“Beyond The Pain : Evidence Based Interventions For Vaginismus - A Literature Review”

Aysha Jaleel; Gautham A S; Srujana Kona; Shwetha S S

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i01.66707

“Beyond The Pain : Evidence Based Interventions For Vaginismus - A Literature Review”

Author(s)	Ms. Aysha Jaleel, Dr. Gautham A S, Dr. Srujana Kona, Dr. Shwetha S S
Country	India
Abstract	Title: “Beyond The Pain : Evidence Based Interventions For Vaginismus - A Literature Review” ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Vaginismus is a sexual dysfunction marked by involuntary tightening of the vaginal and pelvic floor muscles, leading to pain, fear, and avoidance of penetration or gynaecological examination. It can affect surrounding muscles like the gluteals and abdominals in severe cases. Despite its impact on physical and emotional well-being, vaginismus is often underdiagnosed, particularly in India, due to stigma and limited awareness. AIM To review and analyze existing literature on the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions and their psychological impact in the management of vaginismus. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, SpringerLink, MTPRehab Journal, and JSAFOG, covering publications from 2014 to 2025. From the identified literature, studies directly addressing these interventions were reviewed, with five RCTs and one controlled clinical trial forming the core of the analysis. RESULTS Across all studies (n = 246; 122 experimental, 124 control), physiotherapy interventions—therapist-guided exposure (n = 69), pelvic floor relaxation (n = 33), biofeedback with dilator therapy (n = 16), and dilator therapy alone (n = 16) significantly improved sexual function (FSFI, p < 0.05). Psychological therapies (cognitive-behavioral therapy, counseling, couple-based therapy) in 112 participants reduced fear, anxiety, and maladaptive cognitions (VPCQ, p < 0.01). Combined physiotherapy and psychological interventions produced the most comprehensive benefits. CONCLUSION Physiotherapy improves sexual function, while psychological therapies alleviate fear and anxiety. An integrated approach offers the greatest benefit by addressing both physical and emotional factors in vaginismus management.
Keywords	Biofeedback, Pelvic floor Relaxation, Sexual Pain Disorder, Vaginal Dilator, Vaginismus.
Field	Medical / Pharmacy
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 1, January-February 2026
Published On	2026-01-17
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i01.66707

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“Beyond The Pain : Evidence Based Interventions For Vaginismus - A Literature Review”

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