What is it about ?
Vulvodynia or vaginal pain is a condition characterized by pain felt in the external part of the female genital organ (the vulva): the labia, the clitoris, the outlet of the urethra and the opening of the vagina. The pain can be very severe, and the woman may no longer tolerate contact or sticky clothing. It is a complicated condition that can cause physical, psychological, sexual and marital problems.
What is its frequency?
Up to 15% of women would experience long-lasting pain or a burning sensation in the external genitals at some point in their life. This pain persists for several months.
How to recognize it?
Your vagina may hurt all the time. This pain is difficult to locate and can radiate to the anus, lower back, and thighs. Pain often intensifies
the evening. Sometimes you feel pain in a specific place, especially when touching.
You may also have pain during sex. This pain can be superficial, at the exit of the vagina. But deeper internal pain is also possible.
How is the diagnosis made?
During a pelvic exam, the doctor will check if they can relate the pain to a specific location. He will also check whether there is any other disease causing the pain, for example a skin disease in the genitals. Usually, it is not necessary to examine the vagina from the inside.
What can you do ?
If you have vaginal pain, it is important to be able to talk about it. We must not stay with your complaints without reacting. Even if you are ashamed to talk about it. Affection can have a big influence on your relationship and your overall mood.
Do not wash your vagina more than once a day. Use only water, and especially not soap! You can relieve the pain by using a skin oil (available from pharmacies) suitable for genital use. It is better to wear loose clothing and not to wear underwear at night. Sex is easier with a little lubricant. Also discuss this with your partner. This is because pain and tension can cause more pain and tension during sex.
What can your doctor do?
The doctor will start by listening to you well. A listening ear is already an important first step. The possible treatments depend on the type of pain.
The possible treatments are as follows:
- stopping or changing the contraceptive pill,
- treatment of a possible vaginal infection,
- pelvic floor muscle exercises at the physiotherapist, especially to learn how to relax the pelvic floor muscles.
- some medications for depression can relieve pain.
- in exceptional cases, it is possible to operate and remove the painful area.
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