The role of interoceptive sensibility on central sensitization to pain in vulvodynia.

Abstract

Background: Interoception may be linked to central sensitization in chronic pain.

Aim: We aimed to provide evidence about the role of interoceptive sensibility on central sensitization in vulvodynia.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a sample of females who received a diagnosis of vulvodynia filled out validated questionnaires relative to the individual level of interoceptive sensibility and the symptoms of central sensitization.

Outcomes: Interoceptive sensibility and symptoms of central sensitization were measured with the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness and the Central Sensitization Inventory, respectively.

Results: A lower level of trust and a higher level of emotional awareness predicted a higher number of central sensitization symptoms in our sample.

Clinical implications: Our evidence may increase the researchers' and physicians' attention toward the involvement of the central nervous system in pain phenomenology in vulvodynia.

Strengths and limitations: No ad-hoc control sample was collected. No behavioral assessments about interoception were performed.

Conclusion: As registered in other chronic pain conditions, interoceptive sensibility may play a crucial role in the expressions of symptoms of central sensitization in vulvodynia.