Vaginismus is an involuntary spasm of the muscles surrounding the vagina, and this contraction can be so intense that it prevents penetration. This condition is a type of mental dysfunction whose somatization (physical manifestation) is on the part of the reproductive system. Vagnism usually occurs immediately before sex or when realizing that some object is about to enter the vagina. The condition occurs as a secondary, acquired reflex as a result of a past unpleasant experience of repeated penetration causing pain. Thus, when attempting a more intimate relationship, the vagina responds with an involuntary spasm. In some cases, there is a specific phobia about penetration, such as a fear that the vagina is too small/shallow or that it will be hurt during sex. Of course, vaginismus can be secondary to experiencing pain during sex. Conditions that lead to painful sex (dyspareunia) are, for example, infections (herpes, recurrent candidiasis or pelvic inflammatory disease), vestibulitis, atrophic vaginitis in postmenopausal women with a deficiency of the female sex hormone estrogen, vaginal trauma, epiosotomy or radiation therapy in the intimate/ the inguinal region. Lack of desire for penetration and sex, on the other hand, can be a symptom of a systemic disease such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injury. The cause of the involuntary contraction of the muscles around the vagina can be as simple as not having enough lubrication. Vaginismus can also be a sign of a dysfunctional relationship with a partner or as a protective reflex due to a bad memory of an examination with a clumsy or rude gynecologist. The incidence of this condition is less than 1% of all women of sexually active age. Vaginismus, however, reaches a 22% incidence among women with mental health problems. NEWS_MORE_BOX Complaints of vaginismus come from both women themselves and their partners. They range from intolerance of even possible, hypothetical penetration, through the pain of a single finger inserted to the more elusive discomfort of a gynecological examination with a speculum. Some women, however, would feel anxious to share exactly these symptoms, so questions from the gynecologist in this direction could help the better condition of the woman. Therapy for vaginismus is strictly individual. A conversation focused on marital status, sexual practices, and the relationship with the partner is very important to understand whether vaginismus is primary, secondary, a symptom, or a sign of problems in one’s personal life. The first step is to encourage the woman to replace sanitary napkins with tampons. Another approach that is advised is for the woman to start studying her external genitalia and vagina with her own hands. During a gynecological examination with a speculum, the woman may be allowed to hold the instrument or the doctor’s hand to create the feeling that she is in control of the situation.Exercises to relax or contract the pelvic floor muscles are another approach. They teach the woman to feel her muscles and after a while she begins to control them herself and decide when to contract. Once she can tolerate her own hands around her vagina and can contract her pelvic floor muscles on her own, the next step is to try inserting a finger from her own hand. Using a lubricant can help. The process of relaxing and passing vaginismus is slow and requires patience, but when the techniques are applied correctly, the success rate is about 72-100%. Unfortunately, for some women, vagnism is too resistant and other measures such as couples therapy or personal psychological therapy would be necessary.