Let's talk about Vaginismus

Vaginismus is amazing common with some studies saying up-to 17% of women experiencing some level of penetration related pain or about 1 in 6 women which is amazing.

Vaginismus is when the muscles around the vagina tighten up on their own — usually without the person meaning for it to happen — making it painful, difficult, or even impossible to have sex, use a tampon, or have a medical exam.

It’s not caused by a physical blockage; rather, it’s like the body’s automatic “flinch” reaction to penetration. This tightening can happen because of fear, anxiety, pain, trauma, or sometimes no clear reason at all.

The good news is that vaginismus is treatable. With gentle exercises, relaxation techniques, and in the more pronounced cases therapy or medical support, most people fully recover.

First let me state clearly here for severe cases please seek professional medical advice. There are a few things you can try to help relieve this issue but there is definitely no magic cure or one-size fits all approach. The underlying causes of Vaginismus vary and are often a mix of multiple causes.

Psychological/Emotional issues -  Around sex, past trauma, cultural/religious beliefs etc

Physical/Medical Causes - Infections, Inflammation, Pelvic Floor dysfunction, Hormonal Changes like menopause or childbirth or a host of other issues.

Learned/Reflex Responses - Unconsciously body learned responses to penetration due to fear or habit or anxiety etc

Vaginismus Help options

PlayBlue Might Help

First this is not a race go slow and stay comfortable. Penetration should NOT be painful and don't accept pain as part of the process its not. It is also not the only part of sexual pleasure that you must achieve, relax try not to put pressure on anything especially yourself, easier said than done I know.

Lubricants - First and possibly the most important thing to try is a good water-based lubricant and to go super slow.  Ensure the lube is a natural and free from scent and harsh chemicals like the ID FREE - Hypoallergenic. 

Dilators - We sell packs of dilators in various sizes. To use them you work up through the sizes as comfortably as possible to gradually stretch and desensitize vaginal tissues and relax pelvic floor muscles to promote habituation to penetration. Again go slowly and use lubrication. Don't force anything. We sell a few maybe checkout the Skins Care Dilators Set

Relaxation & Pelvic Tension Vibrators - Sex Toys like the Kiwi OhNut are specifically designed to sooth muscle tension inside and out with rumbly shallow insertion. A palm vibrator like the Satisfyer Tropical Tip might also be a great option. You should also try Pelvic floor relaxation exercises, there are loads of simple guides online.

Bumpers / Penetration Depth Limiters - These are literally as the name suggests bumpers a man (or sex toy) wears that limit the depth of penetration ensuring as the action heats up no one loses an eye. Try the Sono Bumper Ring maybe.

At PlayBlue we have launched a new area on the website for a range of Sexual Wellness products and we plan to expand and offer support as much as possible.

Of course not all or maybe even any of these products are for you and like most things in life it may take time and patience. Please don't rush it or just accept it and progress might be non-linear or slow. It is super common so don't beat yourself up over it, seek the help and support you need because you deserve it.

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