Vaginismus, a condition characterized by involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles due to strong fear of vaginal insertion, impact ≥6% of the female population and can make vaginal intercourse and medical exams difficult. This project explores virtual reality exposure (VRE) as a new treatment approach. Building on our two previous studies showing that VRE is feasible and effective in helping patients to gradually face feared sexual encounters in a virtual environment, we aim to implement our VRE protocol at the BC Centre for Vulvar Health (BCCVH). We will assess barriers/facilitators to implementation, clinician uptake, and patients' outcomes and engagement.
Diagnosis of vaginismus defined by a "marked fear or anxiety about vulvovaginal or pelvic pain in anticipation of, during, or because of vaginal penetration" (criterion from the DSM-5 definition of Genito-Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder)
Aged >19 y, of any sexual orientation
Fluent in English (psychoeducational materials and questionnaires delivered in English)
Normal or corrected-to-normal vision (to view the VR scenes during exposure)
Presence of: unprovoked vaginal pain
Vulvar skin condition (i.e., lichen sclerosus)
Epilepsy characterized by photosensitive seizures.