Vulvodynia (vul-voe-DIN-e-uh) is chronic pain in the area around the opening of your vagina (vulva) for which there is no identifiable cause. The pain, burning or irritation associated with vulvodynia may make you so uncomfortable that sitting for long periods or having sex becomes unthinkable. The condition can go on for months or years.

If you have vulvodynia, don't let the absence of visible signs or embarrassment about discussing the symptoms keep you from seeking help. Treatment options are available to lessen your pain and discomfort.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

The main vulvodynia symptom is pain in your genital area, which can be characterized by:

• Burning
• Soreness
• Stinging
• Rawness
• Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Throbbing
• Itching

The pain you experience may be constant or occasional and can last for months or even years, but it can vanish as suddenly as it started. You may feel the pain in your entire vulvar area (generalized), or it may be localized to a certain area, such as the opening of your vagina (vestibule).

A similar condition, vestibulodynia, may cause pain only when pressure is applied to the area surrounding the entrance to your vagina.

Vulvar tissue may look minimally inflamed or swollen. More often, your vulva appears normal.

When to see a doctor

Although women often don't tell their doctors about the problem, vulvodynia is a fairly common condition.

If you experience pain in your genital area, discuss it with your doctor, or ask for a referral to a gynecologist. It's important to have your doctor rule out more easily treatable causes of vulvar pain, such as yeast or bacterial infections, other skin conditions, and medical problems such as diabetes. It's also important not to repeatedly use over-the-counter treatments for yeast infections without seeing your doctor. Once your doctor has evaluated your particular symptoms, he or she can recommend treatments or ways to help you manage your pain.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Doctors don't know what causes vulvodynia, but contributing factors may include:

• Injury to or irritation of the nerves surrounding your vulvar region
• Past vaginal infections
• Allergies or sensitive skin
• Hormonal changes

Many women with vulvodynia have a history of treatment for recurrent vaginitis or vaginal yeast infections. Some women with the condition have a history of sexual abuse. But most women with vulvodynia have no known causes. Vulvodynia isn't sexually transmitted or a sign of cancer.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Before diagnosing vulvodynia, your doctor will ask you several questions to get a better idea of your medical history and to understand the location, nature and extent of your symptoms.

As part of his or her evaluation, your doctor may also perform these tests:

• Pelvic exam. During this exam, your doctor visually examines your external genitals and vagina for signs of infection or some other cause of your symptoms. Even if there's no visual evidence of infection, your doctor may take a sample of cells from your vagina to test for a vaginal infection, such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.
• Cotton swab test. During this test, your doctor uses a moistened cotton swab to gently check for specific, localized areas of pain in your vulvar region.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

Because it can be painful and frustrating and can keep you from wanting to have sex, vulvodynia can cause emotional problems. For example, fear of having sex can cause spasms in the muscles around your vagina (vaginismus). Other complications may include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Sexual dysfunction
• Altered body image
• Relationship problems
• Decreased quality of life

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

The following tips may help you manage the symptoms of vulvodynia:

• Try cold compresses. Cold compresses placed directly on your external genital area may help lessen pain and itching.
• Soak in a sitz bath. Two to three times a day, sit in comfortable, lukewarm (not hot) or cool water for five to 10 minutes.
• Avoid tightfitting pantyhose and nylon underwear. Tight clothing restricts airflow to your genital area, often leading to increased temperature and moisture that can cause irritation. Wear white, cotton underwear to increase ventilation and dryness. Sleep without underwear at night, if you feel comfortable doing so.
• Avoid hot tubs and soaking in hot baths. Spending time in hot water may lead to discomfort and itching.
• Avoid activities that put pressure on your vulva, such as biking or horseback riding.
• Wash gently. Scrubbing the affected area harshly or washing too often can increase irritation. Instead, use plain water to gently clean your vulva with your hand and pat the area dry. After bathing, apply a preservative-free emollient, such as plain petroleum jelly, to create a protective barrier.
• Use lubricants. If you're sexually active, apply a lubricant before engaging in sexual intercourse.
• Try an antihistamine at bedtime. This may help reduce itching and help you rest better.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com

You may find it helpful to talk to other women who have vulvodynia. Talking to others with the condition can provide information and help relieve feelings of isolation. If the thought of a support group makes you uncomfortable, your doctor may be able to recommend a counselor in your area — one with experience in helping women cope with vulvodynia.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com