Effects of relaxation exercise combined with electroacupuncture on pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation in primary vaginismus: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background and purpose Primary vaginismus, characterized by involuntary pelvic floor muscle hypertonicity, causes significant pain, anxiety, and relationship disruptions. Pelvic floor dysfunction in vaginismus can be addressed through neuromuscular rehabilitation strategies, including biofeedback, relaxation, and electrotherapeutic modalities. This randomized, single-blind clinical trial explored a combined treatment of relaxation exercise and electroacupuncture therapy. Material and methods Sixty women aged 25–35 with primary vaginismus were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A received electroacupuncture on sacral and lumbar acupoints (BL23, BL33, BL34, BL35) plus relaxation training. In contrast, Group B received only relaxation training. Over four weeks, pelvic floor muscle tone and sexual function were assessed using biofeedback perineometry and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Results Group A showed a 50% reduction in pelvic floor muscle tension (69.95 ±0.37 to 34.73 ±0.63 mmHg, p<0.001), outperforming Group B (70.18 ±0.44 to 57.09 ±1.38 mmHg). Sexual function scores in Group A improved significantly (17.24 ±0.75 to 34.98 ±0.49, p<0.001) compared to Group B (17.13 ±0.81 to 24.08 ±0.81). Conclusion The study highlights the synergistic benefits of electroacupuncture and relaxation exercise in treating primary vaginismus, particularly in conservative communities where cultural taboos hinder treatment-seeking. These findings suggest that integrating these therapies can effectively address this condition, offering a new treatment protocol for medical professionals and researchers.