By Marek Jantos and Nicholas R Burns

Abstract

Objectives: To asses the psychosexual profile of vulvodynia patients focusing on the age of onset and age distribution. To analyze the impact of vulvodynia on the emotional, social and sexual well-being of this patient population.

Study Design: A retrospective review of patient files consisting of questionnaires, psychometric tests, sexual history, electromyographic assessments and clinical notes was performed.

Results: The highest prevalence of vulvodynia in this clinical sample occurred before the age of 25 years; 75% of the 744 patients were under the age of 34. A comparison of primary and secondary vulvodynia patients showed the average age of symptom onset to be 19.1 years for primary cases and 25.0 years for secondary cases. There were significant differences in duration of symptoms; age of first sexual intercourse; and number of sexual partners, even when controlling for age (p<.001). Marriage provided an effective buffer against depression and anxiety.

Conclusion: Vulvodynia can have an early onset and affect social relationships. Given the psychological distress associated with vulvodynia, it is essential for early diagnosis and treatment of not only the medical aspects but to also focus on the psychosexual implications of this pain syndrome.

Keywords: Vulvodynia, anxiety, depression, psychosexual.

Reprinted by permission from The Journal of Reproductive Medicine, Vol 52, Number 1, January 2007.