The vulva is defined as the external genital area in a woman. It is composed of fatty tissue that forms the labia and clitoris. Some women will experience what is called Vulvodynia, which means pain in the vulva. This pain can be described as a raw feeling with burning, stinging and itching. Simple daily activities such as walking or sitting can exacerbate the pain. Experts believe that vulvodynia is largely under diagnosed. This is partly due to the fact that there are no visible signs of vulvodynia. In most cases, the vulva will appear completely normal.

Vulvodynia vulvar pain is the word for pain in the vulva. The pain is usually described as a burning, stinging, itching, irritating or a raw feeling. Vulvodynia is more common in white women. It's rare in women of other races. Vulvodynia is different from itching or vulvar pruritus. Vulvodynia actually precludes itching because the burning and pain cause an intolerance to scratching. This condition is a cause of vulval burning and soreness usually as a consequence of irritation or hypersensitivity of the nerve fibres in the vulval skin. The condition is one of exclusion and the diseases listed in the differential diagnosis need to be considered.

Symptoms of Vulvodynia

Burning of the vaginal area.

Soreness of the vaginal area.

Itching of the vaginal area.

Stinging of the vaginal area.

Painful intercourse.

The vaginal area feels raw.

Throbbing in the vaginal area

Vulvar tissue may look minimally inflamed or swollen.

Causes of Vulvodynia

Frequent yeast infections.

Injury to or irritation of the nerves surrounding your vulvar region.

Chemical irritation of the external genitals (from soaps or detergents in clothing).

Allergies or a localized hypersensitivity of the skin.

Past or present genital warts.

High levels of oxalate crystals in the urine.

Some cases of vulvodynia may be due to compression or disease of the pudendal nerve, one of the main nerves that relays sensation to and from the genitals.

Treatment of Vulvodynia

Medications - Tricyclic anti depressants such as amitriptyline can help with chronic pain. Anticonvulsants such as Tegretol and Neurontin may help with pain also. Antihistamines can reduce itching.

Biofeedback therapy can help reduce pain by teaching you how to control specific body responses.

Surgery is an option for some women only when other treatments do not produce satisfactory relief. There are two types of surgery available: scalpel and laser.

Sitz bath - Sitting in a warm saline bath may help you feel better but be careful, it also has the potential to aggravate your discomfort.

Some types of vulvar pain get better with creams or pills made to treat yeast infections.

It is important that you look for triggers that cause flare ups of vulvodynia. Certain types of soaps, clothing dyes, bath product or toilet tissue can all be culprits. Avoid tight fitting pantyhose and nylon underwear. Stay out of hot tubs and remove wet bathing suits or workout clothes as soon as possible. Avoid excessive washing of the affected area. A cool compress placed directly on your genital area may provide relief from the pain and itching. The most important thing to do is work with your doctor to find the best solution to alleviate your symptoms of vulvodynia.

Read About Home Remedies also Read about Vulvodynia and Stye Treatment

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