: a painful spasmodic contraction of the vagina

Examples of vaginismus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, certain conditions, including vaginismus and extremely heavy flow, can make menstrual cups a nonstarter. Elizabeth Anne Brown, New York Times, 30 Dec. 2024 There are multiple potential explanations for anorgasmia, including vaginismus, hormonal birth control, ageing and psychological factors. Cory Stieg, refinery29.com, 10 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

vagina + New Latin -ismus, suffix in names of ailments caused by involuntary muscle control (such as strabismus, trismus) — more at -ism

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vaginismus was in 1861

Dictionary Entries Near vaginismus

Cite this Entry

“Vaginismus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vaginismus. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

vaginismus

noun
: a painful spasmodic contraction of the vagina

More from Merriam-Webster on vaginismus

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