vaginismus /vaj′iniz″məs/ [L, vagina + spasmus, spasm] , a psychophysiological genital reaction of women, characterized by intense contraction of the perineal and paravaginal musculature, tightly closing the vaginal introitus. It occurs in response to fear of painful intercourse before coitus or of pelvic examination. Vaginismus is considered abnormal if it occurs in the absence of genital lesions and if it conflicts with a woman’s desire to participate in sexual intercourse or to permit examination, but it may be a normal or physiological response if painful genital conditions exist or if forcible or premature intromission is anticipated. Abnormal vaginismus is uncommon. Sexual adjustment often can be achieved through educative and supportive measures that lead to improved sexual self-awareness and response. In some cases the condition is a manifestation of serious mental illness and requires formal psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Gender identity conflict, a history of trauma from rape or incest, or an intense suppression of sexuality in childhood and adolescence are factors that often are associated with vaginismus. See also dyspareunia.
