Women who experience pain at the entrance of the vagina often ask, “Do I have vaginismus or is there another problem?” he thinks. It is not right to answer this question just by looking at the name of the symptoms. Where the pain is felt, when it started, whether it is triggered by touch, and how the muscles react are evaluated together.
What is vulvar vestibulitis syndrome?
Vulvar vestibulitis syndrome may present with pain and tenderness that become evident with touch or pressure in the area called the vestibule at the entrance of the vulva. Burning, stinging and sharp pain may be felt during tampons, gynecological examinations, tight clothing or during sexual intercourse.
Pain is usually felt limited to the entry area. However, contraction accompanied by pain, the person protecting himself and avoiding penetration may also be observed.
What is vaginismus?
Vaginismus is associated with involuntary contraction of the muscles around the vagina during attempted penetration. Even if the person wants to have intercourse, the body; may react by closing the legs, withdrawing, contracting, or intense anxiety.
The main feature of vaginismus is not only the expectation of pain. Contraction may occur before the trial begins or at the time of contact. Situations such as examination and tampon use may also become difficult.
What is the main difference between the two cases?
To put it simply, contact pain in the entrance area is more prominent in vestibulitis, and involuntary contraction is more prominent in vaginismus. However, this distinction does not contain clear boundaries. The person experiencing pain may develop contractions over time; A person experiencing vaginismus may also have sensitivity in the vestibule tissue.
- Tip in favor of vestibulitis: Burning or sharp pain at the entrance with light touch.
- Hint in favor of vaginismus: Involuntary contraction and closure response with the thought or attempt of penetration.
- Common area: Anxiety, avoidance, difficulty in sexual intercourse and fear of examination.
What is evaluated during the diagnosis process?
First, the story of the complaint is heard. The location of the pain, its onset, its relationship to touch, tamponade or examination experience, infection history, birth and surgeries are evaluated.
The examination should be carried out step by step, with the consent of the person. While sensitive areas in the entrance area are gently evaluated, it can also be observed whether the pelvic floor muscles are contracting involuntarily. The aim is not to force the person, but to understand the source of the pain and contraction.
Is the treatment approach the same?
In either case, one size fits all. Skin, infection, hormonal or pelvic floor problems accompanying vestibulitis are investigated. In vaginismus, safe progress, anxiety management, pelvic floor awareness and psychosexual support when necessary may come to the fore.
If pain and contraction occur together, both areas may need to be addressed simultaneously. Simply “trying to relax” or trying repeatedly while in pain can strengthen the cycle in some people.
When should a doctor be consulted?
If there is recurrent pain at the entrance, significant difficulty with tampon or examination, avoidance of sexual intercourse, burning, stinging or involuntary contraction, an evaluation should be made. If the pain is frequent or severe, it is appropriate to consult a gynecologist and obstetrician instead of waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does vulvar vestibulitis turn into vaginismus?
The experience of pain can trigger anxiety and involuntary contraction over time. These two conditions can occur together; However, it is not correct to say that one necessarily turns into the other.
Where is vestibulitis pain felt?
It is usually felt as burning, stinging or increased sensitivity to touch in the vestibule area at the entrance of the vagina.
Is vaginismus only seen during sexual intercourse?
No. Involuntary contraction and straining may also occur in situations involving penetration, such as tampon use or gynecological examination.
Should intercourse be continued if there is pain?
It is not right to force when there is pain. The cause of the pain should be evaluated and a safe approach should be planned.
This article has been prepared for general information purposes. It is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or personalized treatment advice.
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