The common link between GI distress and vaginismus

The nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s stress response and maintaining overall health. A dysregulated nervous system can lead to increased stress levels and a variety of physical symptoms, including gastrointestinal (GI) distress and vaginismus. In this article, we will explore the connection between a dysregulated nervous system, low-lying stress, and these two conditions, as well as the possible link between GI distress and vaginismus.

The nervous system consists of two branches, the sympathetic and parasympathetic, that work together to regulate the body’s stress response. The sympathetic branch is responsible for the “fight or flight” response, which prepares the body for action in response to stress. The parasympathetic branch is responsible for the “rest and digest” response, which promotes relaxation and digestion. When the nervous system is in balance, these two branches work together to maintain overall health and well-being.

However, when the nervous system becomes dysregulated, it can lead to low-lying stress. Low-lying stress is a state of chronic stress that is not necessarily caused by a single major event or trauma, but rather by ongoing, everyday stressors. This type of stress can be particularly damaging to the body because it is often unrecognized and unaddressed, leading to a variety of physical symptoms.

Research suggests a link between a dysregulated nervous system and GI distress. The enteric nervous system (ENS), which controls the motility and secretion of the digestive tract, can be influenced by both the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the nervous system. Stress can activate the sympathetic branch and inhibit the parasympathetic branch, leading to decreased GI motility, altered secretion, and increased sensitivity to pain. Chronic stress can also lead to changes in the gut microbiota, which may further contribute to GI distress. Individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common GI disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel movements often have higher levels of stress and a dysregulated autonomic nervous system regulation.

Vaginismus is a condition that affects women and is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions of the pelvic floor muscles, leading to pain or difficulty with intercourse. Some research has suggested that women with vaginismus may have a dysregulated nervous system, with an overactive sympathetic branch and an underactive parasympathetic branch. This can lead to increased muscle tension in the pelvic floor muscles and decreased blood flow to the genital area, which may contribute to pain during intercourse.

Stress can also play a role in the development of vaginismus. Women with vaginismus may have elevated levels of low-lying stress or anxiety. Chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the nervous system, with an overall shift towards sympathetic activation. This can lead to increased muscle tension and altered blood flow in the pelvic area, contributing to the development of vaginismus.

While the relationship between GI distress and vaginismus is not yet fully understood, there are several possible mechanisms that may contribute to their co-occurrence. As discussed, both conditions may be influenced by a dysregulated nervous system and higher levels of stress. Another possible link lies in the pelvic floor itself. A hypertonic pelvic floor occurs when the muscles of the pelvic floor are overly contracted or tight, leading to pain and discomfort. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including difficulty with urination, pain during intercourse, and GI distress. A hypertonic floor can result from many life events, from child birth, high impact sports, and, yes, chronic stress, as the pelvis really does hold onto stress.

Based on my experience, I have noticed a link between high-functioning women and vaginismus and GI distress. High-functioning women are generally able to manage multiple responsibilities, demands, and challenges effectively throughout their everyday living. These women are usually able to push through stressful situations and manage emotions efficiently to meet the demands of their lives. However, many high-functioning women have developed inefficient coping mechanisms from properly addressing and processing the continual low-lying stress, often ignoring or suppressing emotions and neglecting self-care while moving from task to task. Overall, this leads to nervous system dysregulation, hypertonic pelvic floor muscles, and overactivation of the limbic system in the brain. I have found that generally, these are the women facing both vaginismus and GI distress. These are also the women who have a more difficult time finding relief from their symptoms using traditional treatment strategies. Which is why a comprehensive and holistic mind-body nervous system approach appears to be effective in helping women recover from both vaginismus and GI distress.

All in all, the nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s stress response and maintaining overall health. A dysregulated nervous system can lead to increased stress levels and physical symptoms, such as GI distress and vaginismus. Chronic stress can activate the sympathetic branch and inhibit the parasympathetic branch, leading to decreased GI motility, altered secretion, and increased sensitivity to pain. Women with vaginismus may have an overactive sympathetic branch and an underactive parasympathetic branch, leading to increased muscle tension in the pelvic floor muscles and decreased blood flow to the genital area, contributing to pain during intercourse. High-functioning women who have developed inefficient coping mechanisms for continual low-lying stress often face both vaginismus and GI distress. A comprehensive and holistic mind-body nervous system approach appears to be effective in helping women recover from both vaginismus and GI distress.

If you’re looking for relief from a variety of dysregulated body symptoms, nervous system regulation through a mind-body approach is a great place to start. Pain-free Intimacy offers a holistic and comprehensive 12-week mind-body approach to realigning your nervous system to allow for greater success in your vaginismus healing journey.

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