Vulvodynia is a disease that causes acute vulvar pain in women. It affects vulva, that is the external organs of the female genitalia. It includes clitoris, vaginal opening, and labia. Until recently, physicians did not consider it to be an actual pain syndrome. Still, many women suffer from chronic Vulvodynia itching but do not undergo diagnosis. Researchers are trying hard to find out the causes of this type of pain and better treatment for Vulvodynia.
Vulvodynia’s possible causes:
Here are some of the probable causes of infection in the vulva:
- Irritation or nerve injury
- Muscle spasms
- Frequent use of antibiotics
- The abnormal response in one’s vulvar cells to trauma or infection
- Hypersensitivity to infection caused by yeast
- Hormonal changes in the female body
- Sexual abuse
- Genetic factors for which the vulva fails to respond correctly to acute inflammation
- Irritation or allergies to certain substances and chemicals
What are the types of Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia is of two basic types:
- Localized Vulvodynia- Localized Vulvodynia causes pain or burning sensation in one particular area of our vulva. The burning sensation or pain is often generated due to pressure or touch.
- Generalized Vulvodynia- Generalized Vulvodynia causes pain in several areas of our vulva at different times. Vulvar pain can be constant or can occur when touched or subjected to pressure.
At what age can a woman have Vulvodynia?
A woman can have Vulvodynia at any age. It is common not just among women in their thirties but also in teenagers. Research works have revealed that almost six million women have Vulvodynia all over the world. So, if you are suffering from Vulvodynia, don’t be shy about it. Take help of a good gynecologist at the earliest.
Symptoms and signs of Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia show symptoms suddenly and symptoms can remain for months or years. Let us have a look at some of the most popular symptoms:
- Itching
- Stinging, burning, or rawness
- Throbbing, soreness, aching
Among these symptoms mentioned above, burning pain is the most common.
The emotional and physical impact of Vulvodynia:
Vulvodynia can have a significant effect on the life of a woman. It often impairs her sex life.
Treatments available to get rid of Vulvodynia:
There are several cures available for Vulvodynia. Treatments and self-care can provide relief to a great extent. All you need to do is find out what works best in your situation. These are the most common options:
- Therapies- Physical therapy for strengthening pelvic muscles can lessen chances of muscle spasms. A newer treatment, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, is also there to treat Vulvodynia.
- Medication- Medications for Vulvodynia include Botox, nerve blocks, estrogen creams, antidepressants, local anesthetics like lidocaine, anticonvulsants and there are some others. It is better to take medicine after visiting a doctor.
- Surgery- In cases of localized Vulvodynia, such as provoked vestibulodynia, doctors often suggest surgery as the best remedy for removing inflamed tissue when other options fail to provide relief from chronic Vulvodynia itching.
If you have such problem, you can consult Dr. Yashica Gudesar who is a renowned Obstetrician and Gynecologist in Dwarka, New Delhi. She has been practicing for the last 16+ years and a god-like figure for many women. You can contact her at Mother and Child Care Clinic which is in Dwarka. Apart from that, she is available in Manipal Hospital, Dwarka as well.
Call : 8800303252 to get her appointment
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