Inflammation and vulvodynia: what to know

Vulvodynia can cause burning, stinging, rawness, or tenderness around the vulva. Pain may be present without touch, or triggered by clothing, sitting, inserting a tampon, or sexual activity. Infection, skin conditions, hormonal changes, nerve sensitivity, and pelvic-floor muscle tension can cause similar symptoms or coexist with vulvodynia. Examination helps rule out treatable causes; a normal-looking vulva does not mean the pain is imaginary.

Use plain water or a gentle unscented cleanser externally, avoid douching and fragranced products, and choose loose breathable clothing. A clinician may discuss topical treatment, pain-modulating medicine, pelvic-floor physiotherapy, or gradual desensitisation approaches. If penetration is painful, pause rather than pushing through symptoms. Treatment is individual and may combine physical, skin, and pain-management strategies over time.

Arrange an assessment for new, persistent, or worsening vulval pain, especially if you also have sores, unusual discharge, bleeding, fever, urinary difficulty, or a new lump. Seek urgent help for severe rapidly increasing pain, marked swelling, or inability to pass urine. Sudden symptoms after a new product or medicine also deserve advice.

Ask what causes have been checked, whether the pelvic-floor muscles are involved, and how to protect the skin while symptoms settle. Discuss options such as pelvic-floor physiotherapy or vaginal dilator therapy, how to use them safely, and when progress should be reviewed.