Vulvodynia or vulvar vestibulitis is a condition characterized by chronic pain or discomfort in the woman’s vulvar region. This problem causes symptoms such as pain, irritation, redness or tingling in the genital area, which is why the problem is often mistaken for dermatosis or infections in the genital area.
This problem usually makes intimate contact painful, with pain symptoms that can last hours or days after sex. It is an incurable disease and therefore treatment aims to reduce pain and discomfort, in order to improve the quality of life.
Some of the main symptoms of vulvodynia include
This problem usually makes intimate contact painful, with pain symptoms that can last hours or days after sex. Pain may or may not be constant, and symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that makes it difficult to perform basic daily activities, such as sitting.
Vulvodynia can affect women of all ages, from adolescence to menopause.
Although the causes of this problem are not yet known, some factors are associated with the occurrence of this problem, including:
In addition, the onset of this disease is also associated with other factors such as fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, migraine or recurrent thrush.
Diagnosis of this disease can be made by the gynecologist, who will perform observational and tactile scans, in order to identify points of sensitivity or pain. This test is often done with a cotton swab to put pressure on specific points in the genital area.
The treatment of vulvodynia depends on the type and intensity of the symptoms experienced, since there is no definitive treatment for this disease, so it is necessary to adapt the treatment to each situation.
Therefore, treatment may include the application of topical medications such as lidocaine, taking oral remedies such as estrogen pills, antidepressants or antiepileptics that relax muscles, 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 vulva hygiene, as the use of aggressive or irritating products can aggravate symptoms.
Treatment can also be supplemented 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 vaginal cones.