Sensory processing in women diagnosed with genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder
Date
2020
Authors
Labuschagne, Elsie Susanna
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Abstract
Introduction: The role of sexual functioning is often ignored in occupational therapy
and literature regarding sensory integration and processing and female sexual
dysfunction is virtually non-existent. Current multi-disciplinary intervention
approaches for female sexual dysfunction do not include occupational therapy and
intervention may be rendered ineffective, or actually worsen the condition if the
person has sensory processing dysfunction (SPD).
Aim: The study objectives were to describe the sensory processing patterns of
women diagnosed with genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD), to explore
the level of anxiety when both GPPPD and SPD are present and to investigate
participants’ experience of participating in a sensory-based home program (SBHP).
Methods: A descriptive two-phased study design was used. Phase one consisted of a
quantitative, cross sectional nonexperimental descriptive study, using the
Adolescent/Adult Sensory History (ASH) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression
Scales (HADS) to obtain data from purposive sampling. Phase two consisted of an
exploratory qualitative study involving participants who were identified with SPD in
Phase one. They participated in a SBHP and their experience thereof were
established during semi-structured interviews.
Results: Phase one: Quantitative descriptive analyses indicated that the majority
(79.5%; n=35) of participants presented with SPD requiring further investigation
and/or intervention for SPD. Phase two: Two themes emerged from the qualitative
data: “Changes experienced after participating in a SBHP”; and “Coping strategies
employed by women with SPD & GPPPD”.
The study identified SPD as an alternative factor in female sexual dysfunction,
specifically GPPPD. Participants found a SBHP, catering to specific
needs/personalities beneficial as a non-invasive, non-pharmacological intervention
approach for women who suffer from both SPD and GPPPD. The study further
emphasises the role of the occupational therapist in sexuality.
Ethical clearance was obtained from the Human Research Ethics Committee
(Medical) at the University of the Witwatersrand with clearance certificate number:
M170829 (Appendix A
Description
A research report submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of Master of Science in Occupational Therapy to the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020