Author: Gillian Boudreau

The V Book

The V Book by Elizabeth Stewart Bantam, 2002  

Influence of Uncertainty on Responses to the Sexual Health Threat, Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

How do state and trait differences in uncertainty affect responses to a sexual health threat? In a series of studies we investigated how these differences in uncertainty relate to affective (e.g. anxiety) and behavioural (e.g. information-seeking) responses. We showed that a greater intolerance of uncertainty (IU) leads to more information-seeking about a health threat and individuals with higher IU sought the most information and worried most when they perceived the uncertainty surrounding a health threat to be higher rather than lower.

Partner Responses in Women with Provoked Vestibulodynia (PVD) and their Partners

We recently completed a study in the Couples and Sexual Health Laboratory (Dalhousie University/IWK Health Centre) examining relationship variables in couples with PVD. Click below to find a summary of the purpose of the study, how we conducted the study, the results from the questionnaires, and some conclusions about what we believe the findings mean.

Pain Related to Pregnancy and Childbirth

The goal of this project was to examine the prevalence, predictors, and consequences of genital and pelvic pain related to pregnancy and childbirth. We investigated the role of biological and psychological factors in the development and maintenance of genital and pelvic pain. Findings will be posted soon.

Couple Therapy Treatment for Provoked Vestibulodynia (PVD)

We conducted a pilot test of a 12-week couple therapy for women suffering from PVD, an acute vulvo-vaginal pain condition. The purpose of this project was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of this treatment for couples, in preparation for a large-scale randomized controlled trial.

Laundry Care

Use dermatologically-approved detergent (e.g., Purex®, Clear®) on underwear or any other type of clothing/material that comes into contact with the vulva (e.g., pajama bottoms, exercise clothing, towels); Use 1/3 to 1/2 the suggested amount per load. Other clothing may be washed with the laundry soap of your choice. Avoid using fabric softener and/or bleach on […]

Clothing Choices

Wear white, 100% cotton underwear to allow air in and moisture out. Go without underwear when possible (e.g., when sleeping). Avoid thong (g-string) underwear. Avoid wearing full-length pantyhose; try thigh-high or knee-high stockings 
instead. Avoid tight fitting pants or jeans that may put pressure on the vulva. Avoid spandex®, lycra® and other tight-fitting clothing during […]

Hygiene Hints

Use soft, white, non-recycled, unscented toilet paper and 100% cotton pads or tampons. Avoid using scented products such as bubble bath, feminine hygiene products (pads or tampons), creams, or soaps that come into contact with the vulvar region. Avoid using feminine deodorant sprays, Vaseline®, and colored soaps in the vulvar area, and avoid douching unless […]

Physical Activities

Avoid exercises that put direct pressure on the vulva such as bicycle riding and horseback riding. Use padded shorts/bicycle seats if you do engage in such activities. Limit intense exercises that create a lot of friction in the vulvar area. Use a frozen gel pack wrapped in a towel to relieve symptoms after exercise. Enroll […]