Vaginismus
Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles around the vaginal opening involuntarily tighten, making penetration painful, difficult, or even impossible. This reflexive muscle response is not just physical, it’s often tied to emotional, psychological, or past trauma-based factors. Vaginismus can make intimacy, tampon use, gynecological exams, and even pelvic floor exercises feel overwhelming, leading many women to suffer in silence.
At Sparq Physical Therapy in Castle Rock, CO, we offer compassionate and confidential pelvic floor therapy designed to meet you where you are. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been struggling for years, our goal is to help you feel safe, supported, and empowered to reclaim comfort and control over your body.
Affected Area
Vaginismus affects the pelvic floor muscles, especially those surrounding the vaginal opening. Overactivity or guarding in these muscles can also impact the hips, low back, and core, and may contribute to tension or pain in nearby areas like the tailbone and abdominal wall.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include burning, stinging, or pain during penetration, inability to insert a tampon or undergo a pelvic exam, muscle tightness or spasm, fear or anxiety related to intimacy, and avoidance of sexual or medical situations. In some cases, even the thought of penetration can trigger a physical muscle response.
Treatments
Pelvic floor physical therapy can help reduce involuntary muscle tension, improve pelvic awareness, and gradually restore pain-free function. At Sparq PT, we offer trauma-informed, individualized treatment in a private, supportive environment. Your care plan may include:
Pelvic floor muscle relaxation techniques to reduce guarding and overactivity
Internal and external manual therapy to gently release tension
Breathing and nervous system regulation to reduce anxiety-driven responses
Dilator training to gradually desensitize and retrain the muscles
Education and empowerment to help you feel safe and in control every step of the way
You deserve to live without fear, pain, or shame. We’re here to walk with you through every part of your healing journey.