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A Comparative Study of Sexual Function, Behavior, and Cognitions of Women with Lifelong Vaginismus

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Abstract

Vaginismus is classified as a sexual dysfunction, yet limited research is available on the sexual function and behavior of women with this condition. Comparing women with lifelong vaginismus to women with lifelong dyspareunia and women with no pain during intercourse, this study explored sexual function, anxiety, and behavior along with cognitions related to vaginal penetration. A total of 152 women completed an online survey that included a series of validated questionnaires. Main findings indicated that, relative to both comparison groups, women in the vaginismus group reported a more limited range of sexual behavior across the lifespan and more maladaptive cognitions related to fear of losing control of one’s body and the situation during penetration. Compared to the no-pain group, both symptomatic groups reported more difficulties across several indicators of sexual function, more limited sexual behavior in the past year and past month, and more maladaptive cognitions related to vaginal penetration. However, women with vaginismus reported more sexual desire and less difficulty with lubrication compared to women with dyspareunia. Numerous sexual problems extending beyond vaginal penetration difficulties were confirmed, suggesting a need for broader treatment approaches not limited to the experience of vaginal penetration. Results were discussed as they relate to the fear-avoidance model of vaginismus.

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Acknowledgments

This research was supported by a grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada to Elke D. Reissing.

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  1. School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, 136 Jean-Jacques Lussier (4010), Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada

    Rebecca A. Cherner & Elke D. Reissing

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  1. Rebecca A. Cherner
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  2. Elke D. Reissing
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Correspondence to Elke D. Reissing.

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Cherner, R.A., Reissing, E.D. A Comparative Study of Sexual Function, Behavior, and Cognitions of Women with Lifelong Vaginismus. Arch Sex Behav 42, 1605–1614 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-013-0111-3

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