Outcome of surgical treatment for superficial dyspareunia from vulvar vestibulitis

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the results of surgical treatment for superficial dyspareunia, as manifested by patient satisfaction, as well as epidemiologic characteristics of women with this medical problem.

Study design: A questionnaire was sent to 69 women six months after the operation. It included questions about treatment before surgery and the impact of pain on the sexual relationship before and after the operation. Demographic, social and general health data were recorded before the operation. All patients returning the questionnaire were examined.

Results: Fifty-four (78%) patients replied. Half of those abstained from sexual relations before surgical treatment. Sixty-seven percent of patients required more than six visits to various physicians, before vestibulitis was diagnosed. Prior to surgery, 80% of patients received conservative treatment, whereas after surgery only 34% required it. A moderate to excellent improvement was reported after surgery by 45 (83%) patients. Repeat surgery (n = 7) resulted in further improvement in four patients. There were no major operative complications. Forty-five patients (83%) were satisfied with the results and would recommend the surgery to other women with this clinical problem.

Conclusion: Surgical treatment for superficial dyspareunia from vestibulitis is quite safe and results in a high rate of patient satisfaction.