A scoping review: the psychosocial barriers that exist for people with vulvodynia

Vulvodynia, including generalized vulvodynia and vestibulodynia, affects at least 8% to 16% of people with a vulva and may have a negative impact on one's quality of life, psychological health, interpersonal relationships, and individual behaviors.

The aim of this scoping review is to synthesize and analyze the emerging literature of vulvodynia research while determining what psychosocial barriers exist for people with vulvodynia.

A rigorous literature search was completed in 6 databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, APA PsycInfo, and Academic Search Premier. Key terms and subject headings, including Medical Subject Headings, were used to systematically search these databases. Two reviewers were utilized to assess the reference list and reduce bias.

A total of 671 articles were discovered during the search, which was narrowed down to 73 that included at least 1 psychosocial barrier that patients experience in the United States and Canada.

The findings of the literature search revealed the various psychosocial barriers that patients commonly face: pain, anxiety, depression, catastrophization, fear, lack of self-efficacy, low desire and arousal, negative body image, stigma, distress, posttraumatic stress disorder, child maltreatment and abuse, mistrust, invalidation and isolation, low levels of self-compassion, negative partner support, low relationship satisfaction, lack of physical affection, emotional regulation, and avoidance and lack of approach goals. In addition to psychosocial barriers, structural determinants and environmental barriers-such as delayed diagnosis, low health literacy, cost, transportation, and racial disparities-adversely affected individuals with vulvodynia.

This review should serve as a guide for researchers, medical providers, and program developers to understand all the barriers that patients may face.

This review comprehensively highlights existing psychological barriers while promoting structural and environmental barriers that people with vulvodynia face. More research and greater emphasis on the underlying physical conditions that contribute to vulvodynia are needed to effectively educate providers and patients on vulvar pain conditions.

This scoping review highlights the numerous barriers faced by patients with vulvodynia and serves to improve education for patients and providers to achieve earlier diagnoses and better patient outcomes.