How effective is pelvic floor physiotherapy for vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia is ongoing vulval pain without one single cause. Pelvic floor muscles may become tight, guarded, weak, or difficult to coordinate when pain has been present. A trained physiotherapist can assess these patterns and create a gradual plan involving breathing, relaxation, movement, hands-on treatment when appropriate, and exercises. Progress may show as less pain with sitting, walking, clothing, examination, or sexual activity rather than complete disappearance of symptoms.

Treatment works as part of a wider plan. Skin irritation, nerve sensitivity, hormonal changes, infection, and emotional stress can also influence symptoms, so the physiotherapist may coordinate with a gynaecologist or pain clinician.

Choose a clinician experienced in pelvic pain and ask what the assessment will involve before an internal examination. Wear comfortable clothing and describe triggers, pain quality, previous treatments, bladder or bowel symptoms, and goals. Do not force stretches or exercises that sharply increase pain. Keep a simple record of activities, flare-ups, and recovery so the plan can be adjusted. More detail about the condition is available under [Vulvodynia](/conditions/vulvodynia/), and treatment information is available under [Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/pelvic-floor-physiotherapy/).

Arrange medical assessment for new vulval pain, sores, unusual discharge, bleeding, fever, urinary difficulty, or rapidly worsening symptoms, because these may need evaluation beyond physiotherapy. Seek urgent help for severe sudden pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, or inability to pass urine. During treatment, contact the clinician if pain remains strongly aggravated after sessions or you develop new numbness, weakness, or skin changes.

Could another condition be contributing to my vulval pain? What improvement should we monitor? Is pelvic floor physiotherapy suitable if touch is very painful? How can we coordinate physiotherapy with medication or other care?