Virtual reality simulation in reducing discomfort and pain during intrauterine device insertion: a randomized...

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Gynecology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Intrauterine device (IUD) insertion can be associated with patient discomfort and pain.
• Virtual reality (VR) has shown potential in managing acute pain and procedural anxiety.
• Assessing VR's efficacy in gynecological procedures like IUD insertion is crucial for improving patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate patient-reported overall experience with VR simulation during IUD insertion.
• To determine VR's impact on pain reduction, patient satisfaction, and procedure success.
• To compare VR simulation against standard care for IUD insertion outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A single-center randomized controlled trial was conducted with 200 participants undergoing levonorgestrel-releasing IUD insertion.
• Participants were randomized 1:1 to either a VR group (using VR goggles) or a standard-of-care group.
• Primary outcome was overall patient experience measured by Visual Analog Scale (VAS); pain was assessed using Numeric Pain Rating Scale.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in immediate patient experience (VAS) or pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale) was observed between the VR and standard-of-care groups.
• At 6 weeks post-insertion, VR patients reported no improved general experience.
• VR group patients were less likely to recommend the procedure compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality simulation does not conclusively alter the overall patient experience or reduce pain during IUD insertion.
• This study did not demonstrate improved patient-reported outcomes with VR during levonorgestrel-containing IUD insertion.
• Further research may be needed to explore VR's role in gynecological procedures, potentially with different protocols or patient populations.