How is vulvodynia treated?

Vulvodynia means vulval pain that persists or recurs without a single infection explaining it. The pain may feel burning, raw, electric, or tender to touch, and can affect sitting, clothing, or sex. Before confirming it, a clinician may check for thrush, skin disease, sores, and other causes of vulval pain. Symptoms can involve overactive or guarded pelvic floor muscles as well as sensitive nerves.

Use bland, fragrance-free products, avoid rubbing and tight clothing, and consider breathable underwear. A clinician may offer a topical medicine or a pain medicine chosen for nerve-related pain. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can address muscle tension, breathing, movement, and relaxation. Dilator therapy may be introduced gradually when penetration is painful, with guidance and consent. Psychological support can help reduce fear and improve coping without implying that the pain is imaginary.

Seek assessment when vulval pain lasts, returns, or changes your ability to sit, sleep, work, or have sex. Arrange prompt review for a new sore, lump, bleeding, discharge, fever, or visible skin change, because these features may point to another condition. Seek urgent care for severe swelling, rapidly worsening pain, or difficulty passing urine.

Ask how other causes were checked, whether your pelvic floor may be contributing, and which treatment can be tried first. Ask how to use physiotherapy or dilators safely and how progress will be reviewed.