Cognitive-Affective Correlates and Predictors of Superficial Dyspareunia

Abstract

This study investigated the role of cognitive-affective variables related to sexuality, chronic pain, individual and relational well-being in superficial dyspareunia. Although symptomatic women (n = 80) differed from complaint-free controls (n = 62) on all variables, sexuality related measures had the most important contribution into the prediction of group membership. Dyspareunia subgroups based on the presence/absence of a concomitant diagnosis of provoked vestibulodynia were only distinguishable on pain intensity but not on variables related to sexuality and psychological well-being. The present findings underscore the relevance of psychosexual factors in women with superficial dyspareunia.