Vulvodynia Symptoms & Treatments

Vulvodynia: Understanding the Condition

Vulvodynia, a term that may be unfamiliar to many, refers to a challenging and often misunderstood condition affecting the vulva, the external part of the female genital area. Vulvodynia affects at least 6% of women, and can be found at any age and in all ethnic groups. This condition is marked by persistent, unexplained pain that can last for months or even longer, bringing a significant impact on your quality of life. If you're visiting this page, you might be seeking answers or relief for your discomfort, and it's important to know that you're not alone in this journey.

What Does Vulvodynia Feel Like?

The experience of vulvodynia can vary greatly from person to person. Typically, it's described as a burning, stinging, or raw sensation in the vulvar area. Some women report feelings of aching, soreness, throbbing, or swelling. The pain might encompass the entire vulva or be confined to a specific part. It can be a constant presence or come in waves, and might occur spontaneously or be triggered by contact. Understanding these symptoms is the first step towards seeking appropriate care and finding relief.

What are some of the possible causes of Vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia is likely caused by many factors working together. Some of these factors include the following: 

• Damage or irritation of the nerves of the vulva
• Inflammation of the vulva
• Long-term reactions to certain infections
• Certain genetic disorders
• Sensitivity to certain foods
• Dysfunction of the muscles of the pelvic floor
• Conditions that affect nearby muscles or bones

In the realm of women's health, accurate diagnosis is crucial yet often challenging. A significant concern highlighted in a published study (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6142188/) is the frequent misdiagnosis of vulvodynia as vaginismus. This misidentification not only obscures the true nature of the patient's condition but also can lead to unnecessary or even harmful examinations and treatments. Recognizing this pattern is vital for healthcare providers, as it underscores the importance of thorough and precise diagnostic processes to ensure women receive the most appropriate and effective care for their specific conditions.

How is Vulvodynia evaluated?

If you have vulvar pain, your gynecologist or other health care professional will try to rule out the most common causes of vulvar pain first. You may be asked questions about your symptoms, sexual history, and medical and surgical history. You may be asked when symptoms occur, what treatments you have tried, and whether you have any allergies, chronic infections, or skin problems.

Your gynecologist also will examine the vulva and vagina carefully. A sample of discharge from the vagina may be taken. Your gynecologist may use a cotton swab to touch areas of the vulva. The goal is to find where the pain is and whether it is mild, moderate, or severe. You also may have a biopsy of the vulvar skin.

How is Vulvodynia treated?

Many kinds of treatment are available. No one method works all the time for everyone. It can take a few months before any relief is noticed. Sometimes more than one treatment may be needed. Keeping a pain diary can help you track your symptoms and how they respond to different therapies. In some cases, your gynecologist or other health care professional may refer you to a pain specialist.

 

What are some steps that I can take to help with my pain?

If you have vulvodynia, gentle care of the vulva is best. Avoid products and other items that may be irritating. The following may be helpful in relieving or reducing symptoms: 

• Wear 100% cotton underwear.
• Do not wear underwear while sleeping.
• Avoid douching.
• Avoid irritants, such as perfumes, dyes, shampoos, detergents, and deodorants.
• Clean the vulva with water only.
• Switch to 100% cotton pads if regular pads are irritating.
• Use lubricants during sex, but avoid lubricants with flavour or cooling/warming sensation 
• Rinse and pat the vulva dry after urinating.
• After bathing, apply a thin layer of a preservative-free oil or petroleum jelly to hold in moisture and protect the skin.
• Use Magnetic Vaginal Dilators on a regular basis to relax muscles and prevent Vaginismus.
• Use cool gel packs on the vulva.
• Kegel8 Ultra features pain relief programs which can help with the pain of vulvodynia.

Can physical therapy help with Vulvodynia?

Physical therapy is another option for treating Vulvodynia. This type of therapy can relax tissues in the pelvic floor and release tension in muscles and joints. Vaginal Dilator Therapy is a form of pelvic floor physical therapy.

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