How long does pelvic floor physiotherapy take to work for vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia is persistent pain in the vulval area that may feel burning, raw, stinging or sore, sometimes without an obvious visible cause. Pelvic floor muscles can become tense or protective in response to pain. Therapy may work on relaxation, breathing, gentle movement, desensitisation and the way muscles respond to touch or pressure.

A meaningful change might be sitting, wearing clothing, walking or sexual activity becoming more tolerable. Symptoms can fluctuate with friction, hormonal changes, stress or infection, so one difficult day does not measure the whole course.

Practise only the exercises that have been selected for you, and keep the effort gentle. Avoid stretching or internal work that causes a flare. Loose clothing, reducing friction and using a suitable lubricant may help while the area is sensitive, but check persistent irritation with a clinician.

Record triggers, pain quality and recovery time. Share this record with the therapist so the plan can focus on relaxation and graded exposure rather than repeatedly provoking symptoms.

Seek a medical assessment for new sores, discharge, bleeding, marked skin change, fever, urinary burning or pain that suddenly becomes severe. Arrange review when symptoms are not settling so infections, skin conditions or other causes can be considered.

Ask whether your pain pattern suggests pelvic muscle involvement, which activities to modify, how to handle a flare, and whether another specialist should assess the vulval skin or nerves.