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Interstitial cystitis is associated with vulvodynia and sexual dysfunction--a case-control study
Barbara Gardella1, Daniele Porru, Rossella E Nappi
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
|April 12, 2011
Summary
Women with interstitial cystitis (IC) have a higher prevalence of vulvodynia and impaired sexual function. This comorbidity suggests potential sex hormone involvement, warranting further research into bladder and vulvar pain mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Gynecology
- Pain Medicine
Background:
- Dyspareunia and sexual dysfunction are common in women with urological disorders.
- Comorbidity between interstitial cystitis (IC) and vulvodynia is relevant for understanding pain mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate vulvodynia and sexual dysfunction in women with IC through a case-control study.
Main Methods:
- Compared 47 women with new IC diagnosis to 188 age-matched controls.
- Assessed vulvodynia, sexual function (FSFI), and genital health (VHIS) via interviews and examinations.
- Collected sociodemographic and gynecological data.
Main Results:
- 23.4% of IC cases reported spontaneous vulvodynia; 74.5% reported provoked vulvodynia.
- Significantly impaired sexual function (FSFI score) and reduced sexual activity in IC cases.
- Higher prevalence of menopause, oral contraceptive use, and endometriosis in women with IC.
Conclusions:
- Increased prevalence of vulvodynia in women with recent IC diagnosis.
- Both conditions significantly impact sexual function.
- Potential role of sex hormone-dependent mechanisms in vulvar and bladder pain comorbidity requires further investigation.
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