Vaginismusin NYC

Vaginismus is a medical condition that interferes with a woman's ability to enjoy penetration-based intercourse. The pelvic floor muscles contract or spasm involuntarily, causing discomfort and pain if anything is inserted into the vagina.

Older woman holding her hands behind her head

Why Choose Dr. Sonia Bahlani in NYC?

Dr. Sonia Bahlani founded her practice with an exclusive focus on women’s health issues related to pelvic floor disorders in NYC. Using a compassionate, holistic approach, Dr. Bahlani is able to get to the root of your discomfort and provide a superior solution for regaining your quality of life.

Dr. Bahlani received her Doctor of Medicine from the Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine in Richmond, VA. After completing a residency in OB/GYN at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Bahlani pursued elite Fellowship training in urology under the guidance of industry luminary Dr. Robert Moldwin, a leading pioneer in the field of pelvic pain.

What is Vaginismus?

Vaginismus is characterized by involuntary contractions in the pelvic floor muscles. This occurs in response to any attempt at vaginal penetration, making it difficult for women with the condition to enjoy physical intimacy, use a tampon, or undergo vaginal exams.

What are the Signs of Vaginismus?

Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse with penetration
Inability to insert a tampon
Inability to tolerate gynecological exams
Loss of interest in sex

Causes of Vaginismus

There can be multiple reasons why a woman experiences vaginismus, and the causes can have both physical and psychological origins.

Medical Disorders

Women experiencing yeast infections, STIs, and UTIs may find themselves dealing with vaginismus.

Surgeries

Women who have undergone surgeries in the pelvic area may experience vaginismus.

Hormonal Imbalance

Women experiencing hormonal shifts during pregnancy and childbirth or menopause may encounter vaginismus, as may those using hormonal contraceptives.

Anxiety and Trauma

For some women, a fear of sex triggers vaginismus. Victims of sexual assault, rape, incest, or trauma may also develop the condition as a coping mechanism.

Relationship Concerns

Trust issues in a relationship, as well as body dysmorphia, can sometimes lead to vaginismus.

Cultural and Religious Factors

Vaginismus may occur in individuals who have been influenced by their culture or religion to view sex in a negative light.

What is Primary Vaginismus?

Primary vaginismus describes a scenario in which vaginal penetration has never been possible. The condition is often discovered during puberty when the patient first attempts to use a tampon or have sexual intercourse with a partner.

What is Secondary Vaginismus?

Secondary vaginismus occurs when the patient is unable to tolerate vaginal penetration after years of successful intercourse and tampon insertion. Secondary vaginismus may occur due to childbirth, cancer, medications, surgery, trauma, or menopause.

Dr. Sonia Bahlani Holding clipboard speaking with patient

Treatment for Vaginismus

Dr. Bahlani provides holistic treatment for vaginismus, delving into the underlying reasons for discomfort. She is able to develop a one-of-a-kind treatment plan that can help you find relief and peace of mind. Treatment may take time and may involve the assistance of a physical therapist and counselor. Medications may also play a role in your healing process.

What is Physical Therapy for Vaginismus?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is an effective and widely used solution for vaginismus. It can help minimize pain and target the underlying muscles responsible for vaginismus. With physical therapy, you will learn easy-to-implement exercises that you can perform at home. Treatment can include:

Biofeedback
Pelvic floor exercises
Breathing techniques
Vaginal dilators
Manual therapy
Acupuncture
Trigger point injections
Botox or Daxxify injections