Vulvodynia or vulvar vestibulitis is a condition where there is chronic pain or discomfort in the woman's vulva region. This problem causes symptoms such as pain, irritation, redness or stinging in the genital region, which is why the problem is often confused with dermatoses or infections in the genital region.
Usually, this problem makes intimate contact painful, with symptoms of pain that can last for hours or days after intercourse. This is a disease that has no cure, and so the treatment aims to reduce pain and discomfort, in order to improve the quality of life.
Main Symptoms
Some of the main symptoms of Vulvodynia include:
- Pain on touch and irritation in the vulva region; Redness and stinging sensation in the genital region; Increased sensitivity; Stinging and burning sensation in the vulva region; Difficulty in inserting vaginal tampons or applicators; Pain during intercourse; Difficulty performing activities such as horseback riding or cycling.
This problem usually makes intimate contact painful, with symptoms of pain that can last for hours or days after intercourse. The pain felt may or may not be constant, and the symptoms may manifest from mild discomfort to severe pain that makes it difficult to perform basic daily activities, such as sitting for example.
Causes of Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia can affect women of all ages, from adolescence to menopause.
Although the causes that lead to the emergence of this problem are not yet known, however there are some factors that are associated with the emergence of this problem that include:
- Neuropathic pain; Genetic factors; Problems or dysfunctions in the pelvic floor; Hormonal changes; Changes in nerve pathways.
In addition, the onset of this disease is also associated with other factors including fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, post-traumatic stress, depression, migraine or recurrent candidiasis.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of this disease can be made by the gynecologist, who will perform observation and touch exams, to identify the points of tenderness or pain. This examination is often performed using a cotton swab to exert pressure on specific points in the genital region.
What is the treatment
The treatment for Vulvodynia depends on the type and intensity of the symptoms experienced, since there is no defined treatment for this disease, so there is a need to adapt the treatment to each situation.
Therefore, treatment may include applying topical medications such as lidocaine, taking oral remedies such as estrogen pills, antidepressants or antiepileptics that relax the muscles, performing psychotherapy or sexual counseling. In the most severe cases, surgery called vestibulectomy may even be recommended. In addition, daily care of the genital area is also very important, especially skin care and hygiene of the vulva, since the use of aggressive or irritating products can aggravate the symptoms.
The treatment can also be complemented by performing gynecological physiotherapy with devices such as TENS to reduce pain and exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor, such as Kegel exercises, Pompoarism or with vaginal cones.
