Vulvodynia - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which doctor should I go to if I have Vulvodynia?
A: You're likely to start by seeing your primary care provider. In some cases, you'll be referred to a doctor who specializes in conditions of the female reproductive tract (gynecologist).
Q: What is the main cause of vulvodynia?
A: The actual cause of vulvodynia is not known, but possible contributing factors include: Injury to or irritation of the nerves surrounding your vulvar region. Past vaginal infections. Allergies or sensitive skin.
Q: Does vulvodynia have discharge?
A: Vulvodynia may be cyclic in nature and accompanied by obvious physical changes, such as epidermal abnormalities, swelling, redness, and discharge.
Q: What can be mistaken for vulvodynia?
A: Vulvodynia can be confused with other vulvovaginal problems, such as chronic tension or spasm of the muscles of the vulvar area called vaginismus.
Q: How do you know if you might have vulvodynia?
A: Symptoms of vulvodynia
- Burning, stinging, throbbing or sore.
- Triggered by touch, such as during sex or when inserting a tampon.
- Constantly in the background.
- Worse when sitting down.
- Limited to part of the vulva, such as the opening of the vagina.
Q: How serious is vulvodynia?
A: Vulvodynia symptoms aren't life-threatening, but they can still have a huge impact on your life. Vulvar pain can take a toll on your normal activities. It can make it hard to have sex, exercise, socialize, or work. Severe symptoms or trouble having sex can also affect your relationship.
Q: Is it normal to have vulvar pain?
A: Many women experience pain and discomfort in the vulva at some point in their lives. When the pain is persistent for more than three months and has no apparent cause, it's called vulvodynia.
Q: How is vulvodynia diagnosed?
A: Vulvodynia tends to be diagnosed only when other causes of vulvar pain, such as infection or skin diseases, have been ruled out. To diagnose vulvodynia, a health care provider will take a detailed medical history, including pain characteristics and any accompanying bowel, bladder, or sexual problems.
Q: Can vulvodynia be caused by stress?
A: Vulvodynia can often be triggered by touch, such as during sexual intercourse, inserting a tampon, sports like riding a bicycle, wearing tight clothing, or sitting for long periods of time. It can also be triggered by psychological factors, including trauma or stress.
Q: What is the best treatment for vulvodynia?
A: Tricyclic antidepressants should be considered for the treatment of vulvodynia. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and gabapentin (Neurontin) should be considered for symptomatic relief of vulvodynia. Cognitive behavioral therapy should be used to decrease vulvar pain during intercourse.
