Exclusive manual perineal rehabilitation with lidocaine 2% gel in the treatment of provoked vestibulodynia: results from a single-arm interventional study

Int J Impot Res. 2023 Mar;35(2):157-163. doi: 10.1038/s41443-022-00537-9. Epub 2022 Feb 28.

Abstract

As of now, there is no adequate therapeutic strategy for provoked vestibulodynia (PVD). Pelvic Floor Muscle Therapy (PFMT) is a widely used technique in general pelvic floor rehabilitation. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of exclusive manual perineal rehabilitation with lidocaine 2% gel on PVD. During the first session, recruited patients (n = 68; mean age 31 ± 8.6; range: 18-52) received a questionnaire (Q1) on general well-being and health, pain of the genital area, sexual function, and symptoms during vaginal penetration. This questionnaire was based on a generalised questionnaire on the quality of life, the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item (SF-36), the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). A second identical questionnaire with an additional set of open-ended questions concerning the assessment of the treatment was collected after treatment (Q2). A total of 45 questionnaires were completed. Statistical results showed a significant improvement of all items before and after treatment (p < 0.001): perceived general well-being and health, perceived vulvar pain, perceived sexual function, and perceived vaginal penetration. In conclusion, exclusive manual perineal rehabilitation using lidocaine 2% gel seems to be a safe and effective treatment option for vulvodynia in women.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lidocaine / therapeutic use
  • Pain
  • Quality of Life
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vulvodynia* / diagnosis
  • Vulvodynia* / drug therapy
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Lidocaine