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Sexual Pain Disorders

The sexual pain disorders have only two subclasses in DSM-IV: Vaginismus, mentioned in connection with sexual arousal disorders on this site, and Dyspareunia (which means pain during intercourse, either during penetration or as a result of thrusting). A diagnosis of Dyspareunia requires that the pain not be caused by Vaginismus or by lack of lubrication. Both males and females can be diagnosed with Dyspareunia. Obviously, the pain can disrupt sexual intercourse and relationships with the sex partner. Because this does not strike most people as a "mental" problem, most seek relief from a family physician rather than a mental health professional. Usually, no medical problem is found. There is little information about the prognosis for people with Dyspareunia, but an evaluation by a psychiatrist familiar with this type of problem is clearly an intelligent first step. The little evidence available indicates that the disorder is likely to persist if it is not treated.

Vaginismus, as noted in our discussion of sexual arousal disorders, is almost always curable; it involves involuntary, intense, spasmodic contraction of the muscles of the outer third of the vagina, making penetration impossible. 

Visit a web site that offers information and a directory of sex therapists. 

Last updated  12/19/03

 
     
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