Women's Experiences of Vulvodynia: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Journey Toward Diagnosis



Shallcross, Rebekah, Dickson, Joanne M, Nunns, David, Taylor, Kate and Kiemle, Gundi
(2019) Women's Experiences of Vulvodynia: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Journey Toward Diagnosis. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR, 48 (3). pp. 961-974.

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Abstract

Vulvodynia is the experience of idiopathic pain characterized by burning, soreness, or throbbing in the external female genitalia or vulva and is estimated to be experienced by 4-16% of the female population, yet only half of women seek help regarding their symptoms. Of the women who do seek help, only around 2% obtain a diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to explore the experiences of women with vulvodynia on their journey toward diagnosis, by using semi-structured interviews and an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) methodology. Eight women were interviewed, and their experiences were analyzed and interpreted into three master themes, each with constituent sub-themes: (1) The Journey Is a Battle, (2) "What Is Vulvodynia?": Ambivalence Toward Diagnosis, and (3) Patriarchy, Women, and Sex. Overall, women perceived a healthcare system which was dismissive and shaming, with an inadequate knowledge of vulvodynia. This in turn impacted on women's psychological well-being. Psychological understanding, one-to-one therapy, and consultation and training for healthcare professionals may help to improve the psychological well-being of women with vulvodynia.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Vulvodynia, Vulval, vulvar pain, Interpretative phenomenological analysis
Depositing User: Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited: 20 Nov 2018 10:52
Last Modified: 19 Jan 2023 01:28
DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1246-z
Related URLs:
URI: https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3024972