WHAT IS VULVODYNIA?

Vulvodynia, also known as vulvar dysesthesia,   literally means pain, or an unpleasant altered sensation,  in the vulva. It is characterized by itching, burning, stinging or stabbing in the area around the opening of the vagina. Pain can be unprovoked, varying from constant to intermittent, or occur only on provocation such as attempted vaginal penetration with sexual intercourse (dyspareunia), a condition also known as vestibulodynia, or  vulvar vestibulitis syndrome (vvs).

Symptoms may be highly localized at certain points or may be quite diffuse and may range from mildly irritating to completely disabling. While a distinct sore, or area of redness may be visible, often the vulva and the vagina show no abnormalities or infections on gynecological and/or dermatological evaluation. Unfortunately, many doctors are unaware that these conditions even exist, and may mistakenly suggest to patients that this is a psychological condition. It is common for women with vulvodynia to suffer for many years and see many doctors before being correctly diagnosed.