Vulvodynia is a common condition that affects the vulva. The experience for many women is confusing! It isn’t caused by infection or any physical thing that can be seen which makes it hard to diagnose. However, the pain can be unbearable and negatively impacts the quality of life.
It is a common issue that isn’t often spoken about. Vulvodynia affects up to 16% of women at one point or the other in their life. Knowledge is important. This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available to women so they can seek the required help and get relief.
Understanding Vulvodynia
It is the pain in the vulva area that can last up to 3 months or longer, and no clear cause is known. Generally, it is qualified into two:
- Generalized Vulvodynia: Here, the pain occurs in different parts of the vulva. It may be constant or occur at different intervals.
- Localised Vulvodynia: The pain here is only to a specific area. It could be triggered by pressure or by touch, like during sexual intercourse or when inserting a tampon.
Causes of Vulvodynia
It is not a consequence of bad hygiene or sexually transmitted infections. However, these myths still exist, and the lack of awareness does not do good to the women in pain. What causes Vulvodynia is not always clear, but it can be a combination of the following:
- Neurological Factors: Nerve damage or hypersensitivity in the vulvar region would lead to severe pain. This could be after an injury, surgery or even without any reason at all.
- Hormonal Changes: As women grow older and experience hormonal changes, it can affect their health. Hormonal changes like those from oral contraceptives or menopause can affect the tissue around the vulva and cause pain.
- Inflammation: When a person has to deal with a series of infections or inflammation, the vulva area can become sensitive long after the initial issue has been sorted.
- Psychological Contributors: Experiencing anxiety, depression, or a history of trauma can increase the pain and make it harder to manage.
It is important to remember that the pan is real and doesn’t exist just in your head. In addressing it, several underlying factors need to be addressed.
Symptoms of Vulvodynia
The human body is different, so the symptoms vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:
- Constant vulvar pain, which comes as burning, stinging, rawness, or itching.
- Pain during specific activities, such as sitting, wearing tight clothing, or engaging in sexual intercourse.
- Sensitivity to touch, even from something as light as underwear.
It can range from mild discomfort to unbearable pain, which affects daily activities. If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s important to consult a gynaecologist in Mumbai like Dr Neelima Mantri.
Vulvodynia Treatment
There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. Each treatment is peculiar to each individual.
- Medical Treatments: You could be given a cream to numb the area, which can bring temporary relief. Some drugs may also be prescribed.
- Physical Therapy: Pelvic floor therapy involves exercises that can help relax tight muscles, and it may help reduce pain.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoiding things that irritate the body, like scented soaps, tight clothing, or rough fabrics, can prevent you from having flare-ups. Use cotton underwear and adopt a gentle cleansing routine.
- Surgical Interventions: In rare, severe cases, a procedure called Vestibulectomy (removal of painful tissue around the vulva) may be recommended.
Conclusion
While vulvodynia may be challenging, it can be managed with the right care and support. Let’s work together to break the silence, debunk the myths around vulvodynia, and ensure that no woman feels alone in her pain. If you or a loved one is experiencing this pain, consult the best lady gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri, today.
