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

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.