Biofeedback as an adjunct to psychotherapy in the treatment of vaginismus

This exploratory study examines the use of biofeedback as an adjunct to psychotherapy in the treatment of vaginismus. A set of six Sims-type graded EMG probes was constructed to provide biofeedback from the vaginal sphincter and was tested on a pilot sample of nulliparous women prior to this study. Five sequential cases of vaginismus from a clinic waiting list participated in the program. All five couples completed the program and all reported successful intercourse at its conclusion. The number of sessions devoted to biofeedback probe insertion was almost halved in comparison to previous experience with Sims dilators. Overall treatment duration was not shortened. At follow-up 6 months later, two couples reported pregnancy, one couple was having regular intercourse, and two couples had ceased intercourse. The authors conclude that biofeedback is an effective aid to learning muscle control, is acceptable to patients, and may increase the success rate by minimizing dropouts. The importance of follow-up is stressed.