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Internet-based Treatment for Vulvodynia (EMBLA) - A Randomized Controlled Study.
Andrea Hess Engström1, Nina Bohm-Starke2, Merit Kullinger1
1Uppsala University, Center for Clinical Research, Västmanland County Hospital, Västerås, Sweden; Uppsala University, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala, Sweden.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
|January 1, 2022
Summary
Internet-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) effectively reduced pain during intercourse and improved pain acceptance for women with vulvodynia. This digital approach shows promise for complementing clinical treatments.
Area of Science:
- Psychological interventions
- Digital health
- Women's health
Background:
- Internet-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) may enhance accessibility and reduce stigma in healthcare seeking.
- Limited research exists on internet-based ACT for women experiencing vulvodynia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of an internet-based ACT intervention for reducing pain during intercourse in women with provoked vulvodynia.
- To compare the internet-based ACT intervention against a waiting list control group receiving usual care.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter randomized controlled trial involving 99 women with provoked vulvodynia.
- Participants were randomized to a 6-week guided internet-based ACT or usual care.
- Data collection occurred at baseline, 6 weeks, and 10 months post-treatment.
Main Results:
- The internet-based ACT intervention significantly reduced pain during intercourse at post-treatment and follow-up.
- Participants in the intervention group demonstrated higher pain acceptance and increased activity engagement.
- No significant differences were observed in tampon test measures or the impact of pain on sexual function between groups.
Conclusions:
- Internet-based ACT shows potential as a complementary treatment for vulvodynia, improving pain during intercourse and pain acceptance.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm these findings.
- The intervention may be integrated into clinical practice to enhance vulvodynia management.
