Vulvodynia, chronic pain of the vulva, causes pain and discomfort that can become frustrating to deal with. This condition can be painful and annoying, and it is a difficult one to deal with.
Have you heard about vulvodynia? Do you think you might have this condition? Your OBGYN can help you understand, diagnose, and treat the condition so you can live your life.
What Causes Vulvodynia?
The causes of vulvodynia are unknown, but several factors may contribute. For example, there may have been an injury to the vulva at one point, but in some cases, environmental irritants and pelvic floor dysfunction could be to blame.
What Does Vulvodynia Feel Like?
There are two types of vulvodynia. Each has different types of symptoms that help gynecologists diagnose it.
Generalized vulvodynia is pain spread all over the vulva and surrounding areas, including clitoris, anus, and thighs. Pain may persist all day or come and go. It can come and go in periods of time as well. For example, you could experience pain for a week and then experience no pain.
Then, there are some cases that are localized. In this case, the pain may only exist when pressure is applied to the area. This pressure may come from sexual intercourse, riding a bike, wearing jeans, or inserting a tampon, for example.
What Is the Impact of Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia has serious physical and emotional implications. The condition can impact your sexuality, making it difficult for you to enjoy yourself. It can also simply cause pain when you are trying to do ordinary things, like work or exercise. Vulvodynia can also impact relationships, especially if your sexuality is impacted by the condition.
Is There Treatment for Vulvodynia?
No cure for vulvodynia is sure to treat the issue, but you may find that there are several treatments that you can incorporate to ease or eliminate the pain. These include removing irritants, taking pain-relief medications, and using topical anesthetics and medications.
Some people also benefit from pelvic floor therapy, biofeedback, and other therapies. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Your doctor will determine if you need surgery based on the symptoms and impact the condition has on your life.
Talk to Your Gynecologist
Your gynecologist can answer other questions you have about vulvodynia. This condition is one that can be treated to some degree. Set up an appointment with your gynecologist today or visit a site like http://www.centraliowaobgyn.com to learn more about your condition.
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