feelings of anxiety, stress, or fear.
Treatment for mental vaginismus is typically focused on addressing the underlying psychological and emotional factors that contribute to the condition. This may involve individual or couples therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, desensitization exercises, relaxation techniques, and education about sexual health and anatomy. In some cases, healthcare professionals may recommend the use of vaginal dilators or muscle relaxants to help relax the pelvic floor muscles and facilitate gradual desensitization.
It is important to note that mental vaginismus is a treatable condition, and with the right approach and support, individuals can overcome the challenges it presents and regain a fulfilling and pleasurable sex life.
V. caused by repugnance to the sexual act.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "mental vaginismus" is not a recognized medical or psychological term. It seems to be a combination of different concepts.
1. Vaginismus: Vaginismus refers to a condition where there is involuntary muscle spasms in the vaginal muscles, making penetration or sexual intercourse painful or impossible. The term "vaginismus" itself comes from Latin, where "vagina" means "sheath" or "scabbard", referring to the vaginal canal, and "-ismus" is a suffix indicating a condition or state.
2. Mental: "Mental" typically refers to anything related to the mind or mental processes, often used to denote psychological or emotional aspects.
It seems that "mental vaginismus" combines the concept of vaginismus with a psychological or emotional component.