Evidence points to an increasing prevalence of chronic vulvar pain conditions that directly impact the sexual, emotional and social well-being of women. One of the most common forms of female dyspareunia is vulvodynia, a chronic pain syndrome affecting up to 18% of the female population. The International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD) defines vulvodynia as unexplained chronic vulvar discomfort occurring in the absence of any evident pathology. Patients commonly describe the pain as burning, rawness or stabbing. The severity of symptoms can vary in duration and intensity.

A number of triggers are known to give rise to chronic vulvar pain, these can be of gynaecological origin (bacterial and yeast infections), dermatological (skin tissue changes) or the result of physical or chemical irritants. However, when medical causes have been eliminated, vulvar pain can become chronic and continue indefinitely. Acute symptoms which initially present like those of a yeast infection, can lead to progressive sensitization and disabling discomfort. Patients speak of tenderness around the vaginal opening, of rawness, burning, itching and stinging especially when touched or when light pressure is applied during medical exams, attempting intercourse, wearing tight clothing or simply sitting for a prolonged period of time.

Due to the lack of early diagnosis and of appropriate treatment for vulvodynia type symptoms women often experience significant psychological distress. Regrettably due to the absence of any visible pathology to explain the symptoms patients have often been led to believe that the pain is of psychological origin. Such views whether stated or implied are not consistent with the current understanding of vulvodynia. As in all chronic pain syndromes, there is a loss of quality of life and an obvious interaction of physiological, behavioural and emotional variables. Chronic vulvar pain can present a significant threat to women’s femininity and sense of self esteem. By its very nature, because it interferes with sexual function, it affects the individual’s ability to engage in intimate sexual behaviour and meaningful social ties. Some women develop a fear of entering into close relationships, while others already in relationships, may experience a progressive loss of sexual interest, evidenced by diminished desire and growing concern about the quality of sexual intimacy with their partners. In many cases severe vulvar pain can prevent couples from sexually consummating their marriages and relationship, as it can also interfere with their ability to conceive and establish a family.

The first step in the management of chronic vulvar pain is a correct medical diagnosis. Even though there is no simple cure for vulvodynia, through medical and behavioural therapies the codition can be affectively managed. With experienced help more than 85% of women can get better and resume normal sexual function. There is growing consensus among specialists that biofeedback assisted therapy, psycho-sexual counselling and appropriate medications provide the most effective first line therapy.

You are invited to browse through this websites resources which include: definitions, classifications, articles, and numerous case studies of patients written by women who have been treated for vulvodynia.