Vaginismus · Berlin-Wilmersdorf
Involuntary Protective Response
The wish for closeness may be present—and the body may still close. At the conSenso® Practice in Berlin-Wilmersdorf, we support patients with vaginismus when touch, penetration or a gynaecological examination triggers tension, fear or pain.
This response is not intentional. It can occur even when closeness is desired, trust is present and the patient consciously wants to relax.
We consider the physical protective response together with the burdens connected to it. Existing gynaecological findings and ongoing treatments are included.
Some patients cannot use a tampon or can barely tolerate a gynaecological examination. For others, sexual intercourse is possible only with pain and intense tension—or not at all.
The response may be similarly strong in every situation or appear only under particular conditions.
The pelvic floor contracts, breathing pauses and the abdomen and thighs become firm. The jaw, shoulders and back may tense as well.
These responses often arise more quickly than they can be consciously influenced.
Safety and Self-Determination
Vaginismus is not a matter of insufficient willpower. Pressure, practising against resistance or the expectation of having to function can intensify the protective response.
Throughout our support, pace, boundaries and consent remain with the patient. Direct contact in the intimate area is not a prerequisite. Every step is discussed beforehand and can be changed or ended at any time.
The first aim is for the body to regain a sense of what is safe, appropriate and possible in the moment.
Sometimes the protective response develops after repeated pain, a difficult birth, surgery or distressing examinations. It may also occur together with endometriosis, vulvodynia or other pelvic symptoms.
If burning, stinging or other pain is also present, existing medical findings and possible physical causes are of course taken into account.
The desire for closeness may be present while the body responds defensively at the same time. This can create shame, disappointment, pressure and misunderstanding within a relationship.
These emotional consequences are not necessarily the cause. They may, however, become part of the burden and can be included where this is helpful for the patient.
conSenso® Practice 1 · Wilmersdorf
Support for vaginismus takes place at Pfalzburger Straße 43 in Berlin-Wilmersdorf.
There is no parallel waiting-room or treatment activity. Closeness, distance and every further step are discussed so that you remain able to decide at all times.
Complimentary introductory consultation
In the free personal consultation, you do not have to show anything or undergo a physical examination.
We discuss the situations in which the protective response appears, what you have already experienced and what you need for the setting to remain safe.
