Hormonal contraception and vulvodynia: an update

Details

Serval ID
serval:BIB_9514807059BF
Type
Article: article from journal or magazin.
Publication sub-type
Review (review): journal as complete as possible of one specific subject, written based on exhaustive analyses from published work.
Collection
Publications
Title
Hormonal contraception and vulvodynia: an update
Journal
GREM Gynecological and Reproductive Endocrinology & Metabolism
Author(s)
Aerts Leen, Pluchino Nicola
ISSN
2710-2297
Publication state
Published
Issued date
03/03/2021
Volume
2021
Pages
156-161
Language
english
Abstract
Vulvodynia is likely a multifactorial disorder, with multiple potential psychosocial and medical pathways
leading to the development and persistence of pain. Sex steroid hormones and, in particular, hormonal changes secondary
to intake of hormonal contraception, have been considered among the medical factors suggested to play a role in the
initiation and/or persistence of vulvodynia. Aim
To provide an update on the topic of steroid hormones and pain regulation, both in general and more specifically in
the domain of vulvodynia.
Methods:
Literature for this review was obtained from PubMed searches and from relevant text books.
Main outcome measures: A comprehensive review on the impact of hormonal contraception on pain in general and on
vulvodynia.
Results:
Hormonal contraception may change vulvovaginal morphology by increasing vascular resistance and causing
atrophy, reduced elasticity and hypolubrication. In addition, reduction of the levels of the neuroactive steroids in the brain
may alter sexual motivation and behavior. Finally, sex steroids are implicated in nociception at peripheral, spinal and
supra-spinal levels.
Conclusions:
Hormonal contraception and the associated decrease in neuroactive steroids may interfere with nociceptive
pain regulation. Future research into the impact of hormonal contraceptives on pain and sexual function is needed.
The findings will help women make informed choices about their contraception and will help optimize the care of women
with vulvodynia.
Create date
15/09/2023 13:25
Last modification date
27/09/2023 14:33
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