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Stragapede E, Huber JD, Corsini-Munt S. My Catastrophizing and Your Catastrophizing: Dyadic Associations of Pain Catastrophizing and the Physical, Psychological, and Relational Well-being of Persons With Endometriosis and Their Partners. Clin J Pain 2024; 40:221-229. [PMID: 38229502 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000001193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Endometriosis, a painful chronic gynecologic condition, contributes to disruptions in multiple areas of life for both those affected and their partner. Pain catastrophizing has been associated with worse pain outcomes and quality of life for women with endometriosis and with more cognitive load for partners. Examining both partners' pain catastrophizing dyadically with our variables of interest will enhance understanding of its associations with the distressing nature of experiencing and responding to pain during sex for couples with endometriosis. METHODS Persons with endometriosis experiencing pain during sex and their partners (n=52 couples; 104 individuals) completed online self-report measures of pain catastrophizing, depressive symptoms, sexual satisfaction, and partner responses to pain. Persons with endometriosis reported on pain during sexual activity. Analyses were guided by the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model. RESULTS Persons with endometriosis' pain catastrophizing was associated with their higher pain intensity and unpleasantness during sex. When persons with endometriosis reported more pain catastrophizing, they were less sexually satisfied and reported their partners responded more negatively to their pain. When partners reported higher catastrophizing, they were more depressed and responded more negatively to the pain. DISCUSSION Consistent with the Communal Coping Model of pain catastrophizing, although meant to elicit support from the environment, the often-deleterious cognitive process of magnifying, ruminating, and feeling helpless about one's pain (or one's partner's pain) is associated with poorer outcomes for the individual with pain and their romantic partner. Implications for pain management include the relevance of involving the partner and attending to the pain cognitions of both members of the couple.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan D Huber
- Huber Medicine Professional Corporation, Private Practice Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Alinajimi F, Deldar Z, Dehghani M, Khatibi A. Emotion regulation mediates the relationship between family caregivers' pain-related beliefs and patients' coping strategies. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:983350. [PMID: 36824059 PMCID: PMC9941146 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.983350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In order to tailor more effective interventions and minimize the burden of chronic pain, it is critical to identify the interaction and contribution of social and psychological factors in pain. One of the important psychological factors in pain management is related to the choice of pain coping strategies in chronic pain patients. Social resources, including family caregivers' pain attitudes-beliefs, can influence pain coping strategies in chronic pain patients. Moreover, one key factor that may intervene in the relationship between caregivers' pain attitudes-beliefs and the patients' coping strategies is the emotion regulation strategies. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of emotion regulation strategies of chronic pain patients and their family caregivers on the association between caregivers' pain attitudes-beliefs and pain coping strategies of chronic pain patients. Methods: We recruited 200 chronic musculoskeletal pain patients and their family caregivers. Chronic pain patients responded to measures of pain coping and emotion regulation strategies while family caregivers completed questionnaires related to their attitude toward pain and emotion regulation of themselves. Results: There is an association between caregivers' pain attitudes-beliefs and pain coping strategies in patients with chronic musculoskeletal. Moreover, the structural equation modeling revealed that the emotion regulation of both patients and family caregivers mediate the relationship between the caregivers' pain attitudes-beliefs and pain coping strategies of patients with chronic musculoskeletal. Conclusions: The social context of pain, including the effect of family caregivers' responses to the patient's pain, is a critical pain source that is suggested to affect coping strategies in patients. These findings suggest an association between pain attitudes-beliefs in family caregivers and pain coping strategies in patients. Moreover, these results showed that the emotion regulation of both patients and their family caregivers mediates this association.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoha Deldar
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada,Department of Anatomy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, QC, Canada
| | - Mohsen Dehghani
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Health, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khatibi
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain, School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom,Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom,Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Ali Khatibi
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Vittrup G, Westmark S, Riis J, Mørup L, Heilesen T, Jensen D, Melgaard D. The Impact of Psychosexual Counseling in Women With Lichen Sclerosus: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2022; 26:258-264. [PMID: 35333024 PMCID: PMC9232275 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lichen sclerosus (LS) can affect sexuality and quality of life (QoL). OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of psychosexual counseling in women with LS. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred fifty-eight women 18 years or older, newly diagnosed with LS, and referred to North Denmark Regional Hospital from January 2018 to November 2019 were included. The women were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to usual care or an intervention group receiving usual care and up to 8 individual consultations with a specialist in sexual counseling. Spouses or partners were encouraged to participate. The women filled out the questionnaires Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Dermatology Life Quality Index, and the WHO-5 Well-Being Index at baseline and after 6 months. RESULTS The controls presented a mean score of 14.8 ± 8.7 and the intervention group presented a mean score of 12.8 ± 8.9 at FSFI. At follow-up, the controls had an FSFI score of 15.2 ± 9.2 and the intervention group revealed an FSFI score of 18.3 ± 9.5. Both groups experienced improved sexual functioning and for the intervention group the increase was significant ( p < .001).At baseline, the Dermatology Life Quality Index mean score was 8.9 ± 5.6 for the control group and 9.3 ± 6.1 for the intervention group. At follow-up, the controls revealed a score of 8.6 ± 5.5 and the intervention group a score of 6.8 ± 5.8. The intervention group reached a significantly higher degree of QoL than the controls ( p = .008). CONCLUSIONS Psychosexual counseling has a significant impact on sexual functioning and QoL in women with LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitte Vittrup
