Vulvodynia (Vulva pain)
Vulva pain or vulvodynia is unexplained or persistent pain in the vulva. It can occur to women of all ages and become a long-term health condition that can become very distressing to live with, but there are ways to relieve the pain.
Vulvodynia symptoms
The primary symptom is persistent pain in and around the vulva. The pain may be:
- Burning, throbbing, sore, or stinging
- Triggered by touch (during intercourse or using a tampon)
- Constant in the background
- Worsens while sitting down
- Partially, like the opening of the vagina
- More widespread, like the whole genital area or the anus
Some women might also experience vaginismus, interstitial cystitis, painful periods, or IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Having persistent vulva pain can reduce sex drive, cause low mood, and lead to depression.
The pain in the genital area is nothing to be embarrassed about, and you should come forward to consult a doctor.
Vulvodynia causes
The nerves that supply the vulva cause vulvodynia or vulva pain. The nerve damage can happen due to:
- Prior surgery
- Childbirth
- Trapped nerves
- History of severe vaginal thrush
Vulvodynia is not a contagious condition; it doesn’t have anything to do with personal hygiene and is not a sign of cancer.
Other causes of vulva pain
Vulva pain is not always mean vulvodynia; it can be a number of causes, including:
- Persistent vaginal thrush or vaginal infections
- Sensitivity to bubble baths, soaps, or certain medications or medicated creams
- Drop in oestrogen hormone, which leads to vulva and vagina dryness, particularly during menopause
- Recurrent herpes infection
- Certain skin conditions can cause intense soreness or irritation to the vulva
- In rare instances, Behçet’s disease or Sjögren’s syndrome
The doctor will rule out the mentioned conditions before treating you for vulvodynia. Some women might also have a combination of problems like vulvodynia and recurrent thrush.
Vulvodynia treatments
A combination of treatments often helps to relieve the symptoms of vulvodynia and lower its impact on your regular life. Some treatments include:
- Vulva gels and lubricants
- Medication prescribed by your doctor
- Physiotherapy
- Therapy and counseling
- Surgery
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022