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Moreira MDF, Gamboa OL, Oliveira MAP. Mindfulness intervention effect on endometriosis-related pain dimensions and its mediator role on stress and vitality: a path analysis approach. Arch Womens Ment Health 2024; 27:45-55. [PMID: 37848766 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-023-01381-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis-related pain is supposedly mainly responsible for generating psychological stress and deteriorating the quality of life. However, the interaction between these factors has not been investigated, considering its multidimensional nature and through the path of effects of psychosocial approaches. The present study aims to investigate the effect of a brief mindfulness-based intervention (bMBI) on pain dimensions and its mediator role on psychological stress and QoL-Vitality improvement. A secondary analysis of a pilot randomized controlled trial using a series of parallel and serial mediators was carried out. The results showed that bMBI improves the sensory (B = -6.09 [-9.81, -2.52], β = -0.42) and affective (B = -3.40 [-5.02, -1.80], β = -0.47) pain. The bMBI effect on psychological stress reduction was mediated by these changes in sensory (B = -2.81 [-6.06, -0.41], β = -0.21) and affective (B = -1.97 [-5.07, -0.17], β = -0.15) pain. Serial sensory pain and psychological stress reduction (B = 2.27 [0.11, 5.81], β = -0.09) mediated the bMBI effect on quality of life vitality. Meditation training promotes additional improvement in affective and sensory pain characteristics through which psychological stress is reduced. The sensory pain dimension must be positively impacted in combination with psychological stress for the bMBI improves women's vitality. Adding a psychosocial intervention like meditation training to the standard treatment plan may be required for some women to achieve the needed changes to restore well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo de França Moreira
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Boulevard 28 de Setembro, 77, Vila Isabel, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20551-030, Brazil.
| | - Olga Lucia Gamboa
- EQness, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, A19 - Griffith Taylor Building, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Marco Aurelio Pinho Oliveira
- Department of Gynecology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Boulevard 28 de Setembro, 77, Vila Isabel, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20551-030, Brazil
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de C Williams AC, McGrigor H. A thematic synthesis of qualitative studies and surveys of the psychological experience of painful endometriosis. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:50. [PMID: 38238741 PMCID: PMC10795225 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02874-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a widespread problem in women of reproductive age, causing cyclical and non-cyclical pain in the pelvis and elsewhere, and associated with fatigue, fertility problems, and other symptoms. As a chronic pain problem, psychological variables are important in adjustment and quality of life, but have not been systematically studied. METHODS A systematic search of multiple databases was conducted to obtain surveys and qualitative studies of women's experience of pain from endometriosis. Surveys were combined narratively; qualitative studies were combined by thematic synthesis, and the latter rated for methodological quality. RESULTS Over 2000 records were screened on title and abstract, and provided 22 surveys and 33 qualitative studies from which accounts could be extracted of the psychological components of pain in endometriosis. Surveys mostly addressed quality of life in endometriosis, with poorer quality of life associated with higher levels of pain and of distress, but few referred to coherent psychological models. Qualitative studies focused rather on women's experience of living with endometriosis, including trajectories of diagnosis and treatment, with a few addressing meaning and identity. Thematic synthesis provided 10 themes, under the groupings of internal experience of endometriosis (impact on body, emotions, and life); interface with the external world (through self-regulation and social regulation); effects on interpersonal and social life, and encounters with medical care. CONCLUSIONS The psychological components of pain from endometriosis only partly corresponded with standard psychological models of pain, derived from musculoskeletal pain studies, with fewer fears about physical integrity and more about difficulties of managing pain and other symptoms in social settings, including work. Better understanding of the particular psychological threats of endometriosis, and integration of this understanding into medical care with opportunities for psychologically-based pain management, would substantially improve the experience and quality of life of women with painful endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C de C Williams
- Research Dept of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, Gower St, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Honor McGrigor
- Research Dept of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, Gower St, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
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McClish D, Okhomina V, Pascale A, Valrie C, Sisler I, Villella A, Smith W. Vaso-occlusive crisis pain intensity, frequency, and duration: which best correlates with health-related quality of life in adolescents and adults with sickle cell disease? Pain 2024; 165:135-143. [PMID: 37578485 PMCID: PMC10840919 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a randomized clinical trial, we studied 198 adolescents and adults aged 15+ with sickle cell disease. Interest was in assessing the relative strengths of the relationship of vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) pain domains of intensity, frequency, and duration, with health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Variation in psychosocial, physical function, and pain expression domains of HRQOL was partially explained by frequency, intensity, and duration of VOC pain, separately and together, over and above differences in age, sex, genotype, and organ system damage. However, no single domain measure accounted for more than an additional partial R2 of 12.5% alone. Vaso-occlusive crisis pain frequency explained the most variation, when simultaneously considering VOC intensity and duration, except for stiffness , where duration was most predictive. Yet VOC pain intensity, and even VOC duration, also contributed to variability in HRQOL. We recommend that for most purposes, because all 3 VOC pain domains contribute to variability in HRQOL, all 3 domains should be assessed and interventions should be targeted to improve all 3 domains to maximize HRQOL outcomes (Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02197845 ).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Angela Pascale
- Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Cecelia Valrie
- Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- VCU Institute for Inclusion, Inquiry, and Innovation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - India Sisler
- Division of Pediatric Haematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Anthony Villella
- Children's Hospital of King's Daughter, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Wally Smith
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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Bartley EJ, Alappattu MJ, Manko K, Lewis H, Vasilopoulos T, Lamvu G. Presence of endometriosis and chronic overlapping pain conditions negatively impacts the pain experience in women with chronic pelvic-abdominal pain: A cross-sectional survey. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 20:17455057241248017. [PMID: 38682290 PMCID: PMC11057341 DOI: 10.1177/17455057241248017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence of overlap between endometriosis and chronic pain conditions is emerging; however, little is known about how the pain experience differs based on the presence or absence of endometriosis. OBJECTIVES In a sample of women reporting chronic pelvic-abdominal pain (CPP), the aim of this study was to characterize differences in pain symptomatology between women with and without endometriosis and to examine the influence of chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) on pain among these two groups. DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study, based on an online survey. METHODS Participants (aged 18+ years) completed a survey collecting pain diagnoses and symptoms assessing pelvic pain severity, pain interference, and pain impact. Independent sample t-tests, chi-square, and multiple linear regression models were employed to analyze group differences in pain symptomatology and COPCs. RESULTS Of the 525 respondents with CPP, 25% (n = 133) reported having endometriosis. Women with endometriosis were younger at the onset of pelvic pain, relative to women without endometriosis (p = 0.04). There were no differences in age, race, ethnicity, or duration of pelvic pain between women with and without endometriosis. Women with endometriosis reported higher pelvic pain severity (+0.8, 95% CI = 0.4-1.1), pain interference (+5.9, 95% CI = 2.4-9.3), and pain impact (+1.9, 95% CI = 0.8-2.9). Endometriosis was associated with a higher number of COPCs (p = 0.003), with 25% (n = 33) of women reporting ⩾3 overlapping pain conditions compared with 12% (n = 45) of those without endometriosis. Women with endometriosis had a higher frequency of fibromyalgia (p < 0.001), chronic fatigue syndrome (p < 0.001), and temporomandibular disorder (p = 0.001). The number of COPCs was associated with higher pain severity, interference, and impact, independently of endometriosis. CONCLUSION Women with endometriosis experienced higher levels of pain-related burden and COPCs compared with those without endometriosis. Pain intensity, interference, and impact increased with a higher number of pain conditions regardless of endometriosis presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Bartley
- College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Meryl J Alappattu
- College of Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kelsey Manko
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Hannah Lewis
- Gynecology Section, Division of Surgery, Orlando Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Orlando, FL, USA
| | | | - Georgine Lamvu
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Gynecology Section, Division of Surgery, Orlando Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Orlando, FL, USA
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El-Hadad S, Lässer D, Sachs MK, Schwartz ASK, Haeberlin F, von Orelli S, Eberhard M, Leeners B. Dysmenorrhea in adolescents requires careful investigation of endometriosis-an analysis of early menstrual experiences in a large case-control study. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1121515. [PMID: 37693279 PMCID: PMC10491014 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1121515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recent evidence shows that endometriosis, a significant cause of infertility, may already present in adolescents. Dysmenorrhea, often leading to school absences, is a key symptom of the maturing menstrual cycle but also of endometriosis. However, it is often perceived as "normal" and left untreated. In adolescents, laparoscopy, the standard procedure to diagnose endometriosis, is performed particularly cautiously. To improve reproductive health in adolescents, we evaluate associations between early menstrual experiences and endometriosis. Methods Retrospective data on early menstrual experiences from 563 women with surgically/histologically verified endometriosis and from 563 age-matched controls were compared. Study participants were recruited in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. Information on menstrual experiences was collected via a structured questionnaire. Results The bivariate analysis showed that early menarche (p = 0.004), dysmenorrhea and negative memories of menarche (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with a diagnosis of endometriosis. After controlling for confounders in bivariate regression analysis occurrence of dysmenorrhea (p = <0.001, OR 5,74, 95% CI 3.82-7.22) especially with onset >3 years after menarche ((p = <0.001, OR 3.42, 95% CI 2.09-5.64) remained statistically significant predictors for diagnosis of endometriosis. Dysmenorrhea in mothers and mothers' perceived attitude towards menstruation were not associated with the occurrence of Endometriosis. Conclusions Dysmenorrhea and onset of dysmenorrhea at menarche or several years after it are strongly associated with the development of endometriosis. As mothers perceived attitudes towards menstruation show no significant association with their daughters' experiences, physical symptoms accompanying menarche and menstrual period pain in adolescents seem to be very reliable predictors in diagnosis of endometriosis. Therefore, dysmenorrhea in adolescents requires careful investigation of possible endometriosis, especially if it does not respond to medical management. Clinical trials registration The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier (NCT02511626).
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia El-Hadad
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daksha Lässer
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Maike-Katja Sachs
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexandra Sabrina Kohl Schwartz
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Felix Haeberlin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Canton Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Stephanie von Orelli
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Triemli Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Markus Eberhard
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Canton Hospital Schaffhausen, Schaffhausen, Switzerland
| | - Brigitte Leeners
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Salmeri N, Sinagra E, Dolci C, Buzzaccarini G, Sozzi G, Sutera M, Candiani M, Ungaro F, Massimino L, Danese S, Mandarino FV. Microbiota in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Endometriosis: Birds of a Feather Flock Together-A Review. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2089. [PMID: 37630649 PMCID: PMC10458414 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11082089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are chronic conditions affecting up to 10% of the global population, imposing significant burdens on healthcare systems and patient quality of life. Interestingly, around 20% of endometriosis patients also present with symptoms indicative of IBS. The pathogenesis of both these multifactorial conditions remains to be fully elucidated, but connections to gut microbiota are becoming more apparent. Emerging research underscores significant differences in the gut microbiota composition between healthy individuals and those suffering from either endometriosis or IBS. Intestinal dysbiosis appears pivotal in both conditions, exerting an influence via similar mechanisms. It impacts intestinal permeability, triggers inflammatory reactions, and initiates immune responses. Furthermore, it is entwined in a bidirectional relationship with the brain, as part of the gut-brain axis, whereby dysbiosis influences and is influenced by mental health and pain perception. Recent years have witnessed the development of microbiota-focused therapies, such as low FODMAP diets, prebiotics, probiotics, antibiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, designed to tackle dysbiosis and relieve symptoms. While promising, these treatments present inconsistent data, highlighting the need for further research. This review explores the evidence of gut dysbiosis in IBS and endometriosis, underscoring the similar role of microbiota in both conditions. A deeper understanding of this common mechanism may enable enhanced diagnostics and therapeutic advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Salmeri
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Emanuele Sinagra
- Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy;
| | - Carolina Dolci
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Giovanni Buzzaccarini
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Giulio Sozzi
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy; (G.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Miriam Sutera
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Contrada Pietra Pollastra Pisciotto, 90015 Cefalù, Italy; (G.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (C.D.); (G.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Federica Ungaro
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Luca Massimino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Silvio Danese
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Francesco Vito Mandarino
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy; (F.U.); (L.M.); (S.D.); (F.V.M.)
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Romaniuk A, Oniszczenko W. Resilience, anxiety, depression, and life satisfaction in women suffering from endometriosis: a mediation model. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:2450-2461. [PMID: 36998108 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2197649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
The main goal of this cross-sectional study was to assess the relationship between resilience and life satisfaction in women suffering from endometriosis and examine anxiety and depression as mediators in this relationship. The study sample included 349 Caucasian women aged from 18 to 56 years (M = 32.94; SD = 6.74) suffering from endometriosis surgically diagnosed and histologically confirmed. The life satisfaction level was assessed by the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Unspecific anxiety was evaluated using the General Anxiety Disorder-7 scale (GAD-7). Depression symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Resilience was measured using the Resilience Assessment Scale (SPP-25). Life satisfaction correlated negatively with anxiety and depression, but positively with resilience. Resilience correlated negatively with anxiety and depression. Anxiety and resilience accounted for 25% of the life satisfaction variance. Depression and resilience explained 35% of the variance in life satisfaction. Among resilience components, personal coping skills, tolerance of negative affect, tolerance of failures and treating life as a challenge, openness to new experiences and a sense of humour, and optimistic life attitude and ability to mobilize in difficult situations were the best predictors of life satisfaction. Anxiety and depression may serve as mediators in the relationship between resilience and life satisfaction. Our results suggested that resilience may be related to life satisfaction in women suffering from endometriosis directly and indirectly as mediated by anxiety and depression.
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van Stein K, Schubert K, Ditzen B, Weise C. Understanding Psychological Symptoms of Endometriosis from a Research Domain Criteria Perspective. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4056. [PMID: 37373749 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12124056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is currently the second most common gynecological disease and is associated with severe pain, vegetative impairment, and infertility. In association, there are considerable psychological symptoms that limit the quality of life of those affected. In this narrative review, the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework was utilized to display the different transdiagnostic processes involved in disease progression and maintenance in regard to psychosocial functioning. Using the RDoC framework, it becomes clear that immune/endocrinological dysregulation is interlocked with (pelvic) pain chronification processes and psychological symptoms such as depressive mood, loss of control, higher vigilance toward the onset or worsening of symptoms, social isolation, and catastrophizing. This paper will discuss and identify promising treatment approaches, in addition to medical care, as well as further research implications. Endometriosis can come with substantial psychosomatic and social burden, requiring more research to understand the interdependence of different factors involved in its chronic development pathway. However, it is already clear that standard care should be extended with multifaceted treatments addressing pain, as well as the psychological and social burden, in order to halt the cycle of aggravation of symptoms and to improve quality of life for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina van Stein
- Heidelberg University Hospital, Institute for Medical Psychology, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Behavioral and Cultural Studies, Ruprecht Karls-University, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Schubert
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Heidelberg University Hospital, Institute for Medical Psychology, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Behavioral and Cultural Studies, Ruprecht Karls-University, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia Weise
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, 35032 Marburg, Germany
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Lei Y, Fu X, Chen M, Yi Y, Mao P, Peng L, Qu Z. Dahuang—Taoren, a botanical drug combination, ameliorates adenomyosis via inhibiting Rho GTPases. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1089004. [PMID: 36969843 PMCID: PMC10035534 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1089004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Dahuang-Taoren (DT) is a classic combination of botanical drugs applied to treat pain-related diseases in ancient China. Today, DT is frequently applied for dysmenorrhea of adenomyosis (AM) in the clinic. Growing evidence indicates Rho GTPases may play an essential role in AM progression. However, the potential mechanism of DT on Rho GTPases in AM remains unclear.Methods: The expressions of Rho GTPases in the patients with AM were evaluated. Further, pituitary transplantation-induced AM mice and the primary AM endometrial stromal cells (AMESCs) were subjected to DT intervention.Results: The results revealed that the expressions of Rho GTPases were significantly upregulated in both AM patients and AM mice. The DT could reduce pathological infiltration, relieve hyperalgesia, and alleviate cytoskeleton remodeling in AM mice. Besides, the migration and invasion of AMESCs were markedly inhibited after exposure to DT.Discussion: These effects may be linked to the decreased Rho GTPases expression. The results may offer a novel explanation of DT against AM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Lei
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Xianyun Fu
- Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Minmin Chen
- Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Yongli Yi
- Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Ping Mao
- Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Li Peng
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang Central People’s Hospital, Yichang, China
- *Correspondence: Li Peng, ; Zhao Qu,
| | - Zhao Qu
- Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
- *Correspondence: Li Peng, ; Zhao Qu,
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10
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Sachs MK, Makieva S, Dedes I, Kalaitzopoulos DR, El-Hadad S, Xie M, Velasco A, Stiller R, Leeners B. Higher miscarriage rate in subfertile women with endometriosis receiving unbiopsied frozen-warmed single blastocyst transfers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1092994. [PMID: 37123402 PMCID: PMC10140404 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1092994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Assisted reproductive technology treatment is recommended to overcome endometriosis-associated infertility but current evidence is controversial. Endometriosis is associated with lower antral follicle count (AFC) and oocyte yield but similar clinical outcomes compared to controls. Unaffected ovarian stimulation response and embryological outcomes but lower clinical pregnancy and live birth rates and higher miscarriage rates have been reported, implying direct impact on endometrial receptivity. With evidence emerging on the benefit of frozen-warmed and blastocyst stage transfer, we investigated ART outcomes in endometriosis using homogeneous case-control groups. Methods: This is a retrospective observational case-control study including n = 66 frozen-warmed unbiopsied single blastocyst transfers of patients with endometriosis and n = 96 of women exhibiting idiopathic sterility. All frozen-warmed transfers followed artificial endometrial preparation. Results: In control women, the mean number of oocytes recovered at oocyte pick up was higher compared to women with endometriosis (15.3 ± 7.1 vs. 12.7 ± 5.2, p = 0.025) but oocyte maturation index (mature oocytes/total oocytes at oocyte pick up) was significantly higher for endometriosis (48.2% vs. 34.0%, p = 0.005). The same was shown for the subgroup of 44 endometriosis patients after endometrioma surgery when compared with controls (49.1% vs. 34.0%, p = 0.014). Clinical pregnancy rate was not higher in endometriosis but was close to significance (47.0% vs. 32.3%, p = 0.059) while live birth rate was comparable (27.3% vs. 32.3%, p = 0.746). Miscarriage rate was higher in the endometriosis group (19.7% vs. 7.3%, p = 0.018). A significantly higher AFC was observed in the control group in comparison with the endometriosis group (16.3 ± 7.6 vs. 13.4 ± 7.0, p = 0.014). Live birth rate did not differ when comparing all endometriosis cases (p = 0.746), ASRM Stage I/II and Stage III/IV (p = 0.348 and p = 0.888) with the control group but the overall pregnancy rate was higher in ASRM Stage I/II (p = 0.034) and miscarriage rate was higher in ASRM Stage III/IV (p = 0.030) versus control. Conclusion: Blastocyst transfers in women with endometriosis originate from cycles with lower AFC but higher share of mature oocytes than in control women, suggesting that endometriosis might impair ovarian reserve but not stimulation response. A higher miscarriage rate, independent of blastocyst quality may be attributed to an impact of endometriosis on the endometrium beyond the timing of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. K. Sachs
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: M. K. Sachs,
| | - S. Makieva
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - I. Dedes
- Department of Gynaecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - D. R. Kalaitzopoulos
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Gynaecology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S. El-Hadad
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M. Xie
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A. Velasco
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - R. Stiller
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - B. Leeners
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Sundström FTA, Lavefjord A, Buhrman M, McCracken LM. Assessing Psychological Flexibility and Inflexibility in Chronic Pain Using the Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory (MPFI). THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022; 24:770-781. [PMID: 36442815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Psychological flexibility (PF) is a model of well-being and daily functioning that is applied to chronic pain, and is the model behind Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). However, studies of PF in chronic pain are limited by the lack of a single measure capturing all facets. The Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory (MPFI) assesses all facets of PF and psychological inflexibility (PI) and could remedy this problem. The current study employs this measure. Adult participants with chronic pain (N = 404) were recruited online and completed the MPFI, other validated measures of PF/PI, and measures of pain, work and social adjustment, and depression, at two time points. The reliability, factor structure, and validity of the MPFI were assessed. Confirmatory factor analysis results demonstrated a good model fit for the proposed factor-and subscale structure. Correlations between MPFI and theoretically similar measures were moderate to strong, and correlations with pain intensity, pain interference, work-and social adjustment, and depression, were small to large. In this first examination of the potential utility of the MPFI within a chronic pain population, we found it to be valid and reliable. It should be noted that the MPFI was less predictive of outcomes compared with more established measures in most cases. Despite this, results from the wide range of variables available from the MPFI highlights the potential importance of aspects of PF and PI not previously emphasized, including the greater predictive utility of the inflexibility facets. Further use and study of the MPFI is recommended. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05050565 PERSPECTIVE: This article presents a comprehensive examination of a self-report measure assessing all facets of psychological flexibility and inflexibility, in a chronic pain sample. The results support the role of facets not previously emphasized. Comprehensive assessment of PF and PI appears possible and is recommended depending on research questions being asked.
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Gao Y, Ji W, Lu M, Wang Z, Jia X, Wang D, Cao P, Hu C, Sun X, Wang Z. Systemic pharmacological verification of Guizhi Fuling decoction in treating endometriosis-associated pain. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 297:115540. [PMID: 35870685 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Guizhi Fuling decoction (GZFL decoction) is a famous formula in the Synopsis of the Golden Chamber, which has a long history in treating endometriosis. However, its exact mechanism remains unclear. AIM OF STUDY This study aims to explore the mechanism of GZFL decoction in treating endometriosis, especially in alleviating endometriosis-associated pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS A combination of system pharmacology and pharmacodynamics was used to explore the specific mechanism of GZFL decoction in the treatment of endometriosis-associated pain. First, the TCMSP database was used to search the components of the GZFL decoction; the parameter index was set as oral bioavailability (OB) ≥ 30% and drug-likeness (DL) ≥ 0.18, while the active ingredients of the drug were screened out. The disease targets of endometriosis were obtained from the TTD, OMIM, Genecards, and DisGeNET databases; the keyword was "endometriosis pain". Network construction and analysis were performed using Cytoscape 3.7.2 software; the David database was used to enrich and analyze the pathways for alleviating endometriosis pain after GZFL decoction treatment. In addition, the network results were verified using experimental animal and cell research. RESULTS The results showed the following targets: 76 for the effective chemical components in the prescription, 1329 for disease pain, and 278 for the intersection of drugs and endometriosis pain. The enrichment results for these targets showed that the TNF-PI3K/Akt pathway exhibited research significance. In endometriosis rat models, the GZFL decoction reduced the volume of lesions and relieved pain symptoms. It also reduced the serum levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α as well as their expression in the lesion tissues. The GZFL decoction also suppressed the activation of PI3K/Akt downstream signaling proteins. CONCLUSIONS GZFL decoction could reduce the volume of lesions, suppress inflammation, and decrease the sensitivity to pain in endometriosis rat models through inhibiting PI3K/Akt pathway. This study provides a possible target for traditional Chinese medicine in treating endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenjing Ji
- School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Man Lu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiheng Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xurui Jia
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dawei Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Cao
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunping Hu
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Sun
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Zhigang Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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Determinants of Pain-Induced Disability in German Women with Endometriosis during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148277. [PMID: 35886130 PMCID: PMC9320034 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: The main aim of this research was to examine the factors leading to pain-induced disability by assessing the impact of demographic, endometriosis-specific, pandemic-specific, and mental health factors. (2) Methods: Women with endometriosis who attended online support groups were invited to respond to an online survey during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. The Pain Disability Index (PDI) was employed to assess disability-related daily functioning. Independent predictors of pain-induced disability were determined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. (3) Results: The mean PDI score of the study population was 31.61 (SD = 15.82), which was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than that reported in a previously published normative study of the German population. In the present study, a high level of pain-induced disability, as defined by scores equal to or higher than the median of the study population, older age (OR 1.063, 95% CI 1.010−1.120, p = 0.020), dysmenorrhea (OR 1.015, 95% CI 1.005−1.026, p = 0.005), dysuria (OR 1.014; 95% CI 1.001−1.027, p = 0.029), lower back pain (OR 1.018, 95% CI 1.007−1.029, p = 0.001), and impaired mental health (OR 1.271, 95% CI 1.134−1.425, p < 0.001) were found to be independent risk factors. Pandemic-specific factors did not significantly influence the pain-induced disability of the participants in this study. (4) Conclusions: The level of pain-induced disability was significantly higher among the women with endometriosis than among women in the normative German validation study. Our findings identified risk factors for experiencing a high level of pain-induced disability, such as demographic and specific pain characteristics. Pandemic-specific factors did not significantly and independently influence the pain-induced disability during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Impaired mental health negatively influenced functioning during daily activities. Thus, women with endometriosis should be managed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to prevent negative effects of pain-induced disability on their quality of life.
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