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
| | - Signe Westmark
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
| | - Johannes Riis
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Mørup
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
| | - Tina Heilesen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
| | - Doris Jensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
| | - Dorte Melgaard
- Centre for Clinical Research, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Abed M, Raeisi Z, Rezaei-Jamalouei H, Ansari Shahidi M. Promoting sexual self-efficacy of men with spinal cord injury using PLISSIT model. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2020.1789893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Abed
- Department of Psychology, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
| | - Zohreh Raeisi
- Department of Psychology, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
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Meana M, Binik YM. The Biopsychosocial Puzzle of Painful Sex. Annu Rev Clin Psychol 2022; 18:471-495. [PMID: 35216521 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-072720-014549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Genital pain associated with sex is a prevalent and distressing problem with a complex research and clinical profile. This article reviews the historical context of the "sexual pain disorders" and the circuitous trajectory that has led from the first mention of painful sex in ancient documents to the latest diagnostic category of genito-pelvic pain penetration disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as well as in other existing and proposed nomenclatures. Prominent etiologic research and emergent theoretical models are critically assessed, as is the latest treatment outcome research of note. Finally, the review points to a number of extant needs in the research and clinical effort, including an integrated biopsychosocial and multidisciplinary approach, randomized clinical trials, targeting of treatment barriers, and expansion of the entire enterprise to include populations that have not been considered. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, Volume 18 is May 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Meana
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA;
| | - Yitzchak M Binik
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Cyr MP, Dostie R, Camden C, Dumoulin C, Bessette P, Pina A, Gotlieb WH, Lapointe-Milot K, Mayrand MH, Morin M. Improvements following multimodal pelvic floor physical therapy in gynecological cancer survivors suffering from pain during sexual intercourse: Results from a one-year follow-up mixed-method study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262844. [PMID: 35077479 PMCID: PMC8789131 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large proportion of gynecological cancer survivors suffer from pain during sexual intercourse, also known as dyspareunia. Following a multimodal pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) treatment, a reduction in pain and improvement in psychosexual outcomes were found in the short term, but no study thus far has examined whether these changes are sustained over time. PURPOSE To examine the improvements in pain, sexual functioning, sexual distress, body image concerns, pain anxiety, pain catastrophizing, painful intercourse self-efficacy, depressive symptoms and pelvic floor disorder symptoms in gynecological cancer survivors with dyspareunia after PFPT, and to explore women's perceptions of treatment effects at one-year follow-up. METHODS This mixed-method study included 31 gynecological cancer survivors affected by dyspareunia. The women completed a 12-week PFPT treatment comprising education, manual therapy and pelvic floor muscle exercises. Quantitative data were collected using validated questionnaires at baseline, post-treatment and one-year follow-up. As for qualitative data, semi-structured interviews were conducted at one-year follow-up to better understand women's perception and experience of treatment effects. RESULTS Significant improvements were found from baseline to one-year follow-up on all quantitative outcomes (P ≤ 0.028). Moreover, no changes were found from post-treatment to one-year follow-up, supporting that the improvements were sustained at follow-up. Qualitative data highlighted that reduction in pain, improvement in sexual functioning and reduction in urinary symptoms were the most meaningful effects perceived by participants. Women expressed that these effects resulted from positive biological, psychological and social changes attributable to multimodal PFPT. Adherence was also perceived to influence treatment outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that the short-term improvements following multimodal PFPT are sustained and meaningful for gynecological cancer survivors with dyspareunia one year after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pierre Cyr
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Rehabilitation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rosalie Dostie
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Rehabilitation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chantal Camden
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Rehabilitation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chantale Dumoulin
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Paul Bessette
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Annick Pina
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Walter Henry Gotlieb
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute of the Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Korine Lapointe-Milot
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Hélène Mayrand
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mélanie Morin
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Rehabilitation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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Banbury S, Moneta G, Chandler C. An exploratory study examining the relationship between sexual self efficacy and premature ejaculation mediated by depression, anxiety and sexual fantasy among a British cohort. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2021.1932796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Banbury
