empiricle research project
How do individuals with Vaginismus experience and make sense of cervical screening procedures? An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.
The research aims to better understand the difficulties faced and experiences (thoughts, emotions and behaviours) of individuals with Vaginismus in order to inform future cervical screening programmes.
If you are interested in taking part take a look at the study materials below:
Cervical Cancer
Each year, about 3,200 women in the UK are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 850 die from it. It is the 14th most common cancer affecting women in Britain, with women aged 30 to 34 most likely to receive a diagnosis.
Cervical Screening
Since the coronavirus pandemic, cervical screening attendance rates for women and other people with cervixes have been steadily declining, from 72.2% in 2020 to 68.4% in 2024, NHS England (2024) data shows.
Our Research
Individuals experiencing Vaginismus are seen to be avoiding and/ or delaying attending cervical screening appointments, putting them at risk of missing early detection of cervical cancer.
This research aims to understand the barriers and facilitators for these individuals in order to inform cervical screening providers to improve access to this vital screening initiative.
Interested in contributing?
If you woud like to contribute to this research project we would love to hear from you.
Join our mission: To create lasting positive change through accessible opportunities, meaningful partnerships, and research.
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