Vaginismus is a spasm of the vagina that occurs involuntarily and causes pain (called dyspareunia) during sexual intercourse and/or when a speculum is inserted into the vagina during a pelvic examination by a physician.[1] Causes of vaginismus and dyspareunia are discussed in our Q&A called Vaginismus (Vaginal Spasm & Related Pain).
A variety of ways to manage and treat vaginismus and dyspareunia are available, including the following self-care, naturopathic, homeopathic, and psychological approaches:[1, 2]
• Achieve and maintain and healthy body mass index (i.e., ratio of weight to height)
• Eat a healthy diet that is abundant in freshly-caught, cold-water fish; whole grains; fresh, organic vegetables and fruits; and healthy fats.
• Do not eat non-organically raised meat and poultry and non-organic dairy products.
• If you eat meat, poultry, and dairy products, select organically-raised meat and poultry and organic dairy products.
• Consult with your integrative medical physician for guidance on nutritional supplements that are appropriate for you.
• Take a homeopathic remedy, such as Lachesis, Magnesia phosphorica, Platinum metallicum, Sepia, or Staphysagria. Consult with a homeopath, a healthcare professional experienced in the use of homeopathy for guidance on selection of the homeopathic remedy and dose that is appropriate for you.
• Exercise regularly.
• Perform yoga postures that involve pelvic motion to increase circulation of blood and channel energy into the pelvic area.
• Practice Kegel exercises to elevate the uterus and cervix to a more normal position and to tone the muscles in the vaginal, urethral, and anal regions of the pelvis.
• Use graduated dilators to increase the ability of the vagina to accept penetration without a resultant spasm. The dilators can be obtained through your integrative medical physician or gynecologist. Learn the appropriate way to use the dilators.
• Build and maintain warm relationships with family and friends.
• Work with a psychologist or psychiatrist to resolve possible issues about past history of sexual abuse, negative attitudes towards sex, disappointments with past romantic partners, or problems with your spouse or current romantic partner.
• With your spouse or current romantic partner, explore counseling with a psychologist or sex therapist.
• When having any sexual practices with your spouse or current romantic partner, enjoy foreplay, which helps with relaxation and lubrication.
• With your spouse or current romantic partner, enjoy sexual practices other than or in addition to vaginal intercourse.
• If you are not currently in a romantic relationship and seeking a new partner, select a person who is patient, understanding, caring, and gentle.
REFERENCES
1. J Reichenberg-Ullman. Whole Woman Homeopathy. 2004. Edmonds, WA: Picnic Point Press.
2. I Ikenze. Menopause & Homeopathy: A Guide for Women at Midlife. 1998. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books.
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