Abstract
ObjectivesThe study objectives are 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 sensory processing disorder (SPD) are present and to investigate participants’ experience of participating in a sensory-based home programme.MethodsA descriptive two-phased study design will be used. Phase one is a quantitative, cross sectional non-experimental descriptive study, using the Adolescent/Adult Sensory History (ASH) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales (HADS) to obtain data from purposive sampling. Phase two is an exploratory qualitative study involving participants who were identified with SPD in phase one. They will participate in a sensory-based home programme and their experience thereof will be established during semi-structured interviews.OutcomesDescriptive studies are known to be useful in planning health services and to develop hypotheses for future testing. This study could improve practitioners’ understanding of GPPPD and SPD and make alternative, non-invasive, non-pharmacological treatment options available to better assist these patients. The study could further clarify the role of the occupational therapist in sexuality. Exploring participants’ anxiety has important implications for treatment protocols in occupational therapy and assisting in describing the signs and symptoms of GPPPD.
Highlights
The role of sexuality is often ignored in occupational therapy
Results obtained on the Adult Sensory History (ASH) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales (HADS)-A will be transferred to Excel for each participant and to an Excel summary sheet for each instrument
Once the study has been completed, the data will be stored in the University library’s research repository. This is to our knowledge the first study investigating the sensory processing patterns of women diagnosed with genito-pelvic pain/ penetration disorder (GPPPD)
Summary
The role of sexuality is often ignored in occupational therapy. Literature regarding sensory processing and female sexual dysfunction, genito-pelvic pain/ penetration disorder (GPPPD), is virtually non-existent. Sexuality falls into the performance of activities of daily living (ADL) as well as the fulfilment of various roles. Dysfunction in this performance area is of concern to occupational therapists, as it may affect a client’s occupational performance, activity participation and well-being [1]. A recent study [6] found pain sensitivity to be related to over-responsivity in a person with sensory modulation disorder (SMD), a subcomponent of SPD
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
