The Use of Acupuncture for the Treatment of Vulvar Vestibulitis

The Use of Acupuncture for the Treatment of Vulvar Vestibulitis

Randomized controlled trial designed to determine whether acupuncture is an effective treatment for vestibulitis.

Patients were randomized to five acupuncture sessions designed to treat pain in the vulvar area (study group), or five acupuncture sessions designed for tranquility (controls). Participants and evaluating gynecologists were blinded to randomization. Participants were examined clinically before treatment and one month after completion of assigned treatment; at both visits they completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire.

FSFI scores for pain during intercourse and total score were used to evaluate change. The examining gynecologist evaluated the degree of sensitivity to touch and the degree of local erythema. Response to treatment was evaluated for each group before and after treatment, and for study group compared to the control group.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Confirmed diagnosis of vestibulodynia

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• Patient who received other treatment for vestibulodynia in the month preceding.