A Prospective 2-Year Examination of Cognitive and Behavioral Correlates of Provoked Vestibulodynia Outcomes

Discussion: Changes in both cognitive and behavioral variables were significantly associated with improved pain and sexual satisfaction outcomes. However, it was the positive changes in SE that better predicted changes in avoidance behavior, pain, and sexual satisfaction. Cognitive-behavior therapy is often focused on changing negative pain-related cognitions to reduce avoidance and pain, but the present results demonstrate the potential importance of bolstering positive self-beliefs as well. Indeed, before engaging in exposure therapies, SE beliefs should be assessed and potentially targeted to improve adherence to exposure strategies.
Source: The Clinical Journal of Pain - Category: Anesthesiology Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research