Is Vulvodynia different from Vaginismus?
Vulvodynia and Vaginismus are two different conditions which may coexist or exist totally independent of each other. Frequently these conditions are confused and misdiagnosed. Vaginismus is an involuntary spasm of the pelvic floor muscles keeping the vagina closed and preventing insertion of tampons or penetration during intercourse. This spasm can be a natural protective and guarding response to prevent exacerbation of pain, or it may be a more chronic spasm of the muscle due to organic irritants or psychological fears. Vulvodynia related symptoms may result in secondary vaginismus, but the real problem of vulvodynia should not be overlooked on account of the muscle spasm, which may be most evident during a medical exam. Both conditions need to be treated individually during therapy. The problem of Vaginismus is much more common than Vulvodynia and responds well to therapy.
