UCL Discovery
UCL home » Library Services » Electronic resources » UCL Discovery

The effectiveness and acceptability of a computerised guided self-help programme for vaginismus: a mixed methods design

Flanagan, E; (2014) The effectiveness and acceptability of a computerised guided self-help programme for vaginismus: a mixed methods design. Doctoral thesis (D.Clin.Psy), UCL (University College London). Green open access

[thumbnail of Thesis_submission_volume1_Flanagan_Redacted.pdf] PDF
Thesis_submission_volume1_Flanagan_Redacted.pdf

Download (1MB)

Abstract

Overview This volume is separated into three parts: • Part 1: Literature review. A systematic review and meta-analysis of twelve randomised controlled trials that examined the efficacy of psychological treatment for vaginal pain. The aim was to understand whether efficacy of treatment differed for vaginal pain defined as medical or psychiatric in aetiology. Differences and similarities in efficacy were examined on outcomes of pain and sexual function. Effectiveness of psychological treatment was found to be comparable regardless of aetiology, indicating that this distinction may not be helpful for informing treatment decisions. • Part 2: Empirical paper. A mixed methods study evaluated a new computerised programme for six women with vaginismus. Change in pain-related fear, penetration behaviour and pain intensity was quantitatively assessed. Interviews were used to qualitatively explore acceptability and change. Pain-related fear and pain intensity reduced over the course of the programme; successful penetration increased. The programme was experienced as convenient, gradual, and supportive, with moments of frustration at progress. The programme also had a positive influence on self-awareness, confidence, normalisation, and approach behaviours, with exposure attributed as the most difficult but important aspect of change. • Part 3: Critical appraisal. An appraisal of methodology used in the empirical study, discussing the potential biases encountered with research allegiance.

Type: Thesis (Doctoral)
Qualification: D.Clin.Psy
Title: The effectiveness and acceptability of a computerised guided self-help programme for vaginismus: a mixed methods design
Open access status: An open access version is available from UCL Discovery
Language: English
UCL classification: UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences > Faculty of Brain Sciences
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > School of Life and Medical Sciences > Faculty of Brain Sciences > Div of Psychology and Lang Sciences
URI: https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/1448569
Downloads since deposit
581Downloads
Download activity - last month
Download activity - last 12 months
Downloads by country - last 12 months

Archive Staff Only

View Item View Item