Junior doctors' understanding of vulval pain/Vulvodynia: A qualitative survey

Aim: The objective of this survey is to explore junior doctors' understanding of vulvodynia using a questionnaire. Method: Fifty-six copies of the questionnaire were handed out at three hospitals: Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Colchester University Hospital, and Royal Free Hospital in London. The questionnaire was anonymous, containing 11 questions asking about different aspects of diagnosis and management of vulvodynia. The doctors were asked to write their post or level of Obstetrics and Gynaecology speciality training e.g. ST1, ST2, ST3, etc. Results: The results highlight the limited amount of awareness and understanding of vulval pain among junior doctors. Conclusion: There is little understanding about vulvodynia among junior gynaecologists. Most of them did not have any form of basic training about the condition even after reaching the final stages of the speciality training. In view of the estimated prevalence, there is a need for including some form of local and/or regional teaching about the causes and management of vulvar pain, particularly for those who are about to finish their speciality training. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.