Prevalence of Vaginismus in Reproductive Age Group: Observational Study

Background: Vaginismus is a multifaceted disorder encompassing increased muscle tension, pain, anxiety, and fear due to psychosocial perspectives which makes vaginal penetration impossible.Vaginismus has irreparable effects on self-identity.It also negatively impacts the quality of life.Aim: To find the prevalence of vaginismus in the female reproductive age group of 20-35 years.Materials and methods: The current observational study comprised 160 married females in the age group of 20-35 years residing in Belagavi city in Karnataka, India.Women were screened according to the criteria from a tertiary care hospital.Outcome measures: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition by the American Psychiatric Association was used to assess vaginismus.Results: Females who were sexually active were included in this study.Out of the total sample, 28% were reported with primary vaginismus and 30% with secondary vaginismus.There was no specific relation between age and vaginismus. Conclusion:The study concludes that vaginismus is a common disorder that is highly prevalent in the Indian population and women hesitate to seek medical attention regarding it.