Acupuncture for the treatment of vulvar vestibulitis: A pilot study

Background. The study was conducted to obtain a preliminary indication of t he effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of vulvar vestibulitis but also to obtain information how well the women tolerate the treatment. Methods. Fourteen young women with vulvar vestibulitis according to Friedri ch's criteria were enrolled in the study and 13 fulfilled the acupuncture t reatment a total of 10 times. For evaluation quality of life (QOL) assessme nts were made before starting the treatment and then at one week and at thr ee months after it was completed. Results. The treatment was well tolerated and the QOL measurements were all significantly higher after both the last acupuncture and three months late r, compared to before the treatment was started. Conclusion. The results seem promising, but a larger controlled randomized study should be carried out before the treatment can be recommended for use in clinical practice.