Pelvic floor physical therapy in the treatment of a patient with persistent genital arousal disorder/genito-pelvic dysesthesia: a case report.

INTRODUCTION

Persistent genital arousal disorder/genito-pelvic dysesthesia (PGAD/GPD) is a condition of persistent or recurrent, unwanted or intrusive sensation of genital arousal that is usually associated with a distressing feeling and has a great impact on patients' daily life. Pelvic floor physical therapy is one of the effective conservative treatment options that deserves increased attention.

AIMS: This case report aims to provide a comprehensive pelvic floor physical therapy evaluation and treatment plans for a patient with PGAD/GPD that resulted in a complete resolution of symptoms.

METHODS

The patient is a 63-year-old female who suffered from persistent and uncontrolled sexual arousal over 3 months. Despite her efforts, the symptoms gradually worsened and never completely resolved, resulting in significant distress and despair. Her examination findings include myofascial restrictions on superficial pelvic floor structures, hypertonic pelvic floor muscles with trigger points, radiating pain along with genitofemoral nerve innervated areas, and lack of pelvic floor muscle strength and coordination. Physical therapy treatment plan included patient education, manual therapy, muscle strengthening exercises, and home exercise programs.

RESULTS

The patient's symptoms were completely resolved after a total of four pelvic floor physical therapy sessions. Home exercise program was able to maintain satisfactory treatment outcomes 3 months post treatment. No complaints were reported at the 6-month and 1-year follow-ups.

CONCLUSION

Genitofemoral nerve pathology may be a potential etiology for PGAD/GPD. Pelvic floor physical therapy can an effective medical treatment for PGAD/GPD originating from the pelvic and perineum region. A comprehensive pelvic floor examination and an evidence-based treatment plan will be able to improve symptoms and potentially resolve them completely.