Vulvodynia: Development of a psychosexual profile

Abstract

<h4>Objective</h4>To assess the psychosexual profile of vulvodynia patients, focusing on the age at onset and age distribution, and to analyze the impact of vulvodynia on the emotional, social and sexual well-being of this patient population.<h4>Study design</h4>A retrospective review was performed of patient files consisting of questionnaires, psychometric tests, sexual history, electromyographic assessments and clinical notes.<h4>Results</h4>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 at 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 at first sexual intercourse and number of sexual partners, even when controlling for age (p < 0.001). Marriage provided an effective buffer against depression and anxiety.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Vulvodynia can have an early onset and affect social relationships. Given the psychologic distress associated with vulvodynia, early diagnosis and treatment of the medical aspects are essential, as is focusing on the psychosexual implications of this pain syndrome.