🔷 What is Vaginismus?

Vaginismus refers to:

• involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles

• difficulty or inability to achieve penetration

• pain or intense discomfort

It may occur:

• during sexual intercourse

• when using a tampon

• during gynecological examination

 

🔷 Why does it happen?

Vaginismus is a reflexive body response, not a conscious choice.

 

🔹 Psychological factors

• Fear of pain

• Anxiety

• Negative beliefs about sex

• Traumatic experiences

• Shame or guilt

 

🔹 Muscle response

👉 The body “protects itself”

The pelvic floor muscles contract automatically, creating:

• tension

• pain

• avoidance

 

🔹 Relationship factors

• Lack of safety

• Difficulty trusting

• Pressure

 

🔷 The vicious cycle

• Attempted penetration

• Pain or difficulty

• Fear

• Muscle contraction

• Increased pain

👉 The cycle becomes reinforced

 

🔷 Important to know

👉 It is not “all in your head”
👉 It is not just about “relaxing”
👉 It is not your fault

✔ It is a natural body response that can change

 

🔷 How Sex Therapy Helps

Therapy focuses on:

✔ reducing fear
✔ relaxing the body
✔ restoring a sense of safety
✔ reconnecting with intimacy

 

🔹 It may include:

• Psychoeducation

• Relaxation exercises

• Gradual familiarization with the body

• Sensate focus

• Partner involvement

 

🔷 Gradual approach (very important)

Therapy is carried out:

👉 without pressure
👉 with respect for boundaries
👉 step by step

✔ each stage is tailored to the individual

 

🔷 Practical guidance

✔ Focus on safety
✔ Gradual re-approach
✔ Awareness and relaxation of muscles
✔ Communication with your partner

 

🔷 Common myths about vaginismus

❌ “There is no solution”
✔ Effective treatment exists

❌ “It’s rare”
✔ It is more common than you think

❌ “I just need to relax”
✔ Proper guidance is needed

 

🔷 When to seek help

• When penetration is difficult

• When there is fear or avoidance

• When there is pain

👉 The earlier you seek help, the more effective the treatment

 

🔷 What to expect

• A safe and confidential environment

• Understanding without judgment

• Gradual progress

• Practical guidance

 

🔷 About me

I am a Clinical Psychologist (MSc) specialized in sex therapy and couples therapy.

• I work with women and couples

• I apply evidence-based approaches

• Member of the International Society for Sexual Medicine

 

🔷 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can it be treated?
Yes, with proper guidance, there is significant improvement.

Is it only psychological?
No — it involves both the body and muscle response.

How long does therapy take?
It varies depending on the case, but progress is gradual.

 

🔷 Why can’t I have penetration?

Difficulty with penetration is linked to an automatic body response triggered by fear or tension. The body tries to protect itself, but this response can change with the right guidance.

 

🔷 Book an appointment

📍 Online or In-Person Therapy | Sessions in English / Greek 
📞 99536269

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👉 Book your first session today — with complete confidentiality