Psychotherapy High Wycombe Psychotherapy High Wycombe - Last updated 07 January 2026

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DSM-IV: Vaginismus

Women with this sexual dysfunction disorder experience otherwise unexplained recurrent or persistent involuntary contraction of the perineal muscles around the outer third of the vagina associated with penetration with any object.

Diagnostic criteria for 306.51 Vaginismus

A. Recurrent or persistent involuntary spasm of the musculature of the outer third of the vagina that interferes with sexual intercourse.

B. The disturbance causes marked distress or interpersonal difficulty.

C. The disturbance is not better accounted for by another Axis I disorder (e.g. Somatization Disorder) and is not due exclusively to the direct physiological effects of a general medical condition.

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Lifelong Type
Acquired Type

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Generalized Type
Situational Type

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Due to Psychological Factors
Due to Combined Factors

Based on the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition APA

Research sources

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The online Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists most of the major psychological disorders and illnesses and lists the criteria that must be fulfilled in order for a diagnosis to be made. This resource is not a substitute for proper professional psychiatric diagnosis.