Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia is characterised by chronic discomfort of the vulva region without a current infection. The vulva is the external female genitalia and protects the urethral and vaginal openings. The muscles of the pelvic floor often have increased tone in women with vulvodynia, and this can accentuate the pain of intercourse. Painful intercourse (dysparunia) is a common complaint of women with vulvodynia.
Vaginismus
Vaginismus describes the involuntary contraction of the muscles of the pelvic floor. In the attempt to insert an object (tampon, penis, speculum for pap smear) into the vagina the muscles reflexively spasm. This can make penetration difficult, painful and sometimes impossible.
Dyspareunia
Dyspareunia is the term used to describe pain before, during or after vaginal intercourse. There are many causes of pain, including lack of lubrication, infection, illness, or tight pelvic floor muscles. Stress and anxiety are known to make it worse. A physiotherapist can diagnose the cause behind the pain and develop a treatment strategy.