Effect of Virtual Reality Application on Perceived Pain, Fear, Anxiety and Women's Satisfaction During First Gynecological Examination

Background: A typical part of a physical examination is a pelvic examination. Virtual reality (VR) is one of the most important technical developments in recent years. It can be used to manage invasive treatments that are uncomfortable and to reduce pain, anxiety, and fear, especially during the initial gynecological checkup. Aim: To evaluate effect of virtual reality application on perceived pain, fear, anxiety and women's satisfaction during first gynecological examination. Method: A quasi-experimental design was conducted in this study. The study was conducted at the outpatient gynecology clinic of El-Salam Hospital and six health care centers in Port Said City: El-Elag Eltabeey, El-Tawniat, Bank Elescan, El- Arab, El Gawhara, and Ali Ebn Taleb centers (affiliated to General Authority of Health Care). A purposive sample of 150 women undergoing first gynecological examination was included and assigned into two equal groups (75 each) based on flow rate. Four tools were used to collect relevant data: A structured interviewing schedule sheet, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), State Anxiety Inventory (SAI), and women satisfaction questionnaire. Results: All of the studied women were satisfied with use of VR and flexibility to meet their needs making them feel comfortable during pelvic examination