Vulvodynia
What is Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort around the opening of your vagina (vulva) for which there's no identifiable cause and which lasts at least three months.
What are the different types of Vulvodynia?
There are two main subtypes of vulvodynia:
Generalized vulvodynia is pain in different areas of the vulva at different times. Vulvar pain may be constant or occur every once in a while.- Localized vulvodynia is pain in one area of the vulva. Often a burning sensation.
Provoked Vestibulodynia (PVD) (left) vs. Generalized Vulvodynia (GVD) (right)
What are the possible causes of vulvodynia?
The possible causes of vulvodynia may include:
- Nerve injury or irritation
- Abnormal response in vulvar cells to an infection or trauma
- Genetic factors that make the vulva respond poorly to chronic inflammation
- Hypersensitivity to yeast infections
- Muscle spasms
- Allergies or irritation to chemicals or other substances
- Hormonal changes
- History of sexual abuse
- Frequent antibiotic use
What are the symptoms of vulvodynia?
These are the most common symptoms of vulvodynia:
- Burning, stinging, or rawness
- Aching, soreness, or throbbing
- Itching
You may feel symptoms of vulvodynia:
- All the time or just once in a while
- During activities such as exercise, intercourse, or walking -- or even while at rest
- While bicycling, inserting tampons, or even sitting
- In one specific area or throughout your entire vulva
How are Vulvodynia treated?
There is no one particular treatment for vulvodynia that works for all women. You may need to try a combination of treatments for the best results. Your doctor will decide your treatment plan.
