(050) Vulvodynia Viewed From a Disease Prevention Framework: Insights From Patient Perspectives

Abstract Introduction Persons with vulvodynia (a chronic vulvar pain condition) suffer many barriers to diagnosis and treatment, several of which may be exacerbated by the sociocultural geographical context in they live. Objectives We drew on experiences patients who were living small urban rural communities learn what perceived as major treatment well probe for possible solutions. Methods For this qualitative case study, we conducted 3 focus groups a total 10 participants, drawn from seen at our academic tertiary referral center, goal understanding their lived experience vulvodynia. The patient dialogue was coded into themes temporally grouped illustrate struggles victories treatment. Results Participants confirmed that healthcare provider knowledge attitudes system challenges (specialist allied availability) are timely diagnosis. Of novel interest other factors exacerbate distress delay such patients’ inadequate sexual functioning messages regarding “normal” activity. Our work suggests disease prevention framework includes comprehensive education before or onset activity benefit reducing burden when added strategies increase improve access effective treatments. Conclusions While often forefront diagnosis, study minimize expedite resources must also directed promoting health education. Disclosure No.