Lidocaine for Dyspareunia in Breast Cancer Survivors

One of the most common complaints from breast cancer survivors, if the subject is broached, relates to sexual dysfunction, of which there can be many manifestations, including lack of desire, body image, depression, and anxiety, as well as physical issues such as dyspareunia.

To explore whether aqueous lidocaine could prevent penetration pain associated with dyspareunia, investigators conducted a randomized, controlled, blinded study involving 46 breast cancer survivors with documented severe vulvovaginal atrophy, dyspareunia, increased sexual distress scores, or abnormal sexual dysfunction. Patients applied either saline or 4% aqueous lidocaine compresses 3 minutes prior to twice-weekly vaginal intercourse or tampon insertion. Thereafter, p…