- Psychology Department, School of Social Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
| | - Giovanni Moneta
- Psychology Department, School of Social Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
| | - Chris Chandler
- Psychology Department, School of Social Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
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Rosen NO. The Importance of Interpersonal Context When Conceptualizing Sexual Pain After Female Genital Cutting. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:1887-1890. [PMID: 31372793 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01523-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, 1355 Oxford Street, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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Cyr MP, Dumoulin C, Bessette P, Pina A, Gotlieb WH, Lapointe-Milot K, Mayrand MH, Morin M. A Prospective Single-Arm Study Evaluating the Effects of a Multimodal Physical Therapy Intervention on Psychosexual Outcomes in Women With Dyspareunia After Gynecologic Cancer. J Sex Med 2021; 18:946-954. [PMID: 33931347 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dyspareunia affects most women after treatment for gynecologic malignancies. However, to date, evidence-based interventions remain limited and no study has examined the effects of multimodal physical therapy on psychosexual outcomes in these patients. AIM To assess the effects of multimodal physical therapy on psychosexual outcomes including sexual distress, body image concerns, pain anxiety, pain catastrophizing, pain self-efficacy and depressive symptoms in women with dyspareunia after treatment for gynecologic malignancies. METHODS Thirty-one gynecologic cancer survivors with dyspareunia enrolled in this prospective single-arm interventional study. The participants undertook 12 weekly sessions of physical therapy incorporating education, pelvic floor muscle exercises with biofeedback, manual therapy and home exercises. Outcome measures were evaluated pre- and post-treatment. Paired t-tests were conducted to investigate the changes from pre-treatment (P-value ˂ 0.05) while effect sizes (Cohen's d) were calculated to measure the magnitude of the change. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sexual distress (Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised), body image concerns (Body Image Scale), pain anxiety (Pain Anxiety Symptoms Scale), pain catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Scale), pain self-efficacy (Painful Intercourse Self-Efficacy Scale) and depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory-II). RESULTS Significant changes were found from pre- to post-treatment for all psychosexual outcomes. Women reported reductions in sexual distress (P ˂ 0.001, d = 1.108), body image concerns (P ˂ 0.001, d = 0.829), pain anxiety (P ˂ 0.001, d = 0.980), pain catastrophizing (P ˂ 0.001, d = 0.968) and depression symptoms (P = 0.002, d = 0.636) with an increase in pain self-efficacy (P ˂ 0.001, d ≥ 0.938) following the intervention. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The results suggest that multimodal physical therapy significantly improves sexual distress, body image concerns, pain anxiety, pain catastrophizing, pain self-efficacy and depressive symptoms in our sample of women with dyspareunia after treatment for gynecologic malignancies. The medium to large effect sizes obtained with the high proportion of women presenting meaningful changes according to the known minimal clinically important difference or clinical cut-off underlines the significance of these effects. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS The current study used validated questionnaires to assess the psychosexual outcomes of a well-designed physical therapy intervention using multiple modalities to address the multifaceted aspect of dyspareunia in cancer survivors. This study did not include a control group, which may limit drawing definitive conclusions. CONCLUSION Findings showed that multimodal physical therapy yielded significant improvements in psychosexual outcomes in gynecologic cancer survivors with dyspareunia. A randomized controlled trial is indicated to confirm these results. Cyr M-P, Dumoulin C, Bessette P, et al. A Prospective Single-Arm Study Evaluating the Effects of a Multimodal Physical Therapy Intervention on Psychosexual Outcomes in Women With Dyspareunia After Gynecologic Cancer. J Sex Med 2021;18:946-954.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pierre Cyr
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada; Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chantale Dumoulin
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Research Center of the Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Paul Bessette
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Annick Pina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Walter Henry Gotlieb
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute of the Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Korine Lapointe-Milot
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Hélène Mayrand
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mélanie Morin
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada; Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada.
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Abstract
Vulvodynia is a condition that occurs in 8-10% of women of all ages and is characterized by pain at the vulva that is present during sexual and/or non-sexual situations. Diagnosis is established through careful medical history and pelvic examination, including the cotton-swab test. The onset and maintenance of vulvodynia involves a complex interplay of peripheral and central pain mechanisms, pelvic floor muscle and autonomic dysfunction, anxiety, depression and childhood maltreatment as well as cognitive-affective, behavioural and interpersonal factors. Given the absence of empirically supported treatment guidelines, a stepwise approach of pelvic floor physical therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy as well as medical management is suggested, with surgery as the last option. Vulvodynia has a negative effect on the quality of life of women and their partners, and imposes a profound personal and societal economic burden. In addition, women with vulvodynia are more likely to report other chronic pain conditions, which further alters their quality of life. Future efforts should aim to increase girls', women's and healthcare professionals' education and awareness of vulvodynia, phenotype different subgroups of women based on biopsychosocial characteristics among more diverse samples, conduct longitudinal studies and improve clinical trial designs.
