Vajinismus Tedavisinde Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi Uygulamalarının İlişkinin İncelenme Tezinin İncelenmesi
Examination of the Thesis on the Application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Vaginismus and the Analysis of the Relationship

Summary/Abstract: This study examines the role and effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy practices in the treatment of vaginismus in light of the relevant literature. Vaginismus is a multidimensional sexual dysfunction characterized by fear, anxiety, expectation of pain, avoidance behaviours, and involuntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles during attempted vaginal penetration. In this study, the definition, clinical features, epidemiology, etiology, and treatment approaches of vaginismus are discussed, with particular emphasis on the role of cognitive behavioural therapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy is a structured psychotherapeutic approach that helps individuals recognize and restructure dysfunctional thoughts related to sexuality, the body, pain, and sexual intercourse while reducing avoidance behaviours. Studies in the literature indicate that cognitive behavioural therapy has high success rates in the treatment of vaginismus and that psycho education, relaxation exercises, systematic desensitization, gradual exposure, and cognitive restructuring are effective components of the therapeutic process. However, treatment success is not determined solely by individual symptoms; partner attitudes, sexual myths, cultural beliefs, perception of privacy, and the client’s readiness for therapy also play an important role. In conclusion, cognitive behavioural therapy is considered an effective, applicable, and evidence-based approach in the treatment of vaginismus. Nevertheless, the most successful outcomes are likely to be achieved through holistic interventions that address individual, relational, and socio-cultural factors together.

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