We are going to discuss a dysfunction today that has been said to be responsible for about 7% of unconsummated marriages worldwide. A dysfunction rarely spoken of but being experienced in about 15% of women with a suspected large number of cases going unreported. This dysfunction is the genito-pelvic pain, otherwise known as penetration disorder, a female specific disorder.
Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder is marked by difficulty with penetration during intercourse, vaginal or deeper pelvic pain, fear of pain resulting from vaginal penetration, and tension of the pelvic floor muscles when penetration is attempted.
Genito-pelvic pain and penetration problems are frequently comorbid with other sexual problems, particularly with low sexual desire. This condition, according to research, has been found to be prevalent among people who have suffered various forms of abuses especially physical and sexual abuses, with individuals who have suffered childhood sexual abuse being at a higher risk of the condition. Generally, people with higher levels of pain-related anxiety or fear tend to excessively worry or become anxious and catastrophize the negative consequences of pain and have the feeling that they will be unable to cope with it.
As such, they engage in behaviors that will help them escape from anything that they perceive will cause them pain. It is key to note that the pelvic region works also as an emotional organ, that is, it is affected by our emotions. Anxious emotions have been found to cause reflex contractions of the pelvic muscles thereby causing a tightening of the vagina muscles and further disabling the region from achieving successful penetration.
One of the main aims of sexual encounters is pleasure and not pain and so if you, a female, is frequently experiencing painful sex, seek professional help. Even though the DSM-5 requires that an individual should have experienced the symptoms associated with the dysfunction for at least 6 months, if you notice any of these symptoms, you can seek early treatment to prevent a full clinical diagnosis and to promote a healthy and enjoyable sexual life. Contact the Dialogue Genitalia Team for assistance if you or another need help. Ask your questions and drop your comments, or share this post and do not forget to join us in our final discussion in this series on Female Orgasmic Disorder.
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