A Decade of Waiting: Experiences of Women Living With Vulvar Crohn’s Disease and Interactions With Healthcare Professionals Related to Their Sexual Well-Being: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background Vulvar Crohn’s disease is a rare cutaneous manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease and to date, studies have reported on under 300 cases worldwide. The condition has an increased risk of malignancy and diagnosis is often difficult. Treatment protocols are yet to be developed. This paper aimed to provide the first account of patients’ experience of living with vulvar Crohn’s. Methods A previous qualitative study exploring experiences of sexual well-being in inflammatory bowel disease and experiences of discussing sexual well-being with healthcare professionals found three participants who self-reported vulvar Crohn’s disease. Data from the whole cohort (n=43) were previously reported. Telephone semi structured interviews were used for data collection. van Manen‘s phenomenology of practice framework informed analysis. Results Due to significant differences in experiences this subgroup of three women with vulvar Crohn’s warranted separate attention. The common theme of the group was A decade of waiting, describing the major delays experienced in being diagnosed. The symptoms reported appeared to be very severe and sexual well-being was very negatively affected. Conclusion Women with vulvar Crohn’s trust in healthcare professionals was eroded as a result of a decade delay in diagnosis, whilst quality of life and relationships suffered.