Episode 103: Vulvodynia with Dr. Caroline Pukall - a podcast by Cassie Dionne, PT

Dr. Caroline Pukall is Professor in the Department of Psychology and the Director of the Sex and Relationship Therapy Service at the Psychology Clinic at Queen’s University. Caroline’s research lab—the Sexual Health Research Laboratory (SexLab.ca)—conducts inclusive research projects examining various aspects of sexuality, including vulvodynia, persistent genital arousal, sexual arousal, women’s health issues (e.g., postpartum pain and sexuality), and other topics.

 

On today's episode Dr. Pukall talks all about vulvodynia - what it is, what the symptoms are, and what we can do to treat this chronic pain condition. She gives us some really great insight, resources, and advice and also outlines some really cool research going on in her Sex Lab!

 

Episode Notes:

 

00:40 - Dr. Pukall's research and clinical work

03:13 - Online studies available participation (worldwide) at www.sexlab.ca

03:55 - What is Vulvodynia?

04:55 - Current estimates of how common vulvodynia is

07:15 - Primary vs. Secondary Vulvodynia

09:00 - Etiology/Risk factors and correlates of vulvodynia

16:16 - Acute vs chronic pain

17:30 - Oral contraceptives as risk factor

19:40 - Subtypes of vulvodynia and their symptoms

24:20 - When do symptoms occur, prognosis over time and comorbidities of vulvodynia

28:55 - Lifestyle factors and vulvodynia, stress and the pain cycle

31:50 - Brain/Pain/Fear connection and pain loop

33:58 - Diagnosing vulvodynia

37:50 - Recommended treatments for vulvodynia

41:30 - How important is having a diagnosis?

44:18 - Common barriers to treatments

50:00 - Knowledge dissemination

52:15 - How psychologists and sex therapists can help with vulvodynia

59:57 - Resources for women experiencing vulvodynia

1:02:00 - Where you can find Dr. Pukall

1:03:45 - Advice/homework for those experiencing vulvodynia

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