Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Vaginismus
(VIVID 3 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
Vaginismus, a condition characterized by involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles due to strong fear of vaginal insertion, impact ≥6% of the female population and can make vaginal intercourse and medical exams difficult. This project explores virtual reality exposure (VRE) as a new treatment approach. Building on our two previous studies showing that VRE is feasible and effective in helping patients to gradually face feared sexual encounters in a virtual environment, we aim to implement our VRE protocol at the BC Centre for Vulvar Health (BCCVH). We will assess barriers/facilitators to implementation, clinician uptake, and patients' outcomes and engagement.
Who Is on the Research Team?
Lori Brotto
Principal Investigator
The University of British Columbia
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for women diagnosed with vaginismus, a condition where pelvic muscles tighten involuntarily due to fear of vaginal insertion. Participants should be seeking treatment at the BC Centre for Vulvar Health and willing to try virtual reality therapy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy
Trial Overview
The study tests virtual reality exposure therapy, where participants gradually face their fears in a safe, simulated environment using VR technology. The goal is to see how well this approach works when used in real clinical settings.
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
The investigators designed the VRE protocol based on our two studies: one proof-of-concept study, and a second study measuring VRE efficacy (both manuscripts under review). We found our VRE protocol to be highly feasible, usable, satisfying, and to lead to significant improvements in our outcomes focused on ease of vaginal insertion and associated vaginal pain. Participants will take part in a one-time 120-minute session, in addition to standard clinical care at the BCCVH, and complete study questionnaires before the VRE session and at follow-up time points to evaluate clinical outcomes. The VRE session will adhere to 3 key principles: (i) Exposure is prolonged; patients view a sexual scene multiple times; (ii) Treatment proceeds gradually, with the sexual activities depicted moving from non-penetrative (low fear) to penetrative (high fear); and (iii) Exposures are repeated, with participants re-watching the videos until their fear response has habituated.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of British Columbia
Lead Sponsor
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