Viva Vaginismus
Vaginismus Assessment Tool
The Vaginismus Assessment Tool is designed to help individuals evaluate their symptoms
and determine if they may be experiencing vaginismus. This interactive tool aims to provide guidance on next steps based on the results, such as seeking professional help or accessing support groups. By introducing this tool to doctors, it can assist in early identification and appropriate referral for individuals with vaginismus.
Instructions:
Start by providing a brief overview of vaginismus, its symptoms, and its impact on sexual health and relationships. Explain that the assessment tool will consist of a series of questions related to physical symptoms, emotional experiences, and sexual difficulties. Encourage individuals to answer each question honestly and to the best of their ability. Assure participants that their responses will remain confidential and that the tool is intended for informational purposes only. Advise participants that the assessment tool is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment but can serve as a helpful starting point in understanding their symptoms.
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Assessment Questions:
Physical Symptoms:
1. Do you experience pain or discomfort during attempted vaginal penetration?
2. Do you have difficulty using tampons or undergoing gynecological examinations due
to pain or muscle tension?
3. Have you noticed involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles during penetration
attempts?
Emotional Experiences:
1. Do you feel anxious, fearful, or stressed when thinking about or attempting vaginal
penetration?
2. Do you avoid sexual activities or intimacy due to fear of pain or discomfort?
3. Have you experienced feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy related to your sexual
difficulties?
Sexual Difficulties:
1. Have you experienced difficulty achieving or maintaining arousal during sexual
activities?
2. Has vaginismus affected your sexual relationships or caused tension with your
partner?
3. Do you have challenges with orgasm or find it difficult to enjoy sexual pleasure?
The Vaginismus Assessment Tool aims to assist individuals in evaluating their symptoms and taking appropriate steps towards seeking help for vaginismus. By introducing this tool to doctors, it can contribute to early identification, appropriate referral, and improved support for individuals with vaginismus.
Results and Recommendations:
Based on the individual’s responses, provide a summary of their likelihood of experiencing vaginismus, such as low, moderate, or high. Offer recommendations for their next steps,which may include:
Low likelihood:
Suggest exploring additional resources and self-help techniques to address any mild symptoms. Provide information on relaxation exercises, pelvic floor exercises, and
lubricants that may be helpful.
Moderate likelihood:
Encourage seeking professional help from a healthcare provider who specializes in sexual health or a therapist experienced in treating vaginismus. Provide a list of recommended professionals or clinics.
High likelihood:
Strongly recommend seeking professional help as soon as possible. Emphasize the importance of early intervention and offer resources for finding specialized healthcare providers.