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Rossi V, Viozzi E, Tripodi F, Porpora M, Simonelli C, Nimbi F. Endometriosis, sexuality and satisfaction: A pilot study on women with and without infertility. SEXOLOGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Corsini-Munt S, Bergeron S, Rosen NO. Self-Focused Reasons for Having Sex: Associations Between Sexual Goals and Women's Pain and Sexual and Psychological Well-being for Couples Coping With Provoked Vestibulodynia. J Sex Med 2020; 17:975-984. [PMID: 32147313 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For couples coping with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD), interpersonal sexual goals are associated with sexual and psychological functioning as well as women's pain during intercourse, however, self-focused sexual goals (eg, having sex for personal pleasure, having sex to avoid feeling bad about oneself) have not been studied in this clinical population. AIM The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between self-focused approach and avoidance sexual goals and women's pain during intercourse and sexual satisfaction and depressive symptoms for both women and their partners. METHODS Women diagnosed with PVD (N = 69) and their partners completed measures of self-focused sexual goals, sexual satisfaction, and depressive symptoms. Women also reported on pain experienced during sexual intercourse. OUTCOMES Outcomes included the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction, the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and a Numerical Rating Scale of pain during sexual intercourse. RESULTS When women reported higher self-focused approach sexual goals, they also reported lower pain intensity. Women's higher self-focused avoidance sexual goals were associated with their own higher depressive symptoms, whereas men's higher self-focused approach goals were associated with their own higher depressive symptoms. When controlling for frequency of sexual intercourse, there were no significant associations between women or partners' sexual goals and sexual satisfaction. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Within a clinical context where many interpersonal pressures for sex exist, interventions should target self-focused sexual goals alongside interpersonal sexual goals to improve pain and psychological adjustment. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This is the first study to examine self-focused sexual goals among women with PVD and their partners. This study is cross-sectional, and the direction of associations cannot be inferred. Couples were in mixed-sex relationships, and results may not generalize to same-sex couples. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that self-focused goals are relevant to the psychological adjustment of women with PVD and their male partners and for women's pain. Corsini-Munt S, Bergeron S, Rosen NO. Self-Focused Reasons for Having Sex: Associations Between Sexual Goals and Women's Pain and Sexual and Psychological Well-being for Couples Coping With Provoked Vestibulodynia. J Sex Med 2020;17:975-984.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada; Departments of Psychology & Neuroscience and Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Rossi MA, Maxwell JA, Rosen NO. Biased Partner Perceptions of Women's Pain Self-Efficacy in Postpartum Pain During Intercourse: A Dyadic Longitudinal Examination. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2020; 21:1047-1059. [PMID: 32006700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Postpartum pain during intercourse is a prevalent and distressing problem that has substantial consequences for affected couples. Partner perceptions-such as how partners perceive women's pain self-efficacy-contribute to an individual's pain experience. This study examined whether partners under- or over-estimate women's intercourse pain self-efficacy at 3-months postpartum and the implications of this bias for women's pain and couples' sexual functioning at 3- and 6-months postpartum. Women who reported pain during intercourse and their partners (N = 89 couples) completed online measures assessing pain self-efficacy (own or partner perceptions), pain intensity, and sexual functioning at 3- and 6-months postpartum. Analyses were based on the Truth and Bias Model of Judgement and Response Surface Analysis. Partners were accurate in their estimates of women's pain self-efficacy (ie, their estimates were positively correlated with women's), but they also underestimated it by perceiving women to be less efficacious than women themselves reported. When couples showed greater agreement for lower levels of pain self-efficacy at 3 months, women reported greater pain intensity and both partners reported poorer sexual functioning at 3- and 6-months postpartum. Findings may inform interventions that promote pain self-efficacy to improve partner support and couples' sexual functioning. PERSPECTIVE: When women report-and their partners perceive-low levels of women's self-efficacy for managing painful intercourse, women report greater postpartum pain during intercourse and couples indicate poorer sexual functioning. These findings suggest that interventions aimed at promoting couples' agreement at high pain self-efficacy may improve their adjustment to postpartum pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan A Rossi
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jessica A Maxwell
- Department of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Aerts L, Grangier L, Dallenbach P, Wenger JM, Streuli I, Bianchi-Demicheli F, Pluchino N. Understanding sexual pain in endometriosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 71:224-234. [DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.19.04379-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Rosen NO, Bergeron S. Genito-Pelvic Pain Through a Dyadic Lens: Moving Toward an Interpersonal Emotion Regulation Model of Women's Sexual Dysfunction. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:440-461. [PMID: 30252510 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2018.1513987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Researchers and clinicians alike widely acknowledge the inherently interpersonal nature of women's sexual dysfunctions given that both partners impact and are impacted by these difficulties. Yet theoretical models for understanding the role of interpersonal factors in women's sexual dysfunctions are severely lacking and have the potential to guide future research and inform more effective interventions. The most widely studied sexual dysfunction in women that has espoused a dyadic approach by including both members of affected couples is genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD). In this article we use the example of GPPPD to introduce a novel interpersonal emotion regulation model of women's sexual dysfunction. We first review current knowledge regarding distal and proximal interpersonal factors in GPPPD. Then, we describe our theoretical model and consider relevant pain and sex-related research on emotion regulation processes-emotional awareness, expression, and experience-in the context of GPPPD, including sexual function, satisfaction, and distress. Next, we review how existing theories from the fields of chronic pain and sex and relationships research have informed our model and how our model further builds on them. Finally, we discuss the implications of our model and its applications, including to other sexual dysfunctions in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- a Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , IWK Health Centre
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Moradzadeh A, Jamnagerwalla J, Eilber KS, Anger JT, Lenore Ackerman A. High Catastrophizing in Subjects With Painful Mesh Complications Leads to Worse Outcomes. Urology 2019; 124:83-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2018.05.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Meints SM, Edwards RR. Evaluating psychosocial contributions to chronic pain outcomes. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 87:168-182. [PMID: 29408484 PMCID: PMC6067990 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The biopsychosocial model of pain dominates the scientific community's understanding of chronic pain. Indeed, the biopsychosocial approach describes pain and disability as a multidimensional, dynamic integration among physiological, psychological, and social factors that reciprocally influence one another. In this article, we review two categories of studies that evaluate the contributions of psychosocial factors to the experience of chronic pain. First, we consider general psychosocial variables including distress, trauma, and interpersonal factors. Additionally, we discuss pain-specific psychosocial variables including catastrophizing, expectations, and pain-related coping. Together, we present a diverse array of psychological, social, and contextual factors and highlight the need to consider their roles in the development, maintenance, and treatment of chronic pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Meints
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Management Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA.
| | - R R Edwards
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Management Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
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Fear-avoidance and Pelvic Floor Muscle Function are Associated With Pain Intensity in Women With Vulvodynia. Clin J Pain 2018. [DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000000604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Couple Sex Therapy Versus Group Therapy for Women with Genito-pelvic Pain. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-018-0154-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Pâquet M, Rosen NO, Steben M, Mayrand MH, Santerre-Baillargeon M, Bergeron S. Daily Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms in Couples Coping With Vulvodynia: Associations With Women's Pain, Women's Sexual Function, and Both Partners' Sexual Distress. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2018; 19:552-561. [PMID: 29309891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2017.12.264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Vulvodynia is a idiopathic vulvovaginal pain condition that interferes with the sexual and mental health of affected couples. Research has underscored that psychological factors, such as anxiety and depression, are associated with its development and maintenance and related sexual impairment. However, the daily role of anxiety and depressive symptoms in the pain and sexuality outcomes of couples coping with vulvodynia is not well understood. Using a dyadic daily experience method, 127 women (mean age = 26.21, SD = 6.24 years) diagnosed with vulvodynia and their partners (mean age = 27.44, SD = 7.29 years) reported on anxiety and depressive symptoms, pain, sexual function, and sexual distress over a period of 8 weeks. Multilevel modeling was used to examine how daily deviations in anxiety and depressive symptoms from a participant's own mean were associated with pain, sexual function, and sexual distress. On days of sexual activity, when women reported higher anxiety and depressive symptoms (compared with their average), they reported greater pain and lower sexual function. On days of sexual activity, when women reported higher depressive symptoms, they reported greater levels of sexual distress, and when partners reported higher anxiety and depressive symptoms, women as well as partners reported greater levels of sexual distress. Results suggest that daily anxiety and depressive symptoms play a role in women's experience of vulvodynia-related pain, women's sexual function, and the couple's sexual distress. Targeting daily anxiety and depressive symptoms could enhance the efficacy of psychological interventions for vulvodynia. PERSPECTIVE This article examines the daily associations between anxiety and depressive symptoms, women's pain, sexual function, and sexual distress among couples coping with vulvodynia. Findings contribute to refine the biopsychosocial model of pain, showing that daily affective factors are associated with pain and sexual well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Pâquet
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Marc Steben
- Clinique A rue McGill, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marie-Hélène Mayrand
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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Rosen NO, Dewitte M, Merwin K, Bergeron S. Interpersonal Goals and Well-Being in Couples Coping with Genito-Pelvic Pain. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:2007-2019. [PMID: 28028667 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-016-0877-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
