Which specialist treats vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia is persistent vulval pain without one single cause that explains every case. A gynaecologist takes a careful history, examines the vulval skin and pelvic floor, and considers infection, skin conditions, nerve sensitivity, hormonal factors, and pain during sex. Testing is guided by findings rather than assumed from the pain alone.

A pelvic-floor physiotherapist can assess muscle guarding, tension, and movement patterns that may amplify pain. Some people are also referred to a pain specialist, dermatologist, or sexual-health clinician. Treatment is usually tailored and may combine education, gentle rehabilitation, symptom relief, and support for intimacy.

Ask your family doctor for a referral to a gynaecologist or vulval-pain clinic. Before the visit, note where the pain is, whether touch or clothing triggers it, how long it lasts, and whether urination or sex changes it. List creams, washes, medicines, and treatments you have already tried.

Use unscented products, avoid scrubbing, and choose loose breathable clothing while waiting for assessment. Do not keep using a treatment that causes burning without discussing it with a clinician.

Arrange a medical review for ongoing vulval pain, pain during sex, itching, sores, skin colour changes, or pain that interferes with sitting, walking, sleep, or urination. Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing swelling, fever, pus, severe bleeding, or sudden intense pain. These warning signs need examination because they can reflect a problem other than vulvodynia.

What conditions should we rule out? Is my pelvic floor contributing to the pain? Would pelvic-floor physiotherapy help? How should I care for the skin? What changes should prompt an earlier review?