Vaginismus is a condition in which the vaginal muscles involuntarily contract, making penetration painful and sometimes impossible. When we first see a vaginismus patient at the Center, we do a psychosocial assessment as well as a medical one. Frequently, though women are told that the condition is all in their heads or the result of …
Continue Reading“Staying Well with Guided Imagery.”
I highly recommend the book, “Staying Well with Guided Imagery,” by Belleruth Naperstek. Ms. Naperstek is a psychotherapist who has worked with patients of all kinds, from the “worried well” to the chronically ill. In her work as a therapist she began to use guided imagery tapes to help individuals work towards healing and health. …
Continue ReadingSeeing vaginismus everywhere.
My husband claims I see vaginismus everywhere. Okay. Maybe he’s right. Maybe I do…it kills me. When I see a woman who is totally avoidant of relationships I suspect she is fearful of penetration. When I see a young girl fearful of tampons, I suspect she is panicked at the idea of putting something inside. …
Continue ReadingThe unconsummated marriage/relationship.
Here is the most important thing to remember: NO ONE NEEDS TO LIVE WITH AN UNCONSUMMATED RELATIONSHIP. EVERYONE CAN BE HELPED! Really and truly. I promise you. So if you are sitting there thinking “I am the worst case ever. I can’t possibly do this, ” I’m here to let you know that it just …
Continue ReadingSexuality and religion.
At the Medical Center for Female Sexuality, I treat a lot of women who come from religious backgrounds. I see people from all kinds of religions and all different levels of religiosity. The thing that strikes me is that many of our world’s religions do not support sex before marriage. Many people have been told …
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