The Prevalence and Impact of Vulvodynia
“Vulvodynia in a woman’s life can be devastating due to its consequences in sexuality & intimacy, activities of daily living, & psychological well-being. Although it is currently considered as a primary chronic pain condition, it is still believed that different inflammatory, genetic, hormonal, neuropathic, muscular factors, etc. may be involved in its development. Advances in pain neuroscience & the central sensitization paradigm have led to a new approach to vulvodynia from a neurobiological perspective” [1], & this is why consulting an experienced Vulva Pain Specialist, is essential for an accurate diagnosis & a cutting-edge holistic personalised treatment plan
Did You Know?
Are you aware that in the UK, vulvodynia affects around 15 in every 100 women? [2]. Moreover: “10-16% of women worldwide experience vulvodynia. Only 60% of women reporting chronic vulvar pain seek treatment, and only about half will receive a correct diagnosis. 45 to 65% of gynecologists lack diagnostic knowledge of vulvodynia. And about 20% of gynecologists actually know about vulvodynia but don’t feel able to initiate treatment” [3]. On top of this, in Britain, few GPs have actually received the necessary essential training and years of practical experience held by Vulva Consultants; thus bringing about a scenario whereby patients who rely on their GPs, are potentially subject to an inaccurate diagnosis and ineffectual treatment. In contract, a Vulva Pain Doctor can be relied upon to give a precise diagnosis, and develop a Holistic Personalised Treatment Plan which comprises both conventional and state-of-the-art newer research-backed treatments.
“Vulvodynia occurs in women of all ages, including adolescents, & is prevalent in women of all races, religions & ethnic backgrounds” [4]
So How Does Vulvodynia Impact Sufferers?
Constant pain in the vulva (vulvodynia), can have a hugely negative impact on every aspect of a woman’s life. Moreover, it can have a knock-on effect on their partner [4]. It is a long-term condition which is characterised by:
• Stinging sensations
• Stabbing sensations
• Burning sensations
• A feeling as though acid is being poured over the skin
• A continual knife-like pain [4]
For some women, the pain is constant; while others only suffer pain on contact with something, or due to pressure (for instance, during extended periods of sitting, or during sexual intercourse) [4].
References
[1]. Torres-Cueco R, Nohales-Alfonso F. Vulvodynia—It Is Time to Accept a New Understanding from a Neurobiological Perspective. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18(12):6639.
[2]. British Association of Dermatologists (2021). “Vulvodynia and vestibulodynia.”
https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/vulvodynia-and-vestibulodynia/
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/12/6639
[3]. Kraft, O. (2022). “The Women’s Health Condition That Impacts 16% Of Women Worldwide That We Don’t Talk About.”
https://femtechnology.org/2022/02/07/the-womens-health-condition-that-impacts-16-of-women-worldwide-that-we-dont-talk-about/
[4]. National Vulvodynia Association (2023). “Vulvodynia: Get the Facts.”