Treatment of Sexual Disorders with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy and Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study on a Sample of Patients with Genito-Pelvic Pain Disorder

The combined therapy saw substantial benefits, highlighting integrating psychophysical approaches in treating sexual pain disorders.

Article Abstract

“This study examined the effectiveness of combining eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy with pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) in treating female sexual pain disorder (genito-pelvic pain and penetration disorder). A total of 15 women aged 25 to 59 underwent 22 to 36 EMDR and 15 to 24 PFR sessions. Before treatment, low sexual interest and high pain levels were prevalent. Results indicated significant improvements in sexual interest, arousal, orgasm, partner relationship, lubrication, and symptomatology. Post-treatment, 87% reported increased sexual desire, and 73% experienced high arousal intensity. Orgasm frequency and satisfaction improved, with 87% reporting no difficulty. Pain during and after penetration decreased significantly and sexual satisfaction increased. The combined therapy demonstrated substantial benefits, highlighting the importance of integrating psychophysical approaches in treating sexual pain disorders. Future studies should include larger samples and control groups to validate these findings.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Isola, E., Carvalho Silva, R., D’Ario, D., Franzese, R., Perusi, G., & Minelli, A. (2025). Treatment of Sexual Disorders with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy and Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study on a Sample of Patients with Genito-Pelvic Pain Disorder. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 19, Article 0002. http://www.doi.org/10.34133/jemdr.0002

About the Journal

The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR, and their application to clinical practice. The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is the Official Publication of the EMDR International Association.