Busting Myths About Vulvodynia

“Defined by the National Vulvodynia Association as ‘chronic vulvar pain without an identifiable cause,’ Vulvodynia affects 16% of women, & just as the definition indicates, it’s a condition that has left doctors stumped. The NVA estimates that 60% of sufferers will see at least three different doctors before finally being diagnosed with vulvodynia” [1]

And herein lies the problem. – Myths abound because there is so much complexity to this condition. Moreover, due to the sensitive nature of having to discuss the issue, not to mention having to have an intimate examination, and the lack of knowledge by a large percentage of GPs (due their their lack of extensive training, and inability to give an accurate diagnosis), many women simply resort to reading about the condition on online forums etc., and unfortunately, some of what they read there is totally wrong.

“Even the experts struggle to pinpoint the best course of treatment because the very definition of vulvodynia entails that the pain doesn’t have a cause, which leaves doctors debating about the best course of action. Not surprisingly, diagnosis is tricky, so to that end, vulvodynia makes for a lot of confusion in the medical community” [1]

Vulvodynia Pain Specialists

Vulvodynia Pain Specialists and other experts such as Vulvodynia physical therapists, understand the highly intricate nature of this most unwelcome of conditions. To that end, if you think that you may have vulvodynia, the best course of action is to book an online or in-person appointment with
an experienced Vulvodynia Pain Specialist who has a long track record in the field. He/she will be able to give you a correct diagnosis, and tell you about the wide range of conventional and cutting-edge treatments that would be suitable for your personal condition.

Naturally, the Pain Specialist will review your medical history, ask you a number of questions about your pain, and if necessary, arrange an brief examination and various tests. If he/she confirms that you do have vulvodynia, then they will arrange a holistic Personalised Treatment Plan for you. This may include a protocol of two or more different types of treatment. When you speak with the Pain Specialist, make sure that you ask them any question which have been troubling you. – For example, you may have read myths and conflicting things on the internet, which have left you completely confused. – So don’t despair, they will set you straight by explaining everything clearly and concisely in simple layman’s terms.

Reference

[1]. National Coalition for Sexual Health (2018). “Millions Of Women With This Condition Are Being Misdiagnosed: Here’s What To Know About Vulvodynia.”
https://nationalcoalitionforsexualhealth.org/media-center/ncsh-in-the-news/millions-of-women-with-this-condition-are-being-misdiagnosed-heres-what-to-know-about-vulvodynia