1. Objectifs

Intentions :
«Therefore, the primary goal of the present RCT [randomized clinical trial] is to evaluate the efficacy of CBCT [cognitive-behavioral couple therapy] in comparison to one of the most commonly prescribed first-line medical interventions, topical lidocaine, in the reduction of pain during intercourse at post-treatment. Secondary research goals include the examination of differences between the two treatments at post-treatment and 6 month follow-up on: (a) the multidimensional aspects of women’s pain; (b) women and partners’ sexuality (sexual function and satisfaction, frequency of intercourse); (c) psychological adjustment (anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, self-efficacy, attributions and quality of life); (d) relationship factors (partner responses and dyadic adjustment); and (e) self-reported improvement and treatment satisfaction.» (p. 3)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
«Participants are being recruited via four centers, all specialized in the assessment and treatment of vulvo-vaginal pain: 1) Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, pavillon St-Luc, Clinique Vuva, directed by MHM, 2) Clinique A rue McGill, a sexual health clinic directed by MS, 3) the IWK Health Centre in Halifax where ID holds a general gynecology practice, and 4) the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre in Halifax where ID directs a specialized gynecology-dermatology vulvar clinic.» (p. 5)

Type de traitement des données :
Analyse statistique

3. Résumé

«This is the first randomized trial evaluating the efficacy of a treatment option for PVD [provoked vestibulodynia] in which the partner is included. The study of interpersonal factors in the experience of PVD has been neglected when in fact it is the most ‘interpersonal’ of pain conditions. Limitations of previously published PVD treatment research include poor participant selection, limited follow-up and a dearth of RCTs [...]. Few randomized studies have evaluated behavioral and cognitive-behavioral interventions [...], particularly as compared to standard forms of care. The use of a RCT design will provide a rigorous test of efficacy and high level of evidence. The two interventions being evaluated, CBCT and topical lidocaine, were developed using empirical findings and previously established treatment procedures. Both treatment protocols are standardized to facilitate uniformity in delivery to all participants, and therefore improve treatment reliability. […] This clinical trial addresses the urgent need for empirically validated treatments for PVD, the most frequent type of vulvodynia. The results will provide PVD couples with scientifically based treatment options, which may allow them to reduce their pain and improve their sexual functioning, psychological well-being and relationship. Moreover, findings from this study may be applicable to populations coping with sexual dysfunction related to health concerns.» (p. 9)