Coping with Vestibulodynia and Its Impacts on the Identity of Jewish National Religious Women.

Abstract

This research aims to better understand the experiences of Jewish National Religious women who suffer from vestibulodynia, a medical condition characterized by pain during sexual intercourse. The study explores the distinctive challenges of these women, as they navigate the tension between expressions of sexuality in modern secular Western culture and that of religious Jewish Halacha. The study delves into perceptions of sexuality, religion, culture, and identity as effected by vestibulodynia. This qualitative research involved interviews with 15 married National Religious women aged 21-38 diagnosed with vestibulodynia. The study yielded four central themes: Isolation vs. Community; Recognition Within the Medical System; The Multifaceted Aspects of Female Identity; From Crisis to Growth. The research highlights the implications vestibulodynia can have on women coping with it, reflecting in reduced self- esteem, and challenges in female identity and the identity as a whole, in intimate relationships, and in family and cultural life. the study stresses the important role the partners have in coping with vestibulodynia. The research emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive care needed in women's health care services. It further stresses the positive impact of belonging to peers and the importance of open communication regarding sexuality, even in orthodox communities.