KTP-Nd:YAG laser therapy for the treatment of vestibulodynia: A follow-up study

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results of KTP-Nd:YAG laser therapy for the treatment of vestibulodynia. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review and follow-up mail survey of women with vestibulodynia who underwent laser treatment. Demographics, number of laser treatments and symptom severity prior to laser treatment (100-mm visual analog scale) were obtained from the medical record. The survey included questions regarding current sexual pain, sexual quality of life and satisfaction with treatment. RESULTS: Of 41 treated women, 37 women were located and agreed to participate. The mean number of laser sessions was 2.81 (range, 1-8). The mean age was 32.9 years and mean follow-up, 2.8. Following laser treatment, most (24 of 37, 68%) subjects reported less pain with sexual intercourse. One subject reported more pain, while 29% (11 of 37) reported no change. Sixty percent (21 of 37) reported their sex lives to be more satisfying/ pleasurable following laser treatment. Thirteen women (13 of 37, 35%) underwent vestibulectomy following laser therapy, and 2 subjects were treated with a laser after failed vestibulectomy. CONCLUSION: Most women with vestibulodynia treated with a KTP-Nd:YAG laser achieve a reduction in sexual pain and improved sexual satisfaction without excisional therapy.