What is
vaginismus? It’s an intimate condition that causes pain, embarrassment, relationship problems, can ruin your sex life – and often goes undiagnosed, too. But do not despair, as around eight out of 10 of those afflicted can benefit from therapy and treatment Writing | Fiona Thomas
S
exual relationships in the modern world are complicated. On the surface, it seems like we’re hooking up more than ever. Everyone is swiping right and captivated by Love Islandesque romance. But statistics show that British adults are having less sex now than in previous years. As our stress levels rise and our libidos lower, connecting physically with your partner can sometimes feel like an obligation
instead of an act of love. For some people though, sex is a scary prospect because it’s a source of physical discomfort. In fact, one in 10 women in the UK experience pain during sex, and many others are suspected to have a condition called vaginismus, which regularly goes undiagnosed. WHAT IS VAGINISMUS? It occurs when muscles in the vagina contract in anticipation of pain. Those affected by vaginismus >>> August 2020 • happiful.com • 33
