Vulvodynia: What You Need to Know
Vulvodynia is a chronic condition that causes pain in the vulva, the external part of the female genitalia. The pain can be burning, stinging, throbbing, or sharp, and it can affect different areas of the vulva at different times. Vulvodynia can interfere with daily activities, such as sitting, exercising, or having sex.
Causes Of Vulvodynia
The exact cause of vulvodynia is unknown, but some possible factors include nerve injury or irritation, past infections, inflammation, hormonal changes, or genetic factors. Vulvodynia is not caused by an infection, a sexually transmitted disease, or cancer.
Diagnosis Of Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia can be diagnosed by a gynaecologist or another healthcare provider who specialises in vulvar health. The diagnosis is based on the symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination of the vulva. Sometimes, other tests may be done to rule out other conditions that can cause vulvar pain.
Treatments Of Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia can be treated with a combination of approaches, depending on the individual needs and preferences of each person. Some of the treatment options include:
- Medications, such as topical creams or ointments, oral antidepressants or anticonvulsants, or injections of local anaesthetics or steroids.
- Physical therapy, which can help relax the pelvic floor muscles and improve blood flow to the vulva.
- Biofeedback, which can help reduce pain by teaching how to control the body's response to stress and pain.
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which can help cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of vulvodynia and improve sexual function and quality of life.
- Surgery, which may be considered in some cases of localised vulvodynia that does not respond to other treatments. Surgery involves removing the painful tissue from the vulvar vestibule (the area around the opening of the vagina).
Conclusion
Vulvodynia is not a life-threatening condition, but it can have a significant impact on a person's well-being and relationships. Therefore, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable and compassionate about vulvodynia. There are also support groups and online resources that can provide information and emotional support for people with vulvodynia and their partners.
Sources:
Vulvodynia - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vulvodynia/symptoms-causes/syc-20353423
Vulvodynia: Causes, Symptoms, Management & Treatment - Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17878-vulvodynia
What is Vulvodynia?