Current Practices On Diagnosis And Management Of Women With Vulvodynia

Abstract

\n Introduction and hypothesis: To describe clinical characteristics, previous medical assessment, past treatments and vulvar pain relief among women with vulvodynia.Methods: Brazilian women with vulvodynia (n=144) were assessed for vaginal infection and vulvar pain intensity by means of a cotton swab test based on a numerical rate scale (NRS). All women answered the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire and a structured instrument about present vulvar symptoms and previously experienced treatments. Vulvar pain relief achieved with previous treatments was qualified through a 4-point Likert-scale.Results: Previous vulvar pain duration was 5.8 (±4) years. More than 50% consulted with three or more physicians and 49% remained without a conclusive diagnosis. Diagnosis and treatment vulvovaginal infection was very common. The most commonly used treatments were lubricants (66%), topical anesthetics (36%) and vulvar care techniques (36%). All of then provided only low pain relief. Physical therapy and oral gabapentin provided strong vulvar pain relief.Conclusion: Prolonged duration of vulvar pain, multiple visits to healthcare professionals and poor relief of pain are common aspects in the clinical history of women with vulvodynia. Vulvovaginal symptoms other than pain are common, highlighting the importance of the screening tests in order to avoid misdiagnosis.Brief summary: Women suffering with vulvodynia symptoms are frequently missdiagnosed. This study described symptoms, diagnosis and treatment received by women with chronic vulvar pain.