Sensory Processing Dysfunction and Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Women share their Experiences of Participating in a Sensory-Based Home Program

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/

Abstract

Introduction: Sensory processing dysfunction (SPD) has only recently been

described in women with genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD).

However, female sexual pain is a virtually unknown area of practice for occupational

therapists providing intervention for adults with SPD.

Aim: To describe the experiences of women with GPPPD with identified sensory

processing dysfunction (SPD) who followed a sensory-based home programme.

Methods: Purposive, non-probability sampling was used to recruit participants

for the qualitative arm of the study after they presented with SPD in the quantitative

part of the study. Semi-structured individual interviews were used to

gather information and sufficient information power was reached after five

participants were interviewed. Data were analysed descriptively using inductive

thematic and saliency analyses.

Results: Two themes were identified. Theme one: Changes experienced after

participating in a sensory-based home programme, reflected increased insight

into SPD (allowing participants to identify sensory triggers) and intra-personal

changes (increased tolerance of sensory stimuli, feelings of control and I can

breathe again). Theme two: Coping strategies employed by women with SPD

and GPPPD, included sensory seeking, changes to home and work environments,

positive reinterpretation/growth, acceptance, and socio-emotional

support (you’re not the only one. There are plenty of us out there.).

Conclusion: A sensory-based home programme, catering to specific sensory

profiles is beneficial as a non-invasive occupational therapy intervention approach

(based on sensory integrative therapy) for women with both SPD and

GPPPD.

Implications for occupational therapy:

• SPD in the context of sexual pain is an emergent field in occupational

therapy, thus occupational therapists need to expand service-delivery to

this population and other practitioners such as gynaecologists must be

alerted to occupational therapy as a non-invasive, and non-pharmaceutical

intervention option for patients.

• Contribute to the knowledgebase of sensory integration in the adult population.

• Improve the occupational therapist’s role in sexuality.

• Emphasize the importance of insight as part of a treatment programme

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Author Biographies

  • Matty Van Niekerk, University of the Witwatersrand
    Qualifications: B Proc (UFS), B Arb (UP), Dip Voc Rehab (UP) MSc Med (Bioethics & Health Law) (Wits)Lecturer, Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand
  • Elsie Labuschagne, University of the Witwatersrand

    Qualifications: B OT (UFS), MSc OT (WITS)

    Occupational Therapist, Pirvate Practice

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Published

05-04-2023

How to Cite

Sensory Processing Dysfunction and Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Women share their Experiences of Participating in a Sensory-Based Home Program. (2023). South African Journal of Occupational Therapy, 53(1), 31-43. https://doi.org/10.17159/
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