Who is at Risk From Vulvodynia?
“The incidence rates of vulvodynia differ by age, ethnicity & marital status. Onset is more likely among women with previous symptoms of vulvodynia; those with intermediate symptoms not meeting criteria for vulvodynia, & among those with pre-existing sleep, psychological & co-morbid pain disorders. This suggests vulvodynia is an episodic condition with a potentially identifiable prodromal phase” [1]
To that end, booking a consultation with a Vulva Specialist as soon as possible, is the smart way to ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis, & get started on a Holistic, Personalised Treatment Plan, right away
The Low-Down
Vulvodynia is classed a typically long-term vulvar pain issue, which occurs in women of all ethnic groups and ages. The level of pain which sufferers experience, is on a scale from mild to excruciating. Moreover, the pain could be spontaneous, provokable, or both [1]. Vulva pain can have a very serious physical and psychological impact on everyday living; and in a significant percentage of cases, negative affect sexual relationships.
This vulva pain which impacts women across both socioeconomic and ethnic groups, can arise through their lifespan. Yet, despite the fact that vulvodynia is so widespread, and that
a substantial amount of research has already been undertaken; the data on the incidence of this disorder is limited. Moreover, the factors linked to its onset, are still not broadly understood [1]. And this is why seeing a Vulva Doctor, as opposed to a General Practitioner (GP), who is very unlikely to have received the years of specialist training and practice, is a wise move.
Potential Risk Factors for Vulvodynia
These include:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• A history of abuse
• PTST (post-traumatic stress disorder) [2].
Causes of Vulvodynia
“There’s no proof that infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), lead to vulvodynia” [2]
However, vulvodynia could come about from:
• Nerve irritation or injury
• Genetic factors which cause the vulva to under-respond to chronic inflammation
• Vulvar cells reacting abnormally to a trauma or infection
• Spasms in particular muscles
• Being hypersensitive to yeast infections
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Irritations or allergies caused by chemicals of other elements
• Overuse of antibiotics
• A history of abuse [2].
When you have your initial in-person or online consultation with a Pain Doctor, they will review your medical history, and arrange for any necessary tests and scans, that will help them pinpoint any potentially underlying causes of your vulvodynia.
References
[1]. Reed et al. Factors associated with vulvodynia incidence. Obstet Gynecol. 2014 Feb;123(2 Pt 1):225-231.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3913176/
[2]. WebMD (2022). “Vulvodynia.”
“https://www.webmd.com/women/vulvodynia” \l “091e9c5e8010cadf-1-