Can botox injections treat dyspareunia?
Botox (botulinum toxin) injections are an emerging treatment for dyspareunia caused by pelvic floor muscle spasm, but are generally considered after other therapies have failed.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Botox relaxes overactive pelvic muscles, which may help women with severe vaginismus or refractory pelvic floor spasm. Some studies report improvement in pain and sexual function, though results vary and further research is needed. Treatment should only be performed by experienced specialists. RCOG: Dyspareunia.
Clinical Context
Botox is considered for women who have not improved with physiotherapy or standard therapies. It may require repeated treatments and specialist follow-up.
Evidence-Based Approaches
Current guidelines support botox as a second- or third-line therapy for select patients with pelvic floor dysfunction-related dyspareunia. RCOG: Dyspareunia.