Vaginismus Therapy
Vaginismus therapy at Love Therapy Australia is online sex therapy for people who find penetration difficult or painful. Sessions are 50 minutes by secure video or telephone, and no GP referral is needed to book.
What is vaginismus?
Vaginismus describes involuntary tightening of the muscles around the vaginal opening when penetration is attempted or expected. It can make sex, and sometimes other activities involving the vulva or vaginal opening, difficult or painful. Some people describe this as a feeling of being pushed out or unable to enter past the vulva. Many people feel isolated by it, and it is not always talked about. Vaginismus can be incredibly responsive to sex therapy support and many clients go on to experience pleasurable penetrative sex.
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How sex therapy may help
Vaginismus is often closely tied to anxiety, past experiences and the habit of bracing the body. Sessions may explore:
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Fear and anticipation before sex, and how they change the body's response
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Tension and bracing, and how to notice them without judgement
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Communication with a partner about pace, touch and consent
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Past painful experiences, including medical experiences, and their effect on trust
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Pressure to have penetrative sex, and what intimacy can look like for you​
Therapy follows the pace you choose. Approaches may include gradual, consent-led steps and talk-based exercises that you can practise between sessions, if they suit you. Your therapist will explain each step before you try it and check in on what feels manageable.​
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Our Sex Therapists, Lauren, Emily, Tash and Anna all work with clients and couples experiencing vaginismus. ​​
Common questions about vaginismus therapy
Can sex therapy help with vaginismus?
Vaginismus is incredibly responsive to sex therapy. Sex therapy can support you to overcome the anticipatory pain cycle and gain greater awareness of your arousal needs and desires.
Do I need to see a doctor before I attend vaginismus therapy?
You do not have to see a GP before you attend therapy for vaginismus, but your therapist will often recommend you see a gynaecologist or pelvic floor physiotherapist alongside your treatment, to rule out any medical origins for your challenges. No GP referral is needed for sex therapy for vaginismus.
Is there a physical examination in sessions?
No. Vaginismus therapy is purely talk-based counselling where we discuss your challenges. Your sex therapist may recommend you explore some pleasurable touch-based exercises when you're ready to do so, in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Can my partner come to sessions, and what does it cost?
You can attend alone or with a partner. Individual sessions are $190 and couples sessions are $230, each for 50 minutes.
How long does vaginismus therapy take to treat sexual pain?
Each person is unique in how they respond to therapy. Clients will often spend a few sessions exploring their sexual desires and arousal, prior to commencing a few sessions on direct treatment to address the sexual pain. Some clients require ongoing or more long-term support to address deeply entrenched trauma connections or anxious thoughts. Many people may experience full sexual pleasure through regular treatment and commitment to home pleasure practices.
