About this topic
The outside of a womans sex organs is called the vulva. The vulva is made up of many parts. There are 2 inner lips and 2 outer lips. The lips are also called the labia minora and the labia majora. The clitoris is also a part of the vulva. The vestibule is the part where the skin on the outside meets the vagina. Pain in any of these parts is called vulvar pain. Vulvar pain may also be called vulvodynia. ‚
You may have pain, soreness, stinging, or burning. The pain may be constant or come and go. The pain may only happen when the part is touched. The pain may be mild or so bad that the pain keeps you from sleeping. You also may not be able to sit comfortably. ‚
What are the causes?
The exact cause of vulvodynia is unknown. This pain may be a sign of some other condition that needs treating. You may have vulvar pain from: ‚
- Infections
- Allergies
- Hormonal changes or imbalance
- Nerve injury around the area
- Sexual abuse
- Muscle spasms
- More nerve endings around the vestibule
- Weak pelvic floor muscles
- Increase in chemicals that cause swelling or inflammation
- Previous surgery to the vulva
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have vulvar pain if you are a younger to middle aged woman. Vulvar pain also happens more if you have sensitive skin and after you have a baby. You are more likely to have vulvar pain if you have had yeast infections or genital warts. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Aching
- Burning
- Itching
- Rawness
- Stinging
- Soreness
- Swelling
- Throbbing
- Pain during sex (dyspareunia)
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history. You may also have a pelvic exam. The doctor may use a special tool to look for infection and to see your vulva and vagina clearly. The doctor may order tests to learn more about the cause of this condition. ‚
- Swab test ¢ ˆ ’ The doctor will use a cotton swab to touch different parts of the vulva. Using a cotton swab to touch certain parts will help the doctor learn where the pain is coming from.
- Biopsy ¢ ˆ ’ A tissue sample may be taken from the surface of the vulva for exam.
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Care focuses on easing the signs and improving the quality of life of the patient. Most of the time, more than one type of treatment is needed to help the signs. Care may include: ‚
- Drugs, like pills or creams
- Physical therapy
- Counseling or talk therapy
- Nerve block
- A procedure to remove the area that is causing the pain. If the pain is widespread, surgery is not advised.
- Alternative therapies such as acupuncture
Are there other health problems to treat?
Vulvodynia may cause problems, like: ‚
- Antisocial behavior
- Anxiety
- Decreased quality of life
- Delayed sex activity or sexual dysfunction
- Low mood
- Sleeping problems
What lifestyle changes are needed?
Your doctor may suggest ways to help lower your pain, such as: ‚
- Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel over the painful part 3 to 4 times each day. Never put ice right on the skin. Do not leave the ice on more than 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
- Soak the vulva area in a lukewarm or cool bath for 5 to 10 minutes, 2 to 3 times in a day. Avoid soaking in hot water. A sitz bath may also be helpful.
- Use water based lubricants before having sex. Ask your doctor what lubricant is best for you.
- Wear loose-fitting underwear made of 100% cotton.
- Avoid activities that may put pressure in your vulva like biking or horseback riding.
- Avoid scented bathroom products such as bubble bath, soaps, and wipes.
- Avoid douching.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Lessen pain and swelling
- Lessen itching
- Relieve other signs
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no known way to prevent the condition. ‚
Helpful tips
Consider joining support groups to get to know other people who have coped with this condition. ‚
Where can I learn more?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ‚
http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq127.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20120702T0245399508 ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vulvodynia/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
Vulval Pain Society ‚
http://vulvalpainsociety.org/vps/index.php/vulval-conditions/vulvodynia ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