Not all health complaints are considered equal, with some of us forced to suffer in silence with our more embarrassing body issues. Dr Laurence Gerlis, of the U.K.’s largest independent GP practice samedaydoctor.org, is now on a mission to get people to talk about and understand life’s more awkward ailments.

In particular, Dr Gerlis is tackling vaginismus, a painful spasmodic contraction of the vagina in response to physical contact or pressure, especially during sexual intercourse.

“Vaginismus is the term used to describe recurrent or persistent involuntary tightening of muscles around the vagina whenever penetration is attempted,” Dr Gerlis explained to Cover Media. “This varies from woman to woman, with some unable to insert anything into their vagina, and others being able to insert a tampon but unable to have penetrative sex.”

Vaginismus can be distressing to go through, and sometimes leads to a loss of confidence by the sufferer and relationship problems. Dr Gerlis adds that in the most severe cases it can completely stop the sufferer’s sex life and prevent them from starting as family.

“However, it’s important to remember vaginismus is a treatable condition, ranging from the physical to the psychological,” the medical expert said. “Sex therapy can be recommended, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and counselling, alongside training the vagina with vaginal trainers (a smooth dome shape usually made of plastic).”

So don’t suffer in silence if you think you could have vaginismus. Visit your GP and talk about what’s going on, and before long you’ll be able to start your road to recovery.

© Cover Media