This article talks about a common pain in women, which is vulvodynia. What do you know about this pain? What are its causes? How can it be treated?

We tend to avoid talking about genitals and sexual health in our society in general and in any context. This is a big mistake, especially in the medical context; because diseases and pain in the genital areas are usually very painful. It can also affect marital relations and mental health as well, so it is important to raise awareness about it.

What Is Vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort in the area around the opening of the vagina (vulva). It may be idiopathic or have a known cause.  It can affect women of all ages and last for at least three months. These pains can last for months or years and become chronic. If it continues for a long time, it can affect the quality of life. As the feeling of pain, burning, or discomfort associated with this pain is extremely bothersome to the point where sitting for a long period becomes unbearable. Reassuringly, there are plenty of treatment options that can relieve this pain.¹ ²

What Are the Symptoms of Vulvodynia?

The main symptom of vulvodynia is pain in and around the vulva area. This pain can be described as:

• Tingling.
• Itch.
• A burning sensation.
• The presence of ulcers.
• Muscle contraction.
• A feeling of pain during sexual intercourse.
• The pain is continuous and increases with sitting.
• It may be triggered by touching the vulva area.

The pain may be localized in a specific area, such as the vaginal opening, or it may be more widespread and include the entire vulvar area.¹ ²

These symptoms are the most common associated symptoms. However, they can differ from one woman to another. So we encourage ypu to visit a doctor if you experience any pain or discomfort in the vulvar area.

What Are the Causes of Vulvodynia?

Doctors have not yet been able to accurately determine the causes of vulvodynia. However, it is likely the result of injury or a problem with the innervation of the vulva.

This problem may be caused by:

• Childbirth.
• Previous surgery.
• An entrapped nerve.
• Previous acute vaginitis.

There are also some non-neurological factors that can lead to this condition, including:

• Hormonal changes.
• Allergies or sensitive skin.
• Spasms or weakness in the pelvic floor muscles that support the uterus, bladder and intestines.

Vulvodynia is not contagious, and it is absolutely not related to personal hygiene, nor is it a sign of any other disease. However it is important to be examined by a doctor to rule out any serious problems or diseases and to treat this pain. Also, the doctor may not be able to identify or predict the exact cause.¹ ²

How Can Vulvodynia Be Treated and Avoided?

There are several treatment options that a doctor may suggest to help alleviate and reduce the impact of vulvodynia on your life. These options include:

1. Topical medications, such as certain types of creams or ointments that numb or treat the area of pain.
2. Some oral medications, including antidepressants which can help reduce nerve pain in the vulvar area. It is not recommended to take these medications without a prescription.
3. Physical therapy; it helps relax the muscles in the pelvic and vulvar area, potentially contributing to pain relief.
4. In some rare cases, surgery may be necessary.² ³

You may need to try more than one treatment to determine the most suitable and effective option for your condition. There is no specific or fixed time for treatment and recovery, but it may take several months. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the doctor’s instructions.

Tips to Avoid Injury

There are some general tips and measures that can be followed to avoid experiencing or living with vulvodynia, of which:

1. Avoiding stress.
2. Avoiding tight-fitting clothes.² ³
3. Wearing cotton underwear.
4. Avoiding scented sanitary products.

If you have vulvodynia, do not ignore your symptoms, regardless of their severity. Vulvodynia can cause emotional problems, decreased libido, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and many other complications that affect your quality of life. It is also important not to be embarrassed discussing these symptoms and visiting a doctor. The doctor can help you relieve this pain, regardless of its cause.

We, at Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, emphasise the importance of raising awareness about pain and diseases in the genital areas. We also encourage all women to speak up about any concerns they have regarding their sexual health, as they are nothing to feel embarrassed about.

References:

[1] Mayoclinic

[2] NHS UK

[3] Cleveland Clinic