In the context of genito-pelvic pain, consideration of interpersonal goals is particularly relevant given that couples' distress is often predicated upon the relational setting. However, relationship goals have not been examined in this population. We investigated (1) the associations between relationship goals and women's pain during intercourse as well as the sexual, relational, and psychological well-being of women with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) and their partners and (2) the moderating role of sexual goals in these associations. Women with PVD (N = 134) and their partners completed measures of relationship goals, sexual goals, sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and depressive symptoms. Women also reported on their average pain intensity during intercourse. Women with stronger relationship approach goals reported more sexual satisfaction. When the partner pursued more relationship approach goals, both women and partners reported more sexual and relationship satisfaction and partners reported less depression. Stronger relationship avoidance goals in the partner were associated with less sexual satisfaction in women. Several significant interactions showed that the combination of relationship and sexual approach goals was associated with greater relationship and sexual satisfaction, and fewer depressive symptoms, whereas the combination of relationship and sexual avoidance goals was related to lower relationship satisfaction as well as to greater pain during intercourse for women. Targeting relationship approach and avoidance goals as well as those goals specific to sexual activity may improve the quality and efficacy of couples-based psychological interventions for PVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie Univeristy, 1355 Oxford St., P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Marieke Dewitte
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kathleen Merwin
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie Univeristy, 1355 Oxford St., P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, PQ, Canada
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Corsini-Munt S, Bergeron S, Rosen NO, Beaulieu N, Steben M. A Dyadic Perspective on Childhood Maltreatment for Women With Provoked Vestibulodynia and Their Partners: Associations With Pain and Sexual and Psychosocial Functioning. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2017; 54:308-318. [PMID: 27100406 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2016.1158229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Childhood maltreatment is robustly associated with adult-onset vulvodynia, a common form of female genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder. However, little is known about the impact of childhood maltreatment on current sexual, psychological, and relationship adaptation for couples with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD). This study examined the associations between childhood maltreatment and sexual and psychosocial functioning and pain in women with PVD, the most common subtype of vulvodynia, and their partners. A total of 49 couples (Mage women = 27.80, SD = 6.05; Mage men = 30.04; SD = 6.48) with PVD completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), as well as measures of sexual functioning, couple satisfaction, and anxiety. Women also reported on their pain during intercourse. Analyses were guided by the actor-partner interdependence model. Women's higher reports of childhood maltreatment were associated with their lower sexual functioning and higher anxiety. Partners' higher reports of childhood maltreatment were associated with their lower sexual functioning, lower couple satisfaction, and higher anxiety, as well as women's lower couple satisfaction and higher anxiety. Both women's and partners' higher reports of childhood maltreatment were associated with higher affective pain for women. Findings suggest childhood maltreatment experienced by women with PVD and their partners should be considered as part of treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Natalie O Rosen
- b Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
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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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Zarski AC, Berking M, Ebert DD. Efficacy of Internet-Based Guided Treatment for Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Rationale, Treatment Protocol, and Design of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:260. [PMID: 29403395 PMCID: PMC5786827 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) not only adversely affects women's sexuality and sexual satisfaction but is also associated with a wide range of psychosocial consequences such as reduced quality of life and well-being, mental health comorbidities, and relationship distress. Evidence for effective treatment options is scarce. AIM This article describes the rationale, treatment protocol, and study design for a randomized controlled trial examining the efficacy of an Internet-based guided intervention for GPPPD. METHOD Two hundred women who meet the criteria for GPPPD and have not been able to experience sexual intercourse for at least the last 6 months will be recruited and randomly assigned either to the intervention group (IG) or a 6-month waitlist control group. Assessments take place at baseline (T1), peritreatment after completion of Session 5 in IG (T2), after completion of Session 8 or 12 weeks after randomization (T3), and after 6 months (T4). Data will be analyzed on an intention-to-treat and a completer basis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome will be sexual intercourse involving the insertion of the partner's penis at posttreatment. Secondary outcomes include, e.g., improved non-intercourse penetration, sexual functioning, dyadic stress coping, reduced fear of sexuality and negative penetration-related cognitions. Fear of sexuality, penetration-related cognitions, and exercise intensity will be assessed as mediators of intercourse in the IG. Sexual dysfunctions of partners will be measured at baseline (T1) and investigated as a potential moderator of the primary treatment outcome. DISCUSSION Given the burden associated with GPPPD and the need for specialized treatment, there is a surprising lack of evidence-based treatment options. This study aims to assess whether Internet-based interventions could contribute to closing this treatment gap. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS): DRKS00010228.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Carlotta Zarski
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Berking
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Daniel Ebert
