Vaginal pain and vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is the pain in the vulva and or vaginal opening for which there is no apparent cause.  Vulvodynia, thus, is not related to any sexually transmitted diseases. Some of the frequent symptoms can be pain in different extremities. Some women experience sharp pain at one section, for some, pain everywhere. There are two different kinds of vulvodynia, these are:

• Generalized vulvodynia – this refers to pain in different areas of the vulva. The pain also occurs at different times. There may be times of relief, and times of sharp pain. Prolonged sitting as well as wearing tight pants may cause pain as well. 
• Vulvar Vestibulitis syndrome – refers to provoked vestibulodynia. This is the experienced pain of the patient particularly in the vestibule area (inner part entrance). This is frequently experienced during sexual intercourse. 

There is no concrete study of the causes of vaginal pain. However, some of the theories range from nerve injury/irritation, inflammation, yeast infections, hormonal changes to use of medications. Until now, studies are still being done to find out the root cause of this. Those who have this might experience burning sensation, itching, irritation and soreness. These symptoms can be felt during:

• Rigorous exercise
• Using tampons or pads
• Bicycling
• Sexual intercourse

Your doctor should be able to diagnose your condition through asking about your medical history, symptoms felt, past activities and examination of your vagina. He/she may also request blood tests to assess estrogen and progesterone levels. Cotton swabs are also used to perform such examination. 

Since there is no found root cause of vulvodynia, there is also no present cure for it. However, self-treatment as well as home remedies can relief pain. Over the counter pain relievers, vaginal creams, and other topical creams can be used to limit pain.

Where can you find more information?
Contact Faith Medical Group or drop by at our clinics!