What does pain during sex feel like with vulvodynia?

Pain may be felt at the entrance to the vagina, on the vulvar skin, or more broadly around the area. Light touch, pressure, friction, or penetration can trigger symptoms, and discomfort may continue after sexual activity. Some people notice symptoms with tight clothing, sitting, or inserting a tampon as well. The skin may look normal even when the sensation is intense, so an examination and careful symptom history are useful.

Pause sexual activity that causes pain and use clear communication about touch and pressure. Avoid scented washes, deodorants, and other irritants around the vulva; choose gentle washing and loose, breathable clothing. A clinician may assess for infection, skin conditions, pelvic-floor tension, or nerve-related pain. Treatment can include topical medicine, pelvic-floor therapy, pain-management strategies, or counselling, depending on the findings.

Book an assessment when vulvar pain lasts, returns, or interferes with sex, sleep, movement, or tampon use. Seek prompt care for new sores, blisters, bleeding, fever, foul-smelling discharge, rapidly worsening swelling, or severe pain. Those changes can require treatment for another condition as well as evaluation of vulvodynia.

Where is my pain located, and what causes should be checked? Could a skin or pelvic-floor problem be contributing? What products or treatments should I avoid, and how can we measure progress?