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Our experienced physiotherapists can help you manage your pain and get back to your life! We have been successful treating this problem both in-clinic and online. |
WHAT IS IT?
WHAT CAUSES IT?
HOW CAN PHYSIO HELP?
WHAT IS IT?
Vulvodynia is a term used for chronic (lasting longer than 3 months) discomfort and pain, most commonly described as burning or soreness in the vulvar area. Some women report sensations of itching, aching, stinging or throbbing. Vulvodynia can be generalized, meaning it is felt all over the vulvar area, or localized to a specific areas. Vestibulodynia is the term used for pain at the vestibule (opening) of the vagina. Clitorodynia refers to pain around the clitoris.
There are different types of vulvodynia/vestibulodynia. It can be unprovoked, where the pain is continuous and can occur spontaneously. Provoked vulvodynia/vestibulodynia is the term applied with the pain is caused by light touch or pressure to the area from activities such as sexual intercourse, tampon insertion, gynaecologic examination, prolonged sitting or wearing tight pants. The pain intensity can vary from mild to severe, and may occur outside the vulvar area as well.
There are different types of vulvodynia/vestibulodynia. It can be unprovoked, where the pain is continuous and can occur spontaneously. Provoked vulvodynia/vestibulodynia is the term applied with the pain is caused by light touch or pressure to the area from activities such as sexual intercourse, tampon insertion, gynaecologic examination, prolonged sitting or wearing tight pants. The pain intensity can vary from mild to severe, and may occur outside the vulvar area as well.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
Vulvodynia and its subclassifications are not caused by a skin disease or infection. It is suggested that several factors related to hormones, the immune system, irritation or hypersensitivity of vulvar skin nerve fibres, an increased number of nerve endings in the vulvar vestibule, genetic susceptibility, and pelvic floor muscle weakness or spasm are involved. Since the problem lies with the nerve fibres, there is usually nothing visible on the skin.
HOW CAN PHYSIO HELP?
Since the cause of vulvodynia is unknown, treatment is directed toward pain and symptom relief. Products with dyes or perfumes and clothing that is non-cotton may be irritating for the vulvar region, so avoiding them is a good first step. Cold gel packs may help reduce the pain when it is experienced.
Since the pelvic floor musculature may be involved, physical therapy may be recommended. Pelvic floor muscle re-education can help release muscle tensions and relax the pelvic floor tissues. Trigger point therapy may be used. Treatment can also focus on strengthening the weakened muscles, which may contribute to lessening the pain. It is important to keep in mind that no one treatment or combination of treatments works for all women, and that finding the right one may therefore take some time.
Since the pelvic floor musculature may be involved, physical therapy may be recommended. Pelvic floor muscle re-education can help release muscle tensions and relax the pelvic floor tissues. Trigger point therapy may be used. Treatment can also focus on strengthening the weakened muscles, which may contribute to lessening the pain. It is important to keep in mind that no one treatment or combination of treatments works for all women, and that finding the right one may therefore take some time.
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