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Edwards RR, Dworkin RH, Sullivan MD, Turk DC, Wasan AD. The Role of Psychosocial Processes in the Development and Maintenance of Chronic Pain. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2016; 17:T70-92. [PMID: 27586832 PMCID: PMC5012303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 458] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The recently proposed Analgesic, Anesthetic, and Addiction Clinical Trial Translations, Innovations, Opportunities, and Networks (ACTTION)-American Pain Society (APS) Pain Taxonomy (AAPT) provides an evidence-based, multidimensional, chronic pain classification system. Psychosocial factors play a crucial role within several dimensions of the taxonomy. In this article, we discuss the evaluation of psychosocial factors that influence the diagnosis and trajectory of chronic pain disorders. We review studies in individuals with a variety of persistent pain conditions, and describe evidence that psychosocial variables play key roles in conferring risk for the development of pain, in shaping long-term pain-related adjustment, and in modulating pain treatment outcomes. We consider "general" psychosocial variables such as negative affect, childhood trauma, and social support, as well as "pain-specific" psychosocial variables that include pain-related catastrophizing, self-efficacy for managing pain, and pain-related coping. Collectively, the complexity and profound variability in chronic pain highlights the need to better understand the multidimensional array of interacting forces that determine the trajectory of chronic pain conditions. PERSPECTIVE The AAPT is an evidence-based chronic pain classification system in which psychosocial concepts and processes are essential in understanding the development of chronic pain and its effects. In this article we review psychosocial processes that influence the onset, exacerbation, and maintenance of chronic pain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert R Edwards
- Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Robert H Dworkin
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York
| | - Mark D Sullivan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Dennis C Turk
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ajay D Wasan
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Quality of life and sexual satisfaction in women suffering from endometriosis: An Italian preliminary study. SEXOLOGIES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Rosen NO, Muise A, Bergeron S, Impett EA, Boudreau GK. Approach and Avoidance Sexual Goals in Couples with Provoked Vestibulodynia: Associations with Sexual, Relational, and Psychological Well-Being. J Sex Med 2015; 12:1781-90. [PMID: 26176989 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) is a prevalent vulvovaginal pain condition that is triggered primarily during sexual intercourse. PVD adversely impacts women's and their partners' sexual relationship and psychological well-being. Over 80% of women with PVD continue to have intercourse, possibly because of sexual goals that include wanting to pursue desirable outcomes (i.e., approach goals; such as a desire to maintain intimacy) and avoid negative outcomes (i.e., avoidance goals; such as avoiding a partner's disappointment). AIM The aim of this study was to investigate associations between approach and avoidance sexual goals and women's pain, as well as the sexual, relational, and psychological well-being of affected couples. METHODS Women with PVD (N = 107) and their partners completed measures of sexual goals, sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and depression. Women also completed measures of pain during intercourse and sexual functioning. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES (1) Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction Scale, (2) Dyadic Adjustment Scale-Revised or the Couple Satisfaction Index, (3) Beck Depression Inventory-II, (4) numerical rating scale of pain during intercourse, and (5) Female Sexual Function Index. RESULTS When women reported higher avoidance sexual goals, they reported lower sexual and relationship satisfaction, and higher levels of depressive symptoms. In addition, when partners of women reported higher avoidance sexual goals, they reported lower relationship satisfaction. When women reported higher approach sexual goals, they also reported higher sexual and relationship satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Targeting approach and avoidance sexual goals could enhance the quality and efficacy of psychological couple interventions for women with PVD and their partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Canada
| | - Amy Muise
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Emily A Impett
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, Canada
| | - Gillian K Boudreau
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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Davis SN, Bergeron S, Sadikaj G, Corsini-Munt S, Steben M. Partner Behavioral Responses to Pain Mediate the Relationship Between Partner Pain Cognitions and Pain Outcomes in Women With Provoked Vestibulodynia. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2015; 16:549-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2015.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Revised: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Boerner KE, Rosen NO. Acceptance of vulvovaginal pain in women with provoked vestibulodynia and their partners: associations with pain, psychological, and sexual adjustment. J Sex Med 2015; 12:1450-62. [PMID: 25869256 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) is a common vulvovaginal pain condition associated with negative psychological and sexual consequences for affected women and their sexual partners. Greater pain acceptance has been found to be associated with better functional and psychological outcomes in individuals with chronic pain, and acceptance-based strategies are being increasingly incorporated into treatment protocols. The present study is a novel investigation of pain acceptance in PVD couples. AIM The aim was to examine the associations between acceptance of vulvovaginal pain and women's pain during intercourse, as well as the psychological and sexual adjustment of both women with PVD and their partners. METHODS Sixty-one couples (M(age) for women = 27.95 years, SD = 5.87; M(age) for men = 30.48 years, SD = 6.70) in which the woman was diagnosed with PVD completed the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire, in reference to women's vulvovaginal pain. Women also rated their pain during intercourse, and couples completed measures of anxiety, depression, sexual function, and sexual satisfaction. