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Sexual dysfunctions

Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder

Intense pain, fear or muscle tension before penetration, which makes it difficult or prevents it (including former vaginismus).

Common signs

Pain during sexInvoluntary muscle contractionFear and avoidance

Tips

For you

  1. Gynaecological and pelvic floor physiotherapy assessment
  2. Gradual exposure without pressure
  3. Sex therapy

For family and friends

  1. Never force anything: respect is the basis of treatment
  2. Explore other forms of intimacy

When to ask for help

  1. See a gynaecologist and a pelvic floor physiotherapist
  2. If the pain is intense or comes on suddenly

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. I feel pain during penetrative sex
2. My muscles tense up without me meaning them to
3. I'm afraid it will hurt
4. I avoid sex because of the pain
5. I find it hard to use tampons or have check-ups
6. It has been happening for months
7. It causes me distress or relationship problems
8. I feel guilty or frustrated
Also take the full relationship test →

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFree guide: CouplesFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Erectile disorderSexual dysfunctionsPremature ejaculationSexual dysfunctionsDelayed ejaculationSexual dysfunctionsFemale orgasmic disorderSexual dysfunctions

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.