How common is vulval pain in vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia describes ongoing or recurring pain in the vulval area without one clear cause identified at the time of assessment. Pain may feel burning, stinging, raw, throbbing or sore. It can be present without touch, or brought on by contact such as sitting, wiping, inserting a tampon, having sex or wearing close-fitting clothing. Some people have pain around the vaginal opening, while others feel it in a wider area. Symptoms can fluctuate, and visible skin changes may be absent.

Pain in the vulva has several possible explanations, including irritation, infection, skin conditions and pelvic-floor muscle tension. A clinician may need to examine the area and ask about timing, triggers, medicines and previous infections before deciding whether vulvodynia fits.

Arrange an appointment if pain keeps returning, interferes with sleep or intimacy, or makes everyday activities difficult. Until then, wash gently with lukewarm water, avoid fragranced products and choose loose cotton underwear. Do not repeatedly self-treat for thrush without advice, because some products can irritate sensitive skin. A simple record of pain location, sensation, triggers and treatments can help the clinician plan an assessment.

Seek prompt medical care for new severe pain, fever, rapidly increasing swelling, pus, open sores, unexpected bleeding or difficulty passing urine. These features can point to a problem needing timely examination and are not explained by pain frequency alone. If pain is persistent but not urgent, book a routine assessment so treatable causes can be checked.

Ask what examinations or swabs may be useful, whether medicines or skin products could be contributing, and how pelvic-floor assessment might help. You can also ask which pain-relief approaches are suitable, how long to try them, and when to return if symptoms do not improve.