Vaginismus and the desire for a child

This article presents a review of theories on vaginismus and methods used in the treatment of women and couples suffering from this condition. The point is made that not all patients experience non-consummation as a sexual problem. Sometimes non-coital sexual alternatives are fully gratifying to the couple and the desire for a child is their only reason for seeking treatment. Consequently, consummation is neither the one and only treatment goal, nor sex therapy the only method. Artificial insemination with the husband's semen (AIH), performed by the couple themselves, is an acceptable alternative for some patients.In addition, the necessity of performing a gynaecological examination to confirm the diagnosis is discussed. The author concludes that in most cases examination is not essential in the diagnostic phase.