Effects of vulvodynia on quality of life - 08/08/11
Abstract |
Background |
The experiences of women with vulvodynia are poorly understood.
Objective |
We sought to determine the effects of vulvodynia on quality of life.
Methods |
We conducted a survey of 280 patients in a university-based vulvar disorders clinic. Skin-related quality of life was measured with a vulvar-specific version of Skindex-29.
Results |
The response rate was 95%; 101 patients (36%) had vulvodynia, and 179 patients (64%) had other vulvar conditions. Women with vulvodynia had significantly worse quality of life than patients with many other dermatologic conditions, and worse functioning than women with other vulvar conditions (mean functioning scores [±SD] of patients with psoriasis, other vulvar conditions, and vulvodynia were 23 ± 27, 34 ± 24, and 44 ± 22, respectively, P = .05). A diagnosis of vulvodynia was the strongest independent correlate of poor quality of life (eg, for poor functioning, odds ratio = 1.8, 95% confidence interval 1.0-3.1).
Limitations |
Limitations are single academic medical center and comorbid illnesses determined by self-report.
Conclusion |
Vulvodynia has broad and substantial effects on quality of life.
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Supported an Independent Scientist Award (K02 AR 02203) and a Midcareer Investigator Award (K24-AR052667) to Dr Chren from the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health. |
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Conflicts of interest: None declared. |
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Presented in part at the Annual Meeting of the American DermatoEpidemiology Network in Los Angeles, CA, on May 12, 2007. |
Vol 60 - N° 1
P. 70-76 - janvier 2009 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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