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Dyspareunia in Women: Updates in Mechanisms and Current/Novel Therapies

  • Female Sexual Dysfunction and Disorders (T Lorenz and R Nappi, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Dyspareunia could influence negatively the sexuality of pre- and postmenopausal women. Genital pain can be cause for disturbing sexual desire. We conducted a review to describe interventions to address dyspareunia.

Recent Findings

We reviewed 64 articles, based on studies concerning definitions of dyspareunia, genital sexual pain, different causes in pre/postmenopausal women, physical examination, management by age groups, and current/novel therapies. Evidence was drawn from systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials, clinical controlled studies, and case-control-studies, and from non-systematic reviews.

Summary

All included studies showed a significant reduction of dyspareunia after specific treatment. Women who received hormonal or non-hormonal medication, or physical therapy, had a better quality of sexual life. Hormonal and physical therapies show faster efficacy than non-hormonal therapies. In addition, pharmacological, psychological, and sexological integrated therapies seem to be more effective than single treatments.

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Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the Scientific Bureau of the University of Catania for language support.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Group of Sexual Research, University of Catania, Via S.Sofia 78, 95124, Catania, Italy

    Salvatore Caruso & Caterina Monaco

  2. Gynecological Clinic of the Policlinico Universitario, Via S.Sofia 78, 95124, Catania, Italy

    Salvatore Caruso

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  1. Salvatore Caruso
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Correspondence to Salvatore Caruso.

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Caruso, S., Monaco, C. Dyspareunia in Women: Updates in Mechanisms and Current/Novel Therapies. Curr Sex Health Rep 11, 9–20 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-019-00188-w

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