Vulvodynia (persistent vulval pain)
Other causes of vulval pain
Pain in the vulva isn't always vulvodynia.
It can have a number of other causes, such as:
- persistent vaginal thrush or other vaginal infections
- sensitivity to something touching the vulva, such as soap, bubble bath ormedicated creams(known as irritant contact dermatitis )
- a drop in the hormone oestrogen causing dryness of the vulva, particularly during the menopause
- a recurrent herpes infection
- lichen sclerosus or lichen planus (skin conditions thatcan cause intense irritation and soreness of the vulva)
- in rare cases, Behcet's disease (acondition of the blood vessels that can cause genital ulcers) or Sjogren's syndrome (a disorder of the immune system that can cause vaginal dryness )
Your doctor may want to rule out these conditions before treating you for vulvodynia. Some women can have a combination of problems, for example recurrent thrush and vulvodynia, with both needing proper treatment to reduce pain.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about the symptoms of vulvodynia, what the treatments are and what else can cause vulval pain.
Symptoms of vulvodynia
The main symptom of vulvodynia is persistent pain in and around the vulva.The vulva usually looks normal. The pain may be: a burning, stinging or sore sensation triggered by touch, such as during
When to get medical advice
See your GP or visit your local genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic if you have persistent vulval pain. Vulvodynia is unlikely to get better on its own and some of the treatments are only available
Treatments for vulvodynia
A combination of some of the following treatments can often help relieve symptoms of vulvodynia and reduce its impact on your life: Self-care Gels and lubricants Medication Physiotherapy
Possible causes of vulvodynia
The exact cause of vulvodynia is unknown. It's thought it may be the result of a problem with the nerves supplying the vulva, although it's not clear what causes this. Possible triggers that havebee
Other causes of vulval pain
Pain in the vulva isn't always vulvodynia. It can have a number of other causes, such as: persistent vaginal thrush or other vaginal infections sensitivity to something touching the vulva, such as
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