While a lot of people are using Botox to iron out the creases above the neck, doctors say that some women can also benefit below the belt from the injection’s non-cosmetic effects.

Doctors are now conducting FDA-approved studies on whether or not Botox can help with severe cases of vaginismus, a painful spasm of the vaginal muscles that can make vaginal penetration difficult, painful or impossible. The condition has a wide variety of causes, ranging from scarring to anxiety.

“Almost to a patient, they say it’s like hitting a brick wall,” says a plastic surgeon involved in the clinical trials. “Most patients I treat are unable to consummate, unable to have a family.”

Patients are sedated and then given Botox injections at the entrance of the vagina.

From MSNBC:

When they wake up, the women find that they are relaxed enough to allow penetration and, soon, to have normal sex with their husbands or partners. [Dr.] Pacik has treated 78 patients so far and all but one have virtually been cured after a single session, he said.

“We’re like honeymooners,” said one patient, who hadn’t been able to have sex with her husband in a dozen years. “This is so exciting. This is what it should have been 30 years ago.”

Botox for your bits? Shot may smooth over sex problems [MSNBC]

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