Q. What are the treatments for vulvodynia?
A. Since few cases are cured, treatments are directed toward alleviation of symptoms and may provide partial or complete relief. It is important to keep in mind that the cause of vulvodynia is unknown and that there may be multiple causes. Consequently, no one treatment works all the time. Some women respond very well to a particular treatment while others respond poorly to the same treatment. It takes time to find a treatment or combination of therapies that will alleviate the pain.Current treatments available for Vulvodynia include:
- anti-inflammatories
- antihistamines
- local anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine)
- tricyclic antidepressants
- anticonvulsants
- interferon injections
- topical estrogen cream
- surface electromyography (biofeedback)
- low oxalate diet plus calcium citrate
- surgery (for vulvar vestibulitis syndrome only)
Q. Is there anything that can prevent this condition?
A. Since we don't know what causes vulvodynia, we don't know specifically how to prevent it. In general, a woman should minimize trauma and irritation of the vulvar region. This includes eliminating the use of chemicals such as those contained in products such as perfumed sanitary pads, powders, feminine hygiene deodorants, creams and soaps. Women should avoid excessive genital washing and douching. They should also take precautions against yeast infections by wearing white cotton underwear, not sitting in a wet bathing suit, etc. If a vaginal infection is suspected, it is important to have it diagnosed and treated promptly, and to let your physician know if any treatments are making the condition worse.Q. What should women with vulvodynia tell their husbands/partners?
A. Many physicians welcome the presence of husbands/partners during medical consultations for vulvodynia. Since this condition significantly affects the sexual relationship of the couple, it is important that a woman's partner understand what the condition is and how it affects her, both physically and psychologically. Women should be honest and open with their partners about what they are experiencing. Counseling with a sexual therapist is often helpful for couples dealing with vulvodynia. Sexual therapists can help women and their partners confront difficult issues that arise when sexual dysfunction is present in a relationship due to illness and help the couple explore alternate avenues of expressing their love and affection.Q. Where can women find support for this condition?
A. The National Vulvodynia Association has an established support network consisting of nearly 100 contact persons across the United States and other countries. Contact persons are able to talk and exchange information with other women that will improve their knowledge base of vulvodynia. They also serve to help women learn about resources in their geographic area. In some areas of the country, these contact leaders run local support group meetings. Women can learn more about the NVA's support services by visiting the web site .Q. Is there anything else that women should know about vulvodynia?
A. Women need to understand that many physicians are still not familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of vulvodynia. It is essential to find a physician who has experience in the area of chronic vulvar pain. It is equally important for women to educate themselves on the condition. Treatments are available for vulvodynia, but finding the most effective treatment can take some time.Vulvar pain sufferers should monitor their symptoms and communicate their progress to their physicians. Because of the personal nature of this condition, finding an avenue of support and communication, whether it be a spouse, family member, friend or support group is essential.Special thanks thanks to Phyllis Mate for taking time out of
her busy schedule to my questions. For more information about
vulvodynia visit the National
Vulvodynia Association website
Or write to PO Box 4491
Silver Spring, MD 20914
or call 301-299-0775.
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