Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition occurring in the area around the opening of the vagina (vulva) that can affect women and girls of all ages. The condition can interfere with many aspects of a woman’s life, and if left untreated, the disorder can negatively impact her self-image and even lead to depression. Unfortunately, the cause of this condition remains unknown.

There are two main types of vulvodynia: generalized vulvodynia and vulvar vestibulitis syndrome. Both types share similar symptoms, which vary in severity from person to person but may include burning, itching, stinging, aching or throbbing sensations in the vulvar area.

Contributing factors for developing vulvodynia include:

• Injury to or irritation of the nerves surrounding the vulva
• Past vaginal infections
• Allergies or a localized hypersensitivity of the skin
• Hormonal changes
• Pelvic floor muscle weakness or spasm
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

How We Can Help

There is not a single solution for treating vulvodynia, but there are techniques available to help manage the symptoms.

At the Kaplan Center, our physicians have years of experience helping women manage the painful symptoms of vulvodynia and we completely reject the notion that “you just have to live with it.”

At your first visit, your Kaplan physician will take time exploring the onset of your condition, the specific nature of your symptoms and the overall status of your health. You’ll also be asked about the medications and therapies you’ve tried in the past, and what has and hasn’t worked for you. To gather additional information about your condition, specialized diagnostic laboratory testing may be necessary.

After reviewing all of the factors contributing to your condition, your physician will spend time talking with you about your diagnosis and working with you to create a customized and multi-dimensional treatment plan that addresses not only your immediate pain but also any possible underlying or co-existing conditions that may be causing or aggravating your symptoms.

We offer a multitude of effective treatment options, including:

• Physical Therapy
• Acupuncture
• Natural & Synthetic Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
• Prescription Medication
• Nutritional Counseling
• Vitamin & Magnesium Intravenous Supplementation
• Relaxation Techniques

Women who suffer from vulvodynia often feel isolated and embarrassed. Because of this, they may choose to not discuss their symptoms with their doctors, leaving the vulvodynia undiagnosed and untreated. If you are suffering from the symptoms of vulvodynia, but have not yet been diagnosed or treated, we encourage you to talk with your provider and find relief today.

Additional Resources:

Website: National Vulvodynia Association (NVA)