7 Common Vulvodynia Symptoms You Should Know About

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition affecting the vulvar area that can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. This condition is characterized by persistent discomfort in the external female genital area without any identifiable cause. Understanding the symptoms of vulvodynia is crucial for early recognition and proper medical consultation. While the exact cause remains unclear in many cases, recognizing the signs can help women seek appropriate care and management strategies.

The symptoms of vulvodynia can vary greatly from person to person, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. Some women experience constant pain, while others may only feel discomfort during specific activities or when pressure is applied to the area. Below are the most common symptoms associated with this condition.

1. Burning Sensation in the Vulvar Area

One of the hallmark symptoms of vulvodynia is a persistent burning sensation in the vulvar region. This burning feeling can be constant or intermittent, and many women describe it as feeling similar to a chemical burn or as if the area has been scalded.

The intensity of the burning can vary throughout the day and may worsen during certain activities such as sitting for prolonged periods, wearing tight clothing, or during physical exercise. Some women report that the burning sensation is localized to specific areas of the vulva, while others experience it more diffusely across the entire region.

This symptom can be particularly distressing because it persists even when there are no visible signs of irritation, infection, or injury. The burning may also intensify during or after sexual activity, making intimate relationships challenging for many women with vulvodynia.

2. Chronic Vulvar Pain

Chronic vulvar pain is perhaps the most defining characteristic of vulvodynia. This pain typically persists for at least three months and occurs without any obvious external cause such as infection or skin disease. The pain can be described in various ways, including stinging, rawness, or a feeling of soreness.

The pain may be:

• Constant and unrelenting, present throughout the day and night
• Provoked, occurring only when the area is touched or during specific activities
• Localized to one specific area, such as the vestibule (opening of the vagina)
• Generalized across the entire vulvar region

Many women find that the pain interferes with routine activities such as sitting, exercising, or wearing certain types of clothing. The chronic nature of this pain can also lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and depression, making it important to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition.

3. Painful Sexual Intercourse (Dyspareunia)

Dyspareunia, or painful sexual intercourse, is one of the most commonly reported symptoms of vulvodynia and often serves as the primary reason women seek medical attention. The pain during intercourse can occur at the point of penetration or during deeper penetration, and it may persist even after sexual activity has ended.

Women with vulvodynia often describe the pain during sex as sharp, stabbing, or burning. This discomfort can make sexual intimacy extremely difficult or impossible, which can strain relationships and affect emotional well-being. The anticipation of pain may also lead to involuntary muscle tightening in the pelvic floor, further exacerbating the problem.

Some women experience pain only during sexual activity (provoked vulvodynia), while others have constant pain that simply worsens with intercourse. The severity can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that makes any form of penetration intolerable.

4. Stinging or Rawness

A stinging sensation or feeling of rawness in the vulvar area is another frequently reported symptom. Women often describe this feeling as if the skin has been abraded or scraped, even though there is no visible damage or injury to the tissue.

This rawness can make everyday activities uncomfortable, including:

• Walking or moving in certain ways
• Wearing underwear or tight-fitting pants
• Using tampons or menstrual cups
• Undergoing gynecological examinations

The stinging sensation may be continuous or may come and go unpredictably. Some women notice that it worsens with exposure to certain irritants such as soaps, detergents, perfumