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Calafiore D, Marotta N, Curci C, Agostini F, De Socio RI, Inzitari MT, Ferraro F, Bernetti A, Ammendolia A, de Sire A. Efficacy of Rehabilitative Techniques on Pain Relief in Patients With Vulvodynia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Phys Ther 2024; 104:pzae054. [PMID: 38564267 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzae054] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vulvodynia is a chronic clinical condition characterized by provoked or non-provoked vulvar pain for at least 3 months of unknown etiology. The onset of vulvodynia involves a complex interplay of peripheral and central pain mechanisms, such as pelvic floor muscle and autonomic dysfunction, and interpersonal factors. A stepwise approach of pelvic floor physical therapy as medical management is suggested. In this scenario, by this meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of rehabilitation interventions in patients with vulvodynia. METHODS On October 13, 2022, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials that assessed the efficacy of the rehabilitative approach to pain during intercourse in patients with vulvodynia. The quality assessment was performed with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. The trial registration number is CRD42021257449. At the end of the search, 9 studies were included for a total of 332 patients. A pairwise meta-analysis was performed to highlight the efficacy of rehabilitative approaches for reducing pain during intercourse, as measured with a visual analog scale or a numerical rating scale. RESULTS Meta-analysis showed that all these rehabilitative approaches had an overall effect size of -1.43 (95% CI = -2.69 to -0.17) in decreasing vulvodynia pain in terms of the visual analog scale. In the subgroup analysis, a significant effect size in acupuncture (effect size = -2.36; 95% CI = -3.83 to -0.89) and extracorporeal shockwave therapy (effect size = -2.94; 95% CI = -4.31 to -1.57; I2 = 58%) was observed. According to the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, a low risk of bias for outcome selection in 89% of studies. CONCLUSION Findings from this meta-analysis suggested that the physical agent modalities and complementary medicine techniques in people with vulvodynia appear to be more effective than placebo, sham, or waiting list. Further evidence on physical agent modalities and complementary therapies are warranted in the future. IMPACT This was the first systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to provide evidence on the efficacy of rehabilitation interventions in patients with vulvodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Calafiore
- Department of Neurosciences, ASST Carlo Poma, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Mantova, Italy
| | - Nicola Marotta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
- Research Center on Musculoskeletal Health, MusculoSkeletalHealth@UMG, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Claudio Curci
- Department of Neurosciences, ASST Carlo Poma, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Mantova, Italy
| | - Francesco Agostini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurological and Rehabilitation Science, IRCCS San Raffaele, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Ilaria De Socio
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Inzitari
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferraro
- Department of Neurosciences, ASST Carlo Poma, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Mantova, Italy
| | - Andrea Bernetti
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DiSTeBA), University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Antonio Ammendolia
- Research Center on Musculoskeletal Health, MusculoSkeletalHealth@UMG, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Alessandro de Sire
- Research Center on Musculoskeletal Health, MusculoSkeletalHealth@UMG, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
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Jackman VA, Bajzak K, Rains A, Swab M, Miller ME, Logan GS, Gustafson DL. Physical Modalities for the Treatment of Localized Provoked Vulvodynia: A Scoping Review of the Literature from 2010 to 2023. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:769-781. [PMID: 38737495 PMCID: PMC11086396 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s445167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV) is a prevalent sexual health condition with significant negative impacts on quality of life. There is a lack of consensus regarding effective management. Methods We used Arksey and O'Malley's five-step method to identify, collate, and evaluate literature published between 2010 and 2023. The scoping review investigated the efficacy or effectiveness of interventions in the management of LPV. The aim of this paper is to map the literature on the efficacy or effectiveness of physical interventions. Results The review produced 19 primary studies of physical interventions for LPV. These include acupuncture, laser therapy, physiotherapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, low-intensity shockwave therapy, transcranial direct current stimulation, and vestibulectomy. Conclusion Published studies that investigated a range of physical treatments for LPV showed some positive effects, except for transcranial direct-current stimulation. The remaining modalities demonstrated improved sexual pain and treatment satisfaction, when measured. Findings were mixed for non-sexual pain. There was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions regarding other outcomes. Researchers are encouraged to conduct larger, high-quality studies that sample more diverse patient populations and use patient-oriented outcomes to assess effectiveness of physical modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Jackman
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, Newfoundland & Labrador, St. John’sCanada
| | - Krisztina Bajzak
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial University, Newfoundland & Labrador, St. John’sCanada
| | - Alex Rains
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michelle Swab
- Health Sciences Library, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, Newfoundland & Labrador, St. John’sCanada
| | - Michelle E Miller
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial University, Newfoundland & Labrador, St. John’sCanada
| | - Gabrielle S Logan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Diana L Gustafson
- Division of Population Health and Applied Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, Newfoundland & Labrador, St. John’sCanada
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Bekauri T, Fischer S, Honn KV, Maddipati KR, Love T, Little C, Wood RW, Bonham AD, Linder MA, Yule DI, Emanuelle C, Falsetta ML. Inflammation, lipid dysregulation, and transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 signaling perpetuate chronic vulvar pain. Pain 2024; 165:820-837. [PMID: 37889581 PMCID: PMC10949218 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Localized provoked vulvodynia is characterized by chronic vulvar pain that disrupts every aspect of the patient's life. Pain is localized to the vulvar vestibule, a specialized ring of tissue immediately surrounding the vaginal opening involved in immune defense. In this article, we show inflammation is the critical first step necessary for the generation of pain signals in the vulva. Inflammatory stimuli alone or combined with the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 (TRPV4) agonist 4α-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate stimulate calcium flux into vulvar fibroblast cells. Activity is blocked by the TRPV4 antagonist HC067047, denoting specificity to TRPV4. Using lipidomics, we found pro-resolving lipids in the vulvar vestibule were dysregulated, characterized by a reduction in pro-resolving mediators and heightened production of inflammatory mediators. We demonstrate specialized pro-resolving mediators represent a potential new therapy for vulvar pain, acting on 2 key parts of the disease mechanism by limiting inflammation and acutely inhibiting TRPV4 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamari Bekauri
- OB/GYN Research Division, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Sarah Fischer
- OB/GYN Research Division, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Kenneth V. Honn
- Pathology Department, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
- Lipidomics Core Facility and Bioactive Lipids Research Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Krishna Rao Maddipati
- Pathology Department, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
- Lipidomics Core Facility and Bioactive Lipids Research Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Tanzy Love
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Chantelle Little
- OB/GYN Research Division, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Ronald W. Wood
- OB/GYN Research Division, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Adrienne D. Bonham
- OB/GYN Department, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Mitchell A. Linder
- OB/GYN Research Division, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - David I. Yule
- Pharmacology and Physiology Department, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Chrysilla Emanuelle
- Pharmacology and Physiology Department, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Megan L. Falsetta
- OB/GYN Research Division, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
- Pharmacology and Physiology Department, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
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Rains A, Bajzak K, Miller ME, Swab M, Logan GS, Jackman VA, Gustafson DL. Multimodal and Interdisciplinary Interventions for the Treatment of Localized Provoked Vulvodynia: A Scoping Review of the Literature from 2010 to 2023. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:55-94. [PMID: 38250180 PMCID: PMC10798054 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s436222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV) is a chronic condition characterized by pain in the vulvar vestibule, which can be provoked by pressure or touch and which is not tied to a clear underlying cause. Research into the etiology of and most appropriate treatment strategy for LPV is still limited. Methods Using Arksey and O'Malley's model for scoping reviews, we evaluated the research question: what is the current evidence regarding the efficacy/effectiveness of multimodal or interdisciplinary interventions for the treatment of LPV? We collated and analyzed articles from 2010 to 2023 to capture the current research landscape. Results Our review identified 27 studies, which either compared treatments between classes (eg pharmacologic versus psychologic modalities) or described interdisciplinary treatment programs. We identify several trends in the literature. First, outcome measures are inconsistent between studies, often unvalidated, and may not adequately mirror patient concerns. Second, the absence of appropriate comparator groups in many studies restricts providers' ability to appraise which treatments may be most efficacious. Third, selection bias and demographic homogeneity limit generalizability. Finally, we highlight the need for head-to-head trials of vestibulectomy with other treatments considered first line for vulvodynia management. Conclusion There is insufficient evidence to suggest the superiority of one treatment modality for LPV relative to others or to recommend a particular interdisciplinary management strategy. Future research should use a head-to-head design where sham control is impossible, incorporate patient-centered outcome measures, and investigate impacts of treatment among diverse samples of LPV patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Rains
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Krisztina Bajzak
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
| | - Michelle E Miller
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
| | - Michelle Swab
- Health Sciences Library, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
| | - Gabrielle S Logan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Victoria A Jackman
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
| | - Diana L Gustafson
- Division of Community Health and Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
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Falsetta ML, Maddipati KR, Honn KV. Inflammation, lipids, and pain in vulvar disease. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 248:108467. [PMID: 37285943 PMCID: PMC10527276 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV) affects ∼14 million people in the US (9% of women), destroying lives and relationships. LPV is characterized by chronic pain (>3 months) upon touch to the vulvar vestibule, which surrounds the vaginal opening. Many patients go months or years without a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, the treatments available only manage the symptoms of disease and do not correct the underlying problem. We have focused on elucidating the underlying mechanisms of chronic vulvar pain to speed diagnosis and improve intervention and management. We determined the inflammatory response to microorganisms, even members of the resident microflora, sets off a chain of events that culminates in chronic pain. This agrees with findings from several other groups, which show inflammation is altered in the painful vestibule. The vestibule of patients is acutely sensitive to inflammatory stimuli to the point of being deleterious. Rather than protect against vaginal infection, it causes heightened inflammation that does not resolve, which coincides with alterations in lipid metabolism that favor production of proinflammatory lipids and not pro-resolving lipids. Lipid dysbiosis in turn triggers pain signaling through the transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 4 receptor (TRPV4). Treatment with specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) that foster resolution reduces inflammation in fibroblasts and mice and vulvar sensitivity in mice. SPMs, specifically maresin 1, act on more than one part of the vulvodynia mechanism by limiting inflammation and acutely inhibiting TRPV4 signaling. Therefore, SPMs or other agents that target inflammation and/or TRPV4 signaling could prove effective as new vulvodynia therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan L Falsetta
- University of Rochester, OB/GYN Research Division, Rochester, NY, United States of America; University of Rochester, Pharmacology and Physiology Department, Rochester, NY, United States of America.
| | - Krishna Rao Maddipati
- Wayne State University, Pathology Department, Detroit, MI, United States of America; Wayne State University, Lipidomics Core Facility and Bioactive Lipids Research Program, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Kenneth V Honn
- Wayne State University, Pathology Department, Detroit, MI, United States of America; Wayne State University, Lipidomics Core Facility and Bioactive Lipids Research Program, Detroit, MI, United States of America
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Bajzak K, Rains A, Bishop L, Swab M, Miller ME, Logan GS, Jackman V, Jackman L, Gustafson DL. Pharmacological Treatments for Localized Provoked Vulvodynia: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2023; 35:427-443. [PMID: 38601726 PMCID: PMC10903690 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2023.2222114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV) is a chronic pain condition without an identifiable cause that is localized to a portion of the vulva and provoked by pressure or touch. LPV is a commonly occurring but poorly understood condition lacking consensus on management. Method This scoping review used Arksey and O'Malley's approach to identify and evaluate literature published between 2010 and 2023 that addressed the question: What is the current evidence on the efficacy or effectiveness of pharmacological treatments in the management of LPV? Results This review evaluated 18 papers reporting on the efficacy or effectiveness of oral, topical, and injectable medications. Seven of the studies were randomized controlled trials. Oral gabapentin and oral desipramine showed some improvement in sexual function compared to placebo. Small sample sizes and methodological issues limited confidence in interpreting findings. Pain was reduced in descriptive studies of tricyclic antidepressants, milnacipran, injectable anesthetics, and botulinum toxin. Where pain did not improve with treatment, some oral medications improved participants' mood and sexual function. Some topical agents may be effective in reducing peripherally mediated neuropathic pain. Botulinum toxin was the most well-studied injectable but yielded mixed outcomes related to pain, quality of life, and sexual function. Conclusion There is a lack of convincing evidence to draw conclusions about the efficacy or effectiveness of pharmacological therapies for LPV. The breadth of therapies for treating LPV warrants the development of evidence-based, consensus guidelines for measuring treatment outcomes and improving comparisons across studies. Recommendations for research include addressing methodological shortcomings and diversifying the participant pool to increase the generalizability of findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Bajzak
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Alex Rains
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Lisa Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Michelle Swab
- Health Sciences Library, Memorial University, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Michelle E. Miller
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, NL, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Gabrielle S. Logan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Victoria Jackman
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Liam Jackman
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Ergisi M, Law A, Chaudhari N, Tsatsari S, Lawson K, Jenner C. Effectiveness of topical gabapentin in the treatment of vulvodynia: a narrative synthesis. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1159268. [PMID: 37465763 PMCID: PMC10350535 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1159268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvodynia is a leading cause of dyspareunia in premenopausal women, causing considerable morbidity and sexual dysfunction. A multimodal approach is used to treat vulvodynia. Alongside psychosocial interventions and physiotherapy, pharmacological treatment such as oral gabapentin are used in the treatment of vulvodynia. Topical formulations of gabapentin have shown promise in animal models and case reports investigating its use in other pain conditions. The topical route also avoids the systemic complications of gabapentin such as somnolence, dizziness, and peripheral edema. This study aimed to perform a narrative synthesis of studies investigating the use of topical gabapentin in the treatment of vulvodynia. The primary outcome was a change in pain score following treatment with topical gabapentin. A broad literature search was performed, which identified four studies for inclusion. The included studies reported improved pain measures following treatment; however, conclusions cannot be made due to methodological heterogeneity and inherent limitations. These include lack of control arms, small sample sizes, lack of patient randomization, and use of combination treatments. Due to the paucity of evidence, this review supports the future implementation of double-blind randomized controlled trials to further investigate the efficacy of topical gabapentin in the treatment of vulvodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kim Lawson
- Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Jenner
- Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Imperical College London, London, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
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Goetsch MF, Garg B, Lillemon J, Clark AL. Treating where it hurts-a randomized comparative trial of vestibule estradiol for postmenopausal dyspareunia. Menopause 2023; 30:467-475. [PMID: 36787525 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare efficacies of two strengths of estradiol cream applied to the vulvar vestibule and use of silicone lubricant to reduce intercourse pain scores in postmenopausal women with moderate/severe dyspareunia. METHODS This pilot randomized comparative trial assigned 50 women to nightly applications of estradiol cream, 50 or 100 μg, for 12 weeks. We asked women to have lubricated penetration twice weekly, with intercourse or performing a tampon test. Pain, recorded in dairies, was rated using the 0-10 Numerical Rating Scale. We assessed biopsychosocial outcomes, urinary symptoms, and measured serum estradiol levels and endometrial stripe thicknesses. We performed physical examinations to determine tenderness levels of the vestibule, vagina, pelvic floor muscles, bladder, uterus, and adnexa. Comparisons were made using two-sample t test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, or χ2 /Fisher's exact test. RESULTS Forty-seven women (94%), with a mean age of 59.7 years, completed the trial. The baseline median intercourse pain score was 8/10 (interquartile range, 6, 8). After 12 weeks, we measured no statistically significant difference between groups in the primary outcome, intercourse pain score, or any secondary outcome measure. For both groups together, the median intercourse pain score diminished by 50% after 4 weeks and 75% after 12 weeks ( P < 0.001). The most tender anatomic area, the vulvar vestibule, improved by 82% to 100% ( P < 0.001) with therapy. We did not measure a statistically significant difference in serum estradiol levels or endometrial stripe thickness between groups. CONCLUSION Estradiol cream applied to the vulvar vestibule, paired with precoital silicone lubricant, is a promising alternative to vaginal therapy for dyspareunia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha F Goetsch
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Bharti Garg
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | | | - Amanda L Clark
- Division of Urogynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, and Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, Portland, OR
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Bohm-Starke N, Ramsay KW, Lytsy P, Nordgren B, Sjöberg I, Moberg K, Flink I. Treatment of Provoked Vulvodynia: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2022; 19:789-808. [PMID: 35331660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment recommendations for provoked vulvodynia (PVD) are based on clinical experiences and there is a need for systematically summarizing the controlled trials in this field. AIM To provide an overview of randomized controlled trials and non-randomized studies of intervention for PVD, and to assess the certainty of the scientific evidence, in order to advance treatment guidelines. DATA SOURCES The search was conducted in CINAHL (EBSCO), Cochrane Library, Embase (Embase.com), Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO (EBSCO) and Scopus. Databases were searched from January 1, 1990 to January 29, 2021. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Population: Premenopausal women with PVD. INTERVENTIONS Pharmacological, surgical, psychosocial and physiotherapy, either alone or as combined/team-based interventions. CONTROL No treatment, waiting-list, placebo or other defined treatment. OUTCOMES Pain during intercourse, pain upon pressure or touch of the vaginal opening, sexual function/satisfaction, quality of life, psychological distress, adverse events and complications. STUDY DESIGN Randomized controlled trials and non-randomized studies of interventions with a control group. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS 2 reviewers independently screened citations for eligibility and assessed relevant studies for risk of bias using established tools. The results from each intervention were summarized. Studies were synthesized using a narrative approach, as meta-analyses were not considered appropriate. For each outcome, we assessed the certainty of evidence using grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE). RESULTS Most results of the evaluated studies in this systematic review were found to have very low certainty of evidence, which means that we are unable to draw any conclusions about effects of the interventions. Multimodal physiotherapy compared with lidocaine treatment was the only intervention with some evidential support (low certainty of evidence for significant treatment effects favoring physiotherapy). It was not possible to perform meta-analyses due to a heterogeneity in interventions and comparisons. In addition, there was a heterogeneity in outcome measures, which underlines the need to establish joint core outcome sets. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Our result underscores the need of stringent trials and defined core outcome sets for PVD. STRENGTH AND LIMITATIONS Standard procedures for systematic reviews and the Population Intervention Comparison Outcome model for clinical questions were used. The strict eligibility criteria resulted in limited number of studies which might have resulted in a loss of important information. CONCLUSION This systematic review underlines the need for more methodologically stringent trials on interventions for PVD, particularly for multimodal treatments approaches. For future research, there is a demand for joint core outcome sets. Bohm-Starke N, Ramsay KW, Lytsy P, et al. Treatment of Provoked Vulvodynia: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2022;19:789-808.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Bohm-Starke
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Karin Wilbe Ramsay
- Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Lytsy
- Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Nordgren
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden; Women´s Health and Allied Health Professionals Theme, Medical Unit Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
| | - Inga Sjöberg
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Klas Moberg
- Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ida Flink
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology, School of Law, Psychology and Social Work, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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De Seta F, Stabile G, Antoci G, Zito G, Nappi RE. Provoked Vestibulodynia and Topical Treatment: A New Option. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10050830. [PMID: 35627968 PMCID: PMC9142053 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10050830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Provoked vestibulodynia is commonly associated with dyspareunia and affects 7% to 15% of women. This pathology has major implications on sexual function and quality of life, and several types of treatments are available for its management. However, a consensus has not been reached concerning the best treatment of vulvar pain. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of a brand-new product, the vulvar emulgel Meclon® Lenex, for the management of provoked vestibulodynia and non-infective vulvitis. Methods: This was a monocentric, prospective, randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study. We enrolled 40 women with provoked vestibulodynia; 20 patients received Meclon® Lenex, whereas the remaining received a placebo. Each woman was assessed subjectively (through questionnaires) and objectively by evaluating vaginal and vulvar symptoms (Friedrichs criteria and Marinoff dyspareunia grade). We evaluated efficacy, safety, compliance and tolerability of the brand-new product vulvar gel Meclon® Lenex in provoked vestibulodynia. Results: After administration of Meclon® Lenex, we evaluated all parameters of the Friedrichs criteria (burning, dyspareunia, erythema, vulvar pain at the 5 o’clock position and 7 o’clock position), as well as the levels of Marinoff dyspareunia. The active treatment showed to be statistically significantly effective (p value ≤ 0.05) in reducing all symptoms of Friedrichs criteria, vulvar pain and Marinoff dyspareunia. Conclusion: This prospective study showed that Meclon® Lenex vulvar emulgel revealed an excellent tolerability and compliance, demonstrating to be a safe and effective option in the treatment of provoked vestibulodynia and non-infective vulvitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco De Seta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34100 Trieste, Italy; (F.D.S.); (G.Z.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Guglielmo Stabile
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34100 Trieste, Italy; (F.D.S.); (G.Z.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Graziana Antoci
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Zito
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34100 Trieste, Italy; (F.D.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Rossella E. Nappi
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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11
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van der Meijden WI, Boffa MJ, Ter Harmsel B, Kirtschig G, Lewis F, Moyal-Barracco M, Tiplica GS, Sherrard J. 2021 European guideline for the management of vulval conditions. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2022; 36:952-972. [PMID: 35411963 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- W I van der Meijden
- Department of Dermatology, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, UK
| | - M J Boffa
- Department of Dermatology, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | - B Ter Harmsel
- Department of Gynaecology, Roosevelt kliniek, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - G Kirtschig
- Gesundheitszentrum Frauenfeld, Frauenfeld, Switzerland
| | - F Lewis
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - M Moyal-Barracco
- Department of Dermatology, Tarnier-Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - G-S Tiplica
- Dermatology 2, Colentina Clinical Hospital, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - J Sherrard
- Department of Sexual Health, Wycombe General Hospital, Bucks, UK
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12
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Weinschenk S, Benrath J, Kessler E, Strowitzki T, Feisst M. Therapy With Local Anesthetics to Treat Vulvodynia. A Pilot Study. Sex Med 2022; 10:100482. [PMID: 35063914 PMCID: PMC9023246 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vulvodynia (chronic vulvar pain) is a sexually debilitating disorder with a prevalence of ∼10%. Aim To investigate the effectiveness of therapy with local anesthetics (TLA) in women with severe vulvodynia, we conducted a prospective, non-controlled observational study. Methods 45 patients with severe chronic vulvodynia (primary and secondary vulvodynia, 0–10 numeric analogue scale (NAS) ≥6, median 7.9, duration ≥6 months, median 65.2 months) in an outpatient practice in Germany were treated with TLA in 3–12 sessions using procaine 1% as local anesthetic. Effectiveness was analyzed with Wilcoxon signed rank tests and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Outcomes Therapeutic success as a reduction of pain to ≤4 NAS lasting for ≥6 months after end of therapy. Results TLA successfully reduced vulvodynia in 36 of 45 patients (80 %, responders). The NAS reduction was from 7.9 to 2.4 (P < .001). Even patients denominated as non-responders experienced a significant reduction in NAS (P = .03). In responders, long-term success was observed for 6.8–125 months (median 24.1 months). No adverse events occurred. Clinical Translation A promising new treatment for a hard-to-treat chronic female pain disorder. Strengths and Limitations Limitation: Monocentric, non-controlled observational design; Strength: the high number of patients treated. Conclusion The high success rate of TLA in this investigation offers new perspectives on the etiology of vulvodynia as a complex pain syndrome affecting several nerves of the pelvic floor, and also provides early insight into the effectiveness of TLA in women with vulvodynia. Weinschenk S, Benrath J, Kessler E, et al. Therapy With Local Anesthetics to Treat Vulvodynia. A Pilot Study. Sex Med 2022;10:100482.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Weinschenk
- Outpatient practice Weinschenk & Scherer, Karlsruhe, Germany; Deprtment of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Heidelberg University, Germany; the Heidelberg University Neural Therapy Education and Research (HUNTER) Group (www.hunter-heidelberg.com.
| | - Justus Benrath
- Clinic of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Pain Centre, University Clinic, Mannheim, Germany; the Heidelberg University Neural Therapy Education and Research (HUNTER) Group (www.hunter-heidelberg.com
| | | | - Thomas Strowitzki
- Deprtment of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Manuel Feisst
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics; Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; the Heidelberg University Neural Therapy Education and Research (HUNTER) Group (www.hunter-heidelberg.com
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13
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Glayzer JE, McFarlin BL, Castori M, Suarez ML, Meinel MC, Kobak WH, Steffen AD, Schlaeger JM. High rate of dyspareunia and probable vulvodynia in Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and hypermobility spectrum disorders: An online survey. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2021; 187:599-608. [PMID: 34747110 PMCID: PMC8665058 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vulvodynia is debilitating vulvar pain accompanied by dyspareunia (pain with sexual intercourse). Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) may represent a predisposing factor for vulvodynia given a high rate of dyspareunia in these conditions. We conducted an online survey of women with EDS or HSD to assess rates of dyspareunia and estimate rates of vulvodynia, report rates of comorbid conditions common to EDS or HSD and vulvodynia, and examine rates of conditions contributing to dyspareunia in women with EDS or HSD. Women with EDS or HSD (N = 1,146) recruited via social media were 38.2 ± 11.5 years old, primarily White (94.4%), and resided in the United States (78.5%). 63.7% of participants reported dyspareunia and 50% screened positive for vulvodynia. The rate of comorbid conditions common to EDS or HSD and vulvodynia were: irritable bowel syndrome, 6.5%; fibromyalgia, 40.0%; temporomandibular joint dysfunction, 56.4%; migraine, 6.7%; interstitial cystitis, 1.7%; and mast cell activation syndrome, 10.2%. Participants reporting dyspareunia also reported ovarian cysts, fibroids, or abdominal or pelvic scars, 47.5%; endometriosis, 26.5%; and genital lacerations, 19.3%. Women with EDS or HSD may have a higher rate of vulvodynia (50.0%) than women in the U.S. population at large (8%) and should be assessed for dyspareunia and vulvodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Glayzer
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Barbara L McFarlin
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Marco Castori
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS-Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Marie L Suarez
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Monya C Meinel
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - William H Kobak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alana D Steffen
- Department of Population Health Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Judith M Schlaeger
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Mitchell AM, Armour M, Chalmers KJ. Health seeking behaviours and treatments received by Australian women with vulvodynia: A cross-sectional survey. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2021; 61:927-933. [PMID: 34463957 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13423] [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: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvodynia is a condition characterised by pain in the vulva lasting more than three months and for which no obvious aetiology can be found. It affects around 8% of women and has significant negative impacts on quality of life. There is a paucity of research on healthcare management pathways and the use of evidence-based treatments in an Australian community setting. AIMS To explore which healthcare professionals Australian women with vulvodynia seek treatment from, and which treatments are recommended, provided, or prescribed by these healthcare professionals. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from May 2019 to August 2019. Women were eligible to participate if they had been diagnosed with vulvodynia by a healthcare professional, were currently living in Australia, and were over 18 years old. RESULTS Fifty respondents meet the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 30.5 years. On average, respondents reported seeing four different types of healthcare professionals in the management of their vulvodynia, with general practitioners (GPs) (98%), medical specialists (96%), and physiotherapists (80%) being the three most commonly consulted. Most respondents reported seeing multiple GPs (>87%), multiple medical specialists (>77%), and multiple physiotherapists (50%). The most commonly prescribed interventions were pelvic floor down-training exercises (76%), topical (70%) and oral (70%) medication, and vulvodynia information (56%). CONCLUSIONS Australian women with vulvodynia seek help from several professionals and receive a variety of treatments for their pain. Of concern is many treatments that are being offered clinically have very little peer-reviewed evidence of effectiveness in vulvodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice M Mitchell
- School of Health Science, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - K Jane Chalmers
- School of Health Science, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Rothenberger R, Jones W, MacNeill C. Itraconazole Improves Vulvodynia in Fungus Culture-Negative Patients Post Fluconazole Failure. Sex Med 2021; 9:100383. [PMID: 34246854 PMCID: PMC8360923 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vulvodynia is a difficult condition to treat due to both the uncertain etiology of the disorder and poorly available therapies. This difficulty leads to a disproportionately high prevalence and cost of treatment for this condition. Candida vulvovaginitis is a frequent co-present diagnosis in vulvodynia patients. Whether through treatment of co-present, candida vulvovaginitis or by systemic interaction, itraconazole has been proposed as a treatment for vulvodynia. Aim To describe objective change in vulvodynia pain in a cohort of patients treated with itraconazole. Methods This study was a retrospective cohort study comprised of women diagnosed with vulvodynia who were treated with itraconazole between January 1, 2011 and October 17, 2017. Patients had failed fluconazole treatment and had negative fungus cultures for >2 months before itraconazole treatment. All other vulvovaginal disorders were excluded. Main outcome measure The main outcome measure was the change in pain before and after treatment as measured by cotton swab testing. Results 106 patients met inclusion criteria. Average pain reduction for the entire cohort was 60.7%. Patients who continued itraconazole for 5 to 8 weeks demonstrated a 69.6% reduction in cotton swab test pain. Pain reduction as a percentage of total patients showed complete resolution of pain in 37.7% of patients and >50% reduction in 66.0% of patients. Two-sample paired T-tests for means analysis of pain scores disproved the null hypothesis (P < .01, α = 0.01) and showed a 50% reduction in pain to be significant (P = 0.043, α = 0.05). Two-tailed Wilcoxon signed rank test also demonstrated rejection of the null hypothesis (α = 0.05). Conclusions Itraconazole therapy is associated with a significant reduction in vulvovaginal pain in patients with negative fungus cultures and no other identifiable disease in this pilot study. A randomized placebo-controlled trial is warranted. Rothenberger R, Jones W, MacNeill C. Itraconazole Improves Vulvodynia in Fungus Culture-Negative Patients Post Fluconazole Failure. J Sex Med 2021;9:100383
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wendy Jones
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Colin MacNeill
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA; Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates, Burlington, MA
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Torres-Cueco R, Nohales-Alfonso F. Vulvodynia-It Is Time to Accept a New Understanding from a Neurobiological Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18126639. [PMID: 34205495 PMCID: PMC8296499 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Vulvodynia is one the most common causes of pain during sexual intercourse in premenopausal women. The burden of vulvodynia in a woman's life can be devastating due to its consequences in the couple's sexuality and intimacy, in activities of daily living, and psychological well-being. In recent decades, there has been considerable progress in the understanding of vulvar pain. The most significant change has been the differentiation of vulvar pain secondary to pathology or disease from vulvodynia. However, although it is currently proposed that vulvodynia should be considered as a primary chronic pain condition and, therefore, without an obvious identifiable cause, it is still believed that different inflammatory, genetic, hormonal, muscular factors, etc. may be involved in its development. Advances in pain neuroscience and the central sensitization paradigm have led to a new approach to vulvodynia from a neurobiological perspective. It is proposed that vulvodynia should be understood as complex pain without relevant nociception. Different clinical identifiers of vulvodynia are presented from a neurobiological and psychosocial perspective. In this case, strategies to modulate altered central pain processing is necessary, changing the patient's erroneous cognitions about their pain, and also reducing fear avoidance-behaviors and the disability of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Torres-Cueco
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Francisco Nohales-Alfonso
- Gynecology Section, Clinical Area of Women’s Diseases, La Fe University Hospital, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
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17
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Comparing Vestibule Examination Techniques: Light Touch, Serial Forces, and the Lidocaine Test. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2021; 25:236-242. [PMID: 34016868 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to compare techniques and pain scales that assess tenderness in the vulvar vestibule in provoked vestibulodynia, using the cotton swab test and a vulvalgesiometer, and assess topical lidocaine solution with each. MATERIALS AND METHODS This randomized study at a specialty vulvar clinic evaluated tender vestibules of reproductive-aged women with vestibulodynia using light rolling cotton swab touch at 6 sites and evaluated the vulvalgesiometer at 2 sites, randomizing the order of the initial tool. Participants reported pain using the Numerical Rating Scale 0-10 and the Verbal Pain Scale 0-3. With the vulvalgesiometer, the pain tolerance threshold was measured using forces of 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 300 g. After both initial tests, lidocaine 4% topical solution was applied for 3 minutes, and the swab test and vulvalgesiometer were repeated in the order initially performed, constituting the lidocaine test. Data analysis used t tests, Fisher exact tests, Wilcoxon signed rank tests, and Spearman rank correlation. RESULTS Sixteen patients completed the study, 8 starting with each instrument. Light swab touch evoked significant pain, and lidocaine reduced pain to zero or mild levels. The pain threshold was 25 g, and only 38% could tolerate testing past 100 g without lidocaine. The Verbal Pain Scale correlated well with the Numerical Rating Scale. CONCLUSIONS Light rolling cotton swab touch using the 4-item verbal scale can map vestibulodynia tenderness that can be extinguished by lidocaine, consistent with distinguishing a mucosal condition. Forces by vulvalgesiometer of greater than 100-200 g may evoke pain other than mucosal allodynia.
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Ghizzani A, Luisi S, Cartocci A, Cevenini G. Genitopelvic pain: retrospective evaluation of a multimodal treatment efficacy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 72:123-131. [PMID: 33000613 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.20.04555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genitopelvic and sexual pain penetration disorder (GPPD) recognizes a multifaceted etiology. As with syndromes of chronic pain, it responds poorly to medications and its management is difficult. Clinicians consequently favor a multimodal comprehensive approach to tackle the different aspects of the disorder. To treat GPPD women, we chose a multimodal regimen including topical and systemic medications associated with physical interventions and behavioral couple therapy. Our aim was to evaluate the regimen efficacy and the influence that demographic, clinical, and pain characteristics may have on the outcome. METHODS Sixty self -referred women requesting medical care for GPPD, who were free of debilitating illness, in stable heterosexual relationships and with healthy and sexually functional partners, were treated according with the multimodal regimen we tailored on the specific needs of these women. As said, it associated topical and systemic medications combined with physical exercises used in behavioral sex therapy, and behavioral couple therapy. Past sexual history, characteristics of pain, vestibular hyperreactivity, pelvic floor hypertonicity, general health, and couple harmony were evaluated and statistically analyzed to determine which characteristics were associated with therapy outcome. RESULTS The statistical analysis of an association between demographic, reproductive, pain and medical conditions on one hand and therapy outcome on the other did not find any significance. CONCLUSIONS The lack of association between the investigated characteristics and treatment outcome is disappointing; on the other hand, the statistically significant impact of couple harmony (evaluated as partner presence and participation) on the treatment results may be the answer to our search for factors predicting outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ghizzani
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Ginecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Ginecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy -
| | | | - Gabriele Cevenini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Vestibular Anatomic Localization of Pain Sensitivity in Women with Insertional Dyspareunia: A Different Approach to Address the Variability of Painful Intercourse. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9072023. [PMID: 32605092 PMCID: PMC7409043 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathophysiology underlying painful intercourse is challenging due to variability in manifestations of vulvar pain hypersensitivity. This study aimed to address whether the anatomic location of vestibular-provoked pain is associated with specific, possible causes for insertional dyspareunia. Women (n = 113) were assessed for “anterior” and “posterior” provoked vestibular pain based on vestibular tenderness location evoked by a Q-tip test. Pain evoked during vaginal intercourse, pain evoked by deep muscle palpation, and the severity of pelvic floor muscles hypertonicity were assessed. The role of potential confounders (vestibular atrophy, umbilical pain hypersensitivity, hyper-tonus of pelvic floor muscles and presence of a constricting hymenal-ring) was analyzed to define whether distinctive subgroups exist. Q-tip stimulation provoked posterior vestibular tenderness in all participants (6.20 ± 1.9). However, 41 patients also demonstrated anterior vestibular pain hypersensitivity (5.24 ± 1.5). This group (circumferential vestibular tenderness), presented with either vestibular atrophy associated with hormonal contraception use (n = 21), or augmented tactile umbilical-hypersensitivity (n = 20). The posterior-only vestibular tenderness group included either women with a constricting hymenal-ring (n = 37) or with pelvic floor hypertonicity (n = 35). Interestingly, pain evoked during intercourse did not differ between groups. Linear regression analyses revealed augmented coital pain experience, umbilical-hypersensitivity and vestibular atrophy predicted enhanced pain hypersensitivity evoked at the anterior, but not at the posterior vestibule (R = 0.497, p < 0.001). Distinguishing tactile hypersensitivity in anterior and posterior vestibule and recognition of additional nociceptive markers can lead to clinical subgrouping.
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20
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Evaluation of Long-Term Surgical Success and Satisfaction of Patients After Vestibulectomy. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2020; 24:399-404. [PMID: 32569021 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vestibulectomy is one of the only proven therapeutic treatments for provoked vulvodynia (PVD). However, little is known about long-term surgical success. METHODS Patients who underwent vestibulectomy between 1991 and 2003 were interviewed to assess frequency of intercourse and degree of pain during various activities, as well as satisfaction with and willingness to recommend the surgery. We also examined the outcome relation to PVD type being primary or secondary. Differences in pain over time were assessed using a paired-sample t test or a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS Of 85 eligible patients, 50 (59%) were contacted and 32 (38%) participated. All underwent vestibulectomy 12-24 years prior by the same surgeon. All experienced sexual intercourse without pain at some point after surgery (median = 4 months). Penetration pain averaged 9.13 (scale = 0-10) before surgery and dropped to 0.47 at the time of follow up (p < .001). Other activities that were reported as painful before surgery also improved significantly. No patients reported worsening of pain over time; 87.5% were able to engage in sexual intercourse immediately after the recovery period, and 97% were able to do so at the time of follow up. Ninety-four percent of respondents were highly satisfied, 97% would undergo the surgery again, and 100% would recommend it to others. The type of PVD was unrelated to treatment outcome (p = .297). CONCLUSIONS Vestibulectomy is an excellent treatment for PVD and has successful long-term outcomes.
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Grinberg K, Sela Y, Nissanholtz-Gannot R. New Insights about Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3005. [PMID: 32357440 PMCID: PMC7246747 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is one of the common diseases in urology and gynecology. CPPS is a multifactorial disorder where pain may originate in any of the urogynecological, gastrointestinal, pelvic musculoskeletal, or nervous systems. The symptoms of CPPS appear to result from an interplay between psychological factors and dysfunction in the immune, neurological, and endocrine systems. The aim of this article was to present new insight about CPPS in order to raise awareness of nursing and medical staff in the identification and diagnosis of the syndrome and to promote an appropriate treatment for each woman who suffers from CPPS. METHODS A literature review about the factors associated with CPPS and therapeutic interventions for CPPS was conducted. RESULTS CPPS represents a chronic pain syndrome that combines anatomic malfunction of the pelvic floor muscles with malfunction of pain perception linked with psychological and cognitive factors. CONCLUSIONS The therapeutic interventions in CPPS cases should, consequently, follow a multidisciplinary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Grinberg
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Social and Community Science, Ruppin Academic Center, 40250 Emek-Hefer, Israel
| | - Yael Sela
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Social and Community Science, Ruppin Academic Center, 40250 Emek-Hefer, Israel
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Pâquet M, Vaillancourt-Morel MP, Jodouin JF, Steben M, Bergeron S. Pain Trajectories and Predictors: A 7-Year Longitudinal Study of Women With Vulvodynia. J Sex Med 2019; 16:1606-1614. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Acupuncture Augmentation of Lidocaine for Provoked, Localized Vulvodynia: A Feasibility and Acceptability Study. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2019; 23:279-286. [PMID: 31592976 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Bautrant E, Porta O, Murina F, Mühlrad H, Levêque C, Riant T, Ploteau S, Valancogne G, Levesque A. Provoked vulvar vestibulodynia: Epidemiology in Europe, physio-pathology, consensus for first-line treatment and evaluation of second-line treatments. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2019; 48:685-688. [PMID: 31051298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Bautrant
- Pelvi-Perineal Surgery and Rehabilitation Department, Private Medical Center "L'Avancée-Clinique Axium", 44 Avenue du Marechal Lattre de Tassigny, 13090 Aix en Provence, France.
| | - Oriol Porta
- Section Gynecology, Santa Creu i Sant Pau Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Filippo Murina
- Lower Genital Tract Disease Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, V Buzzi Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Hanna Mühlrad
- Department of Economics, Lund University, 22100, Lund, Sweden
| | - Christine Levêque
- Pelvi-Perineal Surgery and Rehabilitation Department, Private Medical Center "L'Avancée-Clinique Axium", 44 Avenue du Marechal Lattre de Tassigny, 13090 Aix en Provence, France
| | - Thibaut Riant
- "Catherine de Sienne Centre", 2 rue Eric Tabarly, 44202, Nantes, France
| | - Stephane Ploteau
- Federative pelvi-perineology centre, University Hospital of Nantes, 44093, Nantes, France
| | - Guy Valancogne
- "Tête d'or" Reeducation Centre, 85 Boulevard des Belges, 69006, Lyon, France
| | - Amélie Levesque
- Federative pelvi-perineology centre, University Hospital of Nantes, 44093, Nantes, France
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Vieira-Baptista P, Lima-Silva J, Pérez-López FR, Preti M, Bornstein J. Vulvodynia: A disease commonly hidden in plain sight. Case Rep Womens Health 2018; 20:e00079. [PMID: 30245974 PMCID: PMC6142188 DOI: 10.1016/j.crwh.2018.e00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
•Vulvodynia affects at least 6% of women, and can be found at any age and in all ethnic groups.•The diagnosis is one of exclusion but is very often missed.•Women with vulvodynia are frequently misdiagnosed as having vaginismus.•Failure to make the diagnosis often leads to irrelevant or deleterious examinations and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Vieira-Baptista
- Hospital Lusíadas Porto, Portugal
- Unidade de Tracto Genital Inferior, Serviço de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Lima-Silva
- Unidade de Tracto Genital Inferior, Serviço de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Faustino R. Pérez-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Zaragoza, Faculty of Medicine, Lozano-Blesa University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mario Preti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Jacob Bornstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya and Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
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Törnävä M, Koivula M, Helminen M, Suominen T. Web-based education about vulvodynia and its care among student healthcare staff: A quasi-experimental study. Nurse Educ Pract 2018; 31:194-199. [PMID: 29986313 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Student healthcare providers are the type of primary healthcare professionals who usually have first contact with young women who have problems with intimacy, such as vulvar pain - known as vulvodynia. However, a need to increase healthcare professionals' level of knowledge of vulvodynia and its care has been identified. This study aimed to assess the awareness and knowledge of vulvodynia and its care among student healthcare providers, before and after Web-based education. The study design was national, descriptive and quasi-experimental, and was conducted across Finland. A total of 79 participants completed baseline measurements, 58 completed web-based education and 30 took part in a follow-up survey. A survey instrument called 'Awareness and knowledge of vulvodynia and its care' was developed for this study, and the data were collected using a web-based questionnaire. Descriptive statistical methods were used to evaluate the participants' awareness and knowledge of vulvodynia and its care before and after web-based education. The primary results indicated that the participants' awareness and knowledge of vulvodynia and its care was statistically significantly improved following web-based education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Törnävä
- University of Tampere, Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Finland; Tampere University Hospital, Pirkanmaa Hospital District, Finland.
| | - Meeri Koivula
- University of Tampere, Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Finland
| | - Mika Helminen
- University of Tampere, Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Finland; Tampere University Hospital, Pirkanmaa Hospital District, Finland
| | - Tarja Suominen
- University of Tampere, Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Finland
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Miranda Varella Pereira G, Soriano Marcolino M, Silveira Nogueira Reis Z, Vale de Castro Monteiro M. A systematic review of drug treatment of vulvodynia: evidence of a strong placebo effect. BJOG 2018; 125:1216-1224. [PMID: 29569822 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvodynia is the most common type of chronic pelvic pain and dyspareunia in premenopausal women. The effect of drugs for the treatment of vulvodynia remains poorly discussed. OBJECTIVES To conduct a systematic review of randomised controlled studies which assess medications used to treat vulvar pain in vulvodynia. SEARCH STRATEGY Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EBSCO Academic, LILACS and MEDLINE were searched from 1985 to September 2016. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials comparing any kind of medication for vulvodynia treatment with placebo or with another medication in adult patients were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The two investigators independently conducted data extraction. The synthesis was provided by the pain reduction index. Study quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Intervention and analysis of publication bias was conducted. MAIN RESULTS Five studies were included in qualitative synthesis. Number of participants varied from 30 to 133 participants among the eligible studies, resulting in a total of 297 patients. The pain reduction rates of patients with vulvodynia assessed by Q-tipped cotton test and visual analogue scale varied between studies. Placebo was shown to be as effective as any medication. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for further studies evaluating topical monotherapy for the treatment of vulvodynia, as they are the main drugs used in clinical practice. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT No medication has shown impact on vulvar pain in vulvodynia. There is evidence of a placebo effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Miranda Varella Pereira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Federal University de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - M Soriano Marcolino
- Department of Internal Medicine, Federal University de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Z Silveira Nogueira Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Federal University de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - M Vale de Castro Monteiro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Federal University de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Lamvu G, Alappattu M, Witzeman K, Bishop M, Robinson M, Rapkin A. Patterns in Vulvodynia Treatments and 6-Month Outcomes for Women Enrolled in the National Vulvodynia Registry-An Exploratory Prospective Study. J Sex Med 2018; 15:705-715. [PMID: 29631955 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvodynia is a poorly characterized condition with multiple treatment options that have been described as largely ineffective in research settings. AIM To describe treatment patterns in women enrolled in the National Vulvodynia Registry and determine if there is an association between selected treatments and patient-reported outcomes such as pain, sexual function, and psychological distress after 6 months of treatment. METHODS Participants completed questionnaires on general medical history and patient-reported outcomes using the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, the Short Form-12 quality-of-life questionnaire, the Coping Strategies Questionnaire, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The evaluation also included pain sensitivity assessment of the vaginal mucosa using a cotton-tipped applicator and the vaginal muscles using a single-digit. In this prospective cohort study, all measurements were collected at baseline and again at 6 months after treatment. OUTCOMES Type of treatment, number of treatments, self-reported pain intensity, dyspareunia, and pain-related psychological distress measures are reported at baseline and 6 months. RESULTS Of 344 women enrolled, 282 received treatment; 78 different treatments were identified and categorized by type (eg, topical, oral, physical therapy) and number. The most commonly used treatments were topical (85%, n = 241), physical therapy (52%, n = 147), and oral medications (45%, n = 128). Notably, 73% of participants received ≥2 treatments. There was no association between type or number of treatments and patient characteristics. At 6 months, women reported improvements in general pain (P = .001), pain during intercourse (P = .001), catastrophizing (P = .000), and anxiety (P = .000). The Short Form-12 quality-of-life questionnaire showed improvements in physical limitations (P = .024), emotional limitations (P = .003), well-being (P = .025), and social function (P = .010). However, all domains of the Female Sexual Function Index indicated worsening in sexual function (P = .000) except for pain. CLINICAL TRANSLATION Multi-modal treatments were most commonly used in clinical practice and improvements in patient-reported outcomes such as quality of life, distress, and pain were noted; however, participants who returned at 6 months continued to report poor sexual function. CONCLUSIONS Strengths include a prospective and long-term study design that evaluated women in clinical settings. Limitations include a high rate of loss to follow-up for certain measures and inability to evaluate efficacy of individual treatments. In a setting where women were receiving highly specialized care, we found wide variation in the type and number of treatments used to treat vulvodynia. Despite this heterogeneity in treatment selection, women reported significant improvements in all study measures except sexual function. Lamvu G, Alappattu M, Witzeman K, et al. Patterns in Vulvodynia Treatments and 6-Month Outcomes for Women Enrolled in the National Vulvodynia Registry-An Exploratory Prospective Study. J Sex Med 2018;15:705-715.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgine Lamvu
- Division of Surgery, Gynecology Section, Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Orlando, FL, USA; University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA.
| | - Meryl Alappattu
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Center for Pain Research and Behavioral Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kathryn Witzeman
- Women's Integrated Health Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Mark Bishop
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Center for Pain Research and Behavioral Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Michael Robinson
- Center for Pain Research and Behavioral Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Andrea Rapkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Danielsen KG, Dahl-Michelsen T, Håkonsen E, Haugstad GK. Recovering from provoked vestibulodynia: Experiences from encounters with somatocognitive therapy. Physiother Theory Pract 2018; 35:1-10. [PMID: 29474104 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2018.1442540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2016] [Revised: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Although provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) represents a significant challenge for many young women in the Western world, little is known about how these women experience therapeutic efforts. The aim of this paper is to enhance our knowledge of the way that the therapeutic process is experienced by women with PVD undergoing somatocognitive therapy (SCT). The study enhances insight into this recently developed therapy through a detailed description of the physiotherapy approach. The empirical data are based on interviews with six women who participated in SCT. The empirical data analysis is guided by thematic analysis. Our findings demonstrate how the women experience SCT as a bodily process of wholeness. The process of wholeness relates to new experiences in the women's own bodies, awareness of muscular and mental tension and relaxation, breathing patterns, and perceptions focusing on pain. The findings are presented as three interrelated themes: 1) sensitizing the body as an interconnected unit; 2) incorporating the painful pubic region into the body; and 3) developing a new understanding of oneself. The women who participated in this study found that SCT contributed significantly to the process of their recovery from PVD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tone Dahl-Michelsen
- a Faculty of Health Sciences , OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Elin Håkonsen
- a Faculty of Health Sciences , OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gro Killi Haugstad
- a Faculty of Health Sciences , OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
- b Department of Psychosomatic and Behavioural Medicine , University of Oslo , Oslo, Norway
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Diagnosis and management of vulvodynia in postmenopausal women. Maturitas 2018; 108:84-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Gupta A, Woodworth DC, Ellingson BM, Rapkin AJ, Naliboff B, Kilpatrick LA, Stains J, Masghati S, Tillisch K, Mayer EA, Labus JS. Disease-Related Microstructural Differences in the Brain in Women With Provoked Vestibulodynia. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2018; 19:528.e1-528.e15. [PMID: 29391213 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2017.12.269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) is a chronic pelvic pain disorder affecting 16% of the female population. Neuroimaging studies have highlighted central abnormalities in PVD, similar to other chronic pelvic pain disorders, including brain regions involved in sensory processing and modulation of pain. The aim of the study was to determine alterations in the subvoxel, microstructural organization within tissues in PVD compared with healthy control participants (HCs) and a disease control group (irritable bowel syndrome [IBS]). Diffusion tensor imaging magnetic resonance imaging was conducted in 87 age-matched premenopausal women (29 PVD, 29 HCs, 29 IBS). Statistical parameter mapping of fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) maps were used to identify microstructural difference in the brain specific to PVD or shared with IBS. PVD alterations in microstructural organization of the brain were predominantly observed in fibers associated with sensorimotor integration and pain processing that relay information between the thalamus, basal ganglia, sensorimotor, and insular cortex. PVD, compared with HCs, showed extensive increases in the FA of somatosensory and basal ganglia regions. In contrast, PVD and IBS subjects did not show any FA-related group differences. PVD subjects showed greater MD in the basal ganglia compared with HCs (higher MD in the internal capsule and pallidum) and IBS (higher MD in the putamen and pallidum). Increases in MD were associated with increased vaginal muscle tenderness and vulvar pain. The current findings highlight possible shared mechanisms between 2 different pelvic pain disorders, but also highlight the widespread alterations observed specifically in PVD compared with HCs. PERSPECTIVE Alterations in microstructure in PVD were observed in fibers associated with sensorimotor integration and pain processing, which were also associated with increased vaginal muscle tenderness and vulvar pain. These alterations may be contributing to increased pain sensitivity and tenderness, highlighting the need for new therapies targeting the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpana Gupta
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Davis C Woodworth
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Benjamin M Ellingson
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Department of Radiology at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Andrea J Rapkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Bruce Naliboff
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Lisa A Kilpatrick
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jean Stains
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Salome Masghati
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kirsten Tillisch
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Emeran A Mayer
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jennifer S Labus
- G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California.
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33
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Low-Level Laser Therapy for the Treatment of Provoked Vestibulodynia—A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial. J Sex Med 2017; 14:1403-1411. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Abstract
Persistent vulvar pain is a complex disorder that frequently is frustrating to the patient and the clinician. It can be difficult to treat and rapid resolution is unusual, even with appropriate therapy. Vulvar pain can be caused by a specific disorder or it can be idiopathic. Idiopathic vulvar pain is classified as vulvodynia. Although optimal treatment remains unclear, consider an individualized, multidisciplinary approach to address all physical and emotional aspects possibly attributable to vulvodynia. Specialists who may need to be involved include sexual counselors, clinical psychologists, physical therapists, and pain specialists. Patients may perceive this approach to mean the practitioner does not believe their pain is "real"; thus, it is important to begin any treatment approach with a detailed discussion, including an explanation of the diagnosis and determination of realistic treatment goals. Future research should aim at evaluating a multimodal approach in the treatment of vulvodynia, along with more research on the etiologies of vulvodynia.
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36
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Ezebialu I, Okafo O, Oringanje C, Ogbonna U, Udoh E, Odey F, Meremikwu MM. Surgical and nonsurgical interventions for vulvar and clitoral pain in girls and women living with female genital mutilation: A systematic review. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2017; 136 Suppl 1:34-37. [PMID: 28164286 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvar and clitoral pain are known complications of female genital mutilation (FGM). Several interventions have been used to treat these conditions. This review focuses on surgical and nonsurgical interventions to improve vulvar and clitoral pain in women living with FGM. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of nonsurgical and surgical interventions for alleviating vulvar and clitoral pain in women living with any type of FGM and to assess the associated adverse events. SEARCH STRATEGY The search included the following major databases: Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov. These were searched from inception until August 10, 2015 without any language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA Study designs included randomized controlled trials, cluster randomized trials, nonrandomized trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, controlled before-and-after studies, historical control studies, and interrupted time series with reported data comparing outcomes among women with FGM who were treated for clitoral or vulvar pain with either surgical or nonsurgical interventions. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two team members independently screened studies for eligibility. RESULTS No studies were included. CONCLUSION Limited information exists on management of vulvar and clitoral pain in women living with FGM. This constitutes an important area for further research. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42015024521.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeanyichukwu Ezebialu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Anambra State University, Awka, Nigeria
| | | | - Chukwudi Oringanje
- Institute of Tropical Disease, Research and Prevention, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Udoezuo Ogbonna
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Ekong Udoh
- Institute of Tropical Disease, Research and Prevention, Calabar, Nigeria.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom, Nigeria
| | - Friday Odey
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Martin M Meremikwu
- Institute of Tropical Disease, Research and Prevention, Calabar, Nigeria.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
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Törnävä M, Koivula M, Helminen M, Suominen T. Women with vulvodynia: awareness and knowledge of its care among student healthcare staff. Scand J Caring Sci 2017; 32:241-252. [DOI: 10.1111/scs.12455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Minna Törnävä
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
- Tampere University Hospital; Pirkanmaa Hospital District; Tampere Finland
| | - Meeri Koivula
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
| | - Mika Helminen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
- Tampere University Hospital; Pirkanmaa Hospital District; Tampere Finland
| | - Tarja Suominen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Health Sciences; University of Tampere; Tampere Finland
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38
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Davidson MJ, Bryant AL, Bower WF, Frawley HC. Myotonometry Reliably Measures Muscle Stiffness in the Thenar and Perineal Muscles. Physiother Can 2017; 69:104-112. [PMID: 28539690 DOI: 10.3138/ptc.2015-85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The authors investigated the reliability of myotonometry-measured muscle tone in the thenar and perineal muscles. Methods: Participants were women aged 18-50 years who were asymptomatic for thumb and pelvic floor dysfunction (interrater study n=20; intrarater study n=43) or who were symptomatic for vulvodynia (interrater study n=14; intrarater study n=32). Mechanical properties (stiffness, frequency, decrement, relaxation time, and creep) of the muscles were measured using a myotonometer (MyotonPRO) while the muscles were in a relaxed state. Measures were performed twice by two assessors. Intra- and interrater reliability were determined using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and absolute reliability using the standard error of measurement and a minimum detectable change. Results: The primary property of interest, muscle stiffness, showed very good interrater (ICC 0.85-0.86) and intrarater (ICC 0.82-0.88) reliability in the thenar eminence. In the perineal muscles, reliability results ranged from good to very good for interrater (ICC 0.70-0.86) and intrarater (ICC 0.80-0.91) reliability for muscle stiffness. Absolute reliability was confirmed, with all measures showing minimal variance. Conclusions: Muscle stiffness of the smaller muscles of the body can be reliably measured using the MyotonPRO. The device could be used as a reference standard in the development of a digital palpation scale that would facilitate accurate diagnosis of muscle tone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam L Bryant
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne
| | - Wendy F Bower
- Sub-Acute Services, Royal Park Campus, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne
| | - Helena C Frawley
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne.,School of Allied Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora.,Centre for Allied Health Research and Education, Cabrini Health, Malvern, Vict., Australia
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Morin M, Carroll MS, Bergeron S. Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Physical Therapy Modalities in Women With Provoked Vestibulodynia. Sex Med Rev 2017; 5:295-322. [PMID: 28363763 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pelvic floor muscle physical therapy is recommended in clinical guidelines for women with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD). Including isolated or combined treatment modalities, physical therapy is viewed as an effective first-line intervention, yet no systematic review concerning the effectiveness of physical therapy has been conducted. AIM To systematically appraise the current literature on the effectiveness of physical therapy modalities for decreasing pain during intercourse and improving sexual function in women with PVD. METHODS A systematic literature search using PubMed, Scopus, CINHAL, and PEDro was conducted until October 2016. Moreover, a manual search from reference lists of included articles was performed. Ongoing trials also were reviewed using clinicaltrial.gov and ISRCTNregistry. Randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective cohorts, and case reports evaluating the effect of isolated or combined physical therapy modalities in women with PVD were included in the review. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Main outcome measures were pain during intercourse, sexual function, and patient's perceived improvement. RESULTS The literature search resulted in 43 eligible studies including 7 randomized controlled trials, 20 prospective studies, 5 retrospective studies, 6 case reports, and 6 study protocols. Most studies had a high risk of bias mainly associated with the lack of a comparison group. Another common bias was related to insufficient sample size, non-validated outcomes, non-standardized intervention, and use of other ongoing treatment. The vast majority of studies showed that physical therapy modalities such as biofeedback, dilators, electrical stimulation, education, multimodal physical therapy, and multidisciplinary approaches were effective for decreasing pain during intercourse and improving sexual function. CONCLUSION The positive findings for the effectiveness of physical therapy modalities in women with PVD should be investigated further in robust and well-designed randomized controlled trials. Morin M, Carroll M-S, Bergeron S. Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Physical Therapy Modalities in Women With Provoked Vestibulodynia. Sex Med Rev 2017;5:295-322.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Morin
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke; Research Center, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
| | - Marie-Soleil Carroll
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke; Research Center, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS), Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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McLean L, Brooks K. What Does Electromyography Tell Us About Dyspareunia? Sex Med Rev 2017; 5:282-294. [PMID: 28330675 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Emergent evidence suggests that pelvic floor muscle (PFM) dysfunction contributes to dyspareunia, the experience of pain on vaginal penetration. Electromyography (EMG) is a valuable tool for the assessment of neuromuscular control and could be very useful in enhancing our understanding of PFM involvement in sexual function and in conditions such as dyspareunia. However, PFM EMG must be interpreted within the context of the many factors that can influence findings. AIM To outline the main factors to consider when evaluating PFM EMG for female sexual function and dyspareunia and to synthesize the literature in which EMG has been acquired and interpreted appropriately in this context. METHODS Standards for the acquisition and interpretation of EMG were retrieved and consulted. An exhaustive search of four electronic databases (Embase, CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycLit) and hand searching references from relevant articles were performed to locate articles relevant to PFM involvement in sexual function and in dyspareunia in which EMG was used as a primary outcome. Study outcomes were evaluated within the context of the appropriate application and interpretation of EMG and their contribution to knowledge. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES A synthesis of the evidence was used to present the current state of knowledge on PFM involvement in sexual function and in dyspareunia. RESULTS Few standards documents and no practice guidelines for the acquisition and interpretation of PFM EMG are available. Some cohort studies with small samples of women have described the role of the PFMs in female sexual function. The literature on PFM involvement in dyspareunia also is limited, with outcomes suggesting that higher than normal tonic activation and higher than normal reflex responses might be present in the superficial PFM layer and might be characteristic features of dyspareunia. The data are less clear on the involvement of the deep layer of the PFMs in dyspareunia. CONCLUSION Guidelines for the application and interpretation of PFM EMG in the context of sexual function and dyspareunia are needed. When interpreted within the context of their strengths and limitations, EMG data have contributed valuable information to our understanding of PFM involvement in dyspareunia. The literature to date suggests that the superficial PFMs might have higher than normal tone and exaggerated responses to tactile or penetrative provocation in at least some women with dyspareunia. McLean L, Brooks K. What Does Electromyography Tell Us About Dyspareunia? Sex Med Rev 2017;5:282-294.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda McLean
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Kaylee Brooks
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Tadir Y, Gaspar A, Lev-Sagie A, Alexiades M, Alinsod R, Bader A, Calligaro A, Elias JA, Gambaciani M, Gaviria JE, Iglesia CB, Selih-Martinec K, Mwesigwa PL, Ogrinc UB, Salvatore S, Scollo P, Zerbinati N, Nelson JS. Light and energy based therapeutics for genitourinary syndrome of menopause: Consensus and controversies. Lasers Surg Med 2017; 49:137-159. [PMID: 28220946 DOI: 10.1002/lsm.22637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Gynecologist and plastic surgeons pioneered the application of lasers in medicine and surgery almost 5 decades ago, initially used to treat cervical and vaginal pathologies. Ever since, energy-based devices have been deployed to treat pelvic pathologies and improve fertility. Recent technological developments triggered an unprecedented wave of publications, assessing the efficacy of fractional laser, and radiofrequency on the vaginal wall in reversing natural aging processes. Studies have shown that a certain degree of thermal energy deposited on the vaginal wall stimulates proliferation of the glycogen-enriched epithelium, neovascularization, and collagen formation in the lamina propria, and improves natural lubrication and control of urination. This review aimed to review such data and to guide future research. A unique assembly of experts from around the globe, compiled and edited this manuscript based on a thorough literature review and personal experience. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:137-159, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yona Tadir
- Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Adrian Gaspar
- Department of Laser Surgery, Mendoza Hospital, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Ahinoam Lev-Sagie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Macrene Alexiades
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Red Alinsod
- South Coast Urogynecology, Laguna Beach, California
| | - Alex Bader
- Reconstruction & Cosmetic Gynecology, London, UK
| | - Alberto Calligaro
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Jorge A Elias
- Urogynecology and Aesthetic Gynecology Clinic, Boenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marco Gambaciani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Jorge E Gaviria
- Aesthetics and Laser Medical Educational Center, Korpo Laser, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Cheryl B Iglesia
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Patricia L Mwesigwa
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Stefano Salvatore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Scollo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cannizzaro Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - Nicola Zerbinati
- Department of Surgical and Morphological Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - John Stuart Nelson
- Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic, University of California, Irvine, California
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van der Meijden WI, Boffa MJ, Ter Harmsel WA, Kirtschig G, Lewis FM, Moyal-Barracco M, Tiplica GS, Sherrard J. 2016 European guideline for the management of vulval conditions. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2017; 31:925-941. [PMID: 28164373 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Vulval conditions may present to a variety of clinicians, such as dermatologists, gynaecologists and general practitioners. Women with these conditions are best managed by a multidisciplinary approach, which includes clear referral pathways between disciplines or access to a specialist multidisciplinary vulval service. Informed consent is a prerequisite for all examinations, investigations and treatments. Consent is particularly important for intimate examinations of the anogenital area, and a chaperone should be offered in all cases. All efforts should be made to maintain a patient's dignity. Depending on symptoms and risk factors, screening for sexually transmitted infections (STI) should be considered. If the patient presents with vulval itch, particularly if also complaining of increased vaginal discharge, vulvaginal candidiasis should be excluded. Sexual dysfunction should be considered in all patients with vulval complaints, either as the cause of the symptoms or secondary to symptoms, and assessed if appropriate. This guideline covers several aspects, such as diagnosis and treatment, of the more common vulval conditions (relatively) often encountered at vulval clinics, i.e. vulval dermatitis (eczema), psoriasis, lichen simplex chronicus, lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, vulvodynia and vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M J Boffa
- Department of Dermatology, Sir Paul Boffa Hospital, Floriana, Malta
| | - W A Ter Harmsel
- Department of Gynaecology, Roosevelt kliniek, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - G Kirtschig
- University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - F M Lewis
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London and Frimley Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - M Moyal-Barracco
- Department of Dermatology, Tarnier-Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - G S Tiplica
- Dermatology 2, Colentina Clinical Hospital, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - J Sherrard
- Department of Sexual Health, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Abstract
Vulvodynia refers to pain in the vulva of at least 3 months’ duration in the absence of a recognized underlying cause. Provoked, localized vestibulodynia is the term used to describe superficial pain confined to the vulvar vestibule, provoked by touch. This review will focus on provoked vestibulodynia with regard to its suggested causative factors and will discuss the role of inflammation, vulvovaginal infections, mucosal nerve fiber proliferation, hormonal associations, central pain mechanisms, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, and genetic factors. Clinical observations, epidemiological studies, and data from basic research emphasize the heterogeneity of vulvar pain syndromes. There is a critical need to perform prospective, longitudinal studies that will allow better diagnostic criteria and subgrouping of patients that would lead to improvements in our understanding of provoked vestibulodynia and its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahinoam Lev-Sagie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Steven S Witkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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2015 ISSVD, ISSWSH and IPPS Consensus Terminology and Classification of Persistent Vulvar Pain and Vulvodynia. Obstet Gynecol 2016; 127:745-751. [PMID: 27008217 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000001359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In 2014, the executive council of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease, the boards of directors of the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health, and the International Pelvic Pain Society acknowledged the need to revise the current terminology of vulvar pain, on the basis of the significant increase in high-quality etiologic studies published in the last decade. MATERIALS AND METHODS The new terminology was achieved in the following 4 steps. The first involved a terminology consensus conference with representatives of the 3 societies, held in April 2015. Then, an analysis of the relevant published studies was used to establish a level of evidence for each factor associated with vulvodynia. The terminology was amended on the basis of feedback from members of the societies. Finally, each society's board accepted the new terminology. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS In 2015,the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease, International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health, and International Pelvic Pain Society adopted a new vulvar pain and vulvodynia terminology that acknowledges the complexity of the clinical presentation and pathophysiology involved in vulvar pain and vulvodynia, and incorporates new information derived from evidence-based studies conducted since the last terminology published in 2003.
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Papoutsis D, Haefner HK, Crum CP, Opipari AW, Reed BD. Vestibular Mast Cell Density in Vulvodynia: A Case-Controlled Study. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2016; 20:275-9. [PMID: 27224531 PMCID: PMC4920700 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify whether mast cell densities in vulvar biopsies from the vestibule are associated with vulvodynia. METHODS We enrolled 100 women aged 19 to 59 years with confirmed vulvodynia cases, 100 racially matched controls, and 100 black control women. All had vulvar biopsies performed at the 7 o'clock position of the vestibule, which were then immunostained to detect c-KIT protein. The numbers of c-KIT positive mast cells per ×400 magnification field were manually counted, and t tests and logistic regression were used to assess the association with case-control status. RESULTS Of the biopsies, 235 were adequate samples for c-KIT testing for mast cells. The mast cell density was substantially lower in black control women (13.9 ± 10.9) in comparison to white control women (22.5 ± 13.2 p < 0.001): hence the analysis was confined to white cases and racially matched control women. Compared with racially matched controls, cases were younger, more likely to be married, and reported a higher household income. The average number of mast cells per ×400 magnification field overall was 19.1 ± 13.2 (range, 0-62). There was no difference in the mast cell count between racially matched cases (22.4 ± 13.9 per ×400 field) and controls (22.5 ± 13.2) in either the univariate or multivariable analyses. Within the group of cases, there was no difference in mast cell density based on the presence or absence of a variety of urogenital symptoms. CONCLUSIONS No difference in mast cell density in biopsies of the vestibule was found between white cases and racially matched controls. Black control women have a lower mast cell density compared with white control women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Papoutsis
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals NHS Trust, Shrewsbury, UK.; 2Center for Vulvar Diseases, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; 3Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; and 4Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Falsetta ML, Foster DC, Bonham AD, Phipps RP. A review of the available clinical therapies for vulvodynia management and new data implicating proinflammatory mediators in pain elicitation. BJOG 2016; 124:210-218. [PMID: 27312009 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Localised provoked vulvodynia (LPV) is a common, chronic, and disabling condition: patients experience profound pain and a diminished quality of life. The aetiologic origins of vulvodynia are poorly understood, yet recent evidence suggests a link to site-specific inflammatory responses. Fibroblasts isolated from the vestibule of LPV patients are sensitive to proinflammatory stimuli and copiously produce pain-associated proinflammatory mediators (IL-6 and PGE2 ). Although LPV is a multifactorial disorder, understanding vulvar inflammation and targeting the inflammatory response should lead to treatment advances, especially for patients exhibiting signs of inflammation. NFκB (already targeted clinically) or other inflammatory components may be suitable therapeutic targets. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Vulvodynia is a poorly understood, prevalent, and serious women's health issue requiring better understanding to improve therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Falsetta
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - D C Foster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - A D Bonham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - R P Phipps
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
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2015 ISSVD, ISSWSH, and IPPS Consensus Terminology and Classification of Persistent Vulvar Pain and Vulvodynia. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2016; 20:126-30. [DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Bornstein J, Goldstein AT, Stockdale CK, Bergeron S, Pukall C, Zolnoun D, Coady D, Bornstein J, Goldstein A, Zolnoun D, Bachmann GA, Bissonnette I, Bergeron S, Starke NB, Burrows L, Coady D, Dellon AL, Farmer M, Foster D, Fox S, Goldstein I, Gracely R, Haefner HK, Kellogg-Spadt S, Marvel R, Barracco MM, Morrison P, Parish S, Prendergast S, Pukall C, Reed B, Stockdale C, Boardman L, Goldstein L, Mate P. 2015 ISSVD, ISSWSH, and IPPS Consensus Terminology and Classification of Persistent Vulvar Pain and Vulvodynia. J Sex Med 2016; 13:607-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.02.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Collier F, Staumont-Salle D, Delesalle F, Vinatier D, Bregegere S, Martin C. Nouveau regard sur les vulvodynies spontanées. SEXOLOGIES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2016.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Disease-related differences in resting-state networks: a comparison between localized provoked vulvodynia, irritable bowel syndrome, and healthy control subjects. Pain 2016; 156:809-819. [PMID: 25735001 DOI: 10.1097/01.j.pain.0000461289.65571.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Localized provoked vulvodynia (LPVD) affects approximately 16% of the female population, but biological mechanisms underlying symptoms remain unknown. Like in other often comorbid chronic pain disorders, altered sensory processing and modulation of pain, including central sensitization, dysregulation of endogenous pain modulatory systems, and attentional enhancement of pain perception, have been implicated. The aim of this study was to test whether regions of interest showing differences in LPVD compared to healthy control subjects (HCs) in structural and evoked-pain neuroimaging studies, also show alterations during rest when compared with HCs and a chronic pain control group (irritable bowel syndrome [IBS]). Functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed during resting state in 87 age-matched premenopausal females (29 LPVD, 29 HCs, and 29 IBS). Group-independent component analysis and general linear models were applied to investigate group differences in the intrinsic connectivity of regions comprising sensorimotor, salience, and default mode resting-state networks. Subjects with LPVD showed substantial alterations in the intrinsic connectivity of these networks compared with HCs and IBS. The intrinsic connectivity of many of the regions showing group differences during rest were moderately associated with clinical symptom reports in LPVD. Findings were robust to controlling for affect and medication usage. The current findings indicate that subjects with LPVD have alterations in the intrinsic connectivity of regions comprising the sensorimotor, salience, and default mode networks. Although shared brain mechanisms between different chronic pain disorders have been postulated, the current findings suggest that some alterations in functional connectivity may show disease specificity.
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