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Dependent measures were (i) women's self-reported pain during intercourse on a numerical rating scale; (ii) State-Trait Anxiety Inventory trait subscale; (iii) Beck Depression Inventory-II; (iv) Derogatis Interview for Sexual Functioning; and (v) Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction Scale. RESULTS Women's greater pain acceptance was associated with their lower self-reported pain during intercourse, controlling for partner's pain acceptance. Greater pain acceptance among women was associated with their own lower anxiety and depression, greater sexual functioning, as well as their own and their partner's greater sexual satisfaction, controlling for the partner's pain acceptance. Additionally, greater pain acceptance among male partners was associated with their own lower depression. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that psychological interventions for PVD should target increasing couples' vulvovaginal pain acceptance in order to improve women's pain and the sexual and psychological functioning of both members of the couple.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelynn E Boerner
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Herbenick D, Schick V, Sanders SA, Reece M, Fortenberry JD. Pain Experienced During Vaginal and Anal Intercourse with Other‐Sex Partners: Findings from a Nationally Representative Probability Study in the United States. J Sex Med 2015; 12:1040-51. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Rosen NO, Muise A, Bergeron S, Delisle I, Baxter ML. Daily Associations Between Partner Responses and Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction in Couples Coping with Provoked Vestibulodynia. J Sex Med 2015; 12:1028-39. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Brauer M, Lakeman M, van Lunsen R, Laan E. Predictors of Task‐Persistent and Fear‐Avoiding Behaviors in Women with Sexual Pain Disorders. J Sex Med 2014; 11:3051-63. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To analyze literature on sexual pain disorders and to review and summarize the articles published throughout 2013 which contribute to the current knowledge on this subject. RECENT FINDINGS By age 40, 7.8% of women reported vulvar pain. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition, has combined vaginismus and dyspareunia into the same diagnostic label. The research reviewed in this article seems to differently point toward two conditions, focusing on different aspects both on the etiological and on the treatment area. Higher levels of partner-perceived self-efficacy and lower levels of partner catastrophizing were associated with less pain intensity in women with entry dyspareunia, independent of women's pain perception and self-efficacy. Alexithymia and fear were found to be important etiological factors in vaginismus. SUMMARY The present findings did not provide clear evidence in support of the superiority of any treatment and highlight the need for randomized, placebo-controlled trials that compare treatments in the future. A lot of work remained to be done to understand such a complex and multifaceted disturbance as genital sexual pain, but the articles examined showed that we are slowly adding more knowledge on the etiological cause and treatment models for such conditions.
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Corsini‐Munt S, Bergeron S, Rosen NO, Mayrand M, Delisle I. Feasibility and Preliminary Effectiveness of a Novel Cognitive–Behavioral Couple Therapy for Provoked Vestibulodynia: A Pilot Study. J Sex Med 2014; 11:2515-27. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Awada N, Bergeron S, Steben M, Hainault V, McDuff P. To Say or not to Say: Dyadic Ambivalence over Emotional Expression and Its Associations with Pain, Sexuality, and Distress in Couples Coping with Provoked Vestibulodynia. J Sex Med 2014; 11:1271-82. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Pazmany E, Bergeron S, Verhaeghe J, Van Oudenhove L, Enzlin P. Sexual communication, dyadic adjustment, and psychosexual well-being in premenopausal women with self-reported dyspareunia and their partners: a controlled study. J Sex Med 2014; 11:1786-97. [PMID: 24690206 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although research that takes into account partner and relationship factors in dyspareunia is slowly emerging, little is known about how these couples communicate about their sexuality. Additionally, partner psychosexual adjustment has not been examined in a controlled fashion. AIM This study aimed to compare dyadic sexual communication, dyadic adjustment, psychological adjustment, and sexual well-being of women with self-reported dyspareunia and their partners with those of pain-free control women and their partners. METHODS Premenopausal women (n = 38; mean [M] age = 24.92) with self-reported dyspareunia, their partners (n = 38; M age = 26.71), as well as pain-free control women (n = 44; M age = 25.86) and their partners (n = 44; M age = 27.95) completed an online survey measuring dyadic sexual communication, dyadic adjustment, anxiety, depression, sexual functioning, and sexual distress. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Assessments of women and men's (i) dyadic sexual communication; (ii) dyadic adjustment; (iii) anxiety; (iv) depression; (v) sexual functioning; and (vi) women's sexual distress were the main outcome measures. RESULTS Compared with pain-free controls, women with dyspareunia reported significantly poorer dyadic sexual communication, a difference not found between partners of women with dyspareunia and control partners. Compared with partners of control women, those of women with dyspareunia reported significantly more impaired sexual functioning. No differences in dyadic adjustment were found between women with dyspareunia and pain-free control women, or between their respective partners. Finally, compared with control women, those with dyspareunia reported significantly more impaired psychological and sexual well-being. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that dyspareunia impacts not only the psychosexual adjustment of affected women but also that of their partners. It seems relevant to include both members of the couple in future research and treatment for dyspareunia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Els Pazmany
- Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neuroscience, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Rosen NO, Rancourt KM, Corsini-Munt S, Bergeron S. Beyond a “Woman’s Problem”: The Role of Relationship Processes in Female Genital Pain. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-013-0006-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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