Vulvar vestibulitis is a disease of unknown aetiology involving inflammation of the skin and the mucous secreting glands found in the skin of the vulvar vestibule. It can occur in women of all ages, whether sexually active or not, can persist for years, and gives rise to symptoms such as severe pain on pressure (for example cycling, exercise or tight fitting clothes), intercourse or insertion of tampons, burning, stinging and irritation, redness and the urge to urinate frequently or suddenly. Possible implicating factors include human papilloma virus, chronic yeast infections, chronic bacterial infections, chronic changes of the acid-base balance in the vagina and chronic use of chemicals or irritants such as detergents, soaps, spermicides or lubricants. Various conventional treatments are used including steroid ointments, interferon injections, and surgery or laser treatment with varying effectiveness and risks. In a new Swedish study, 14 young (aged 19-26) patients received acupuncture 10 times, once or twice a week. Points Guanyuan REN-4, Qihai REN-6, Yaoyangguan DU-3, Shangliao BL-31, Yinlingquan SP-9 and Ququan LIV-8 were needled each time, with further points Shimen REN-5, Zhongji REN-3, Zusanli ST-36, Zhongliao BL-33 and Taixi KID-3 used occasionally. After arrival of deqi, needles were left in situ for 30-45 minutes with occasional stimulation. The treatment was assessed by both positive and negative quality of life (QOL) assessments. Results showed that the patients tolerated the treatment well, and that acupuncture had a significant impact on the subjects’ quality of life for several months after being treated, with12 women having lower negative QOL scores than before receiving acupuncture, and nine having higher positive QOL scores. The benefit continued at least until 3 months after treatment. The authors conclude “that acupuncture may be added to our arsenal of treatment methods for vulvar vestibulitis.” (Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2001;80:437-41).
Quelle: www.jcm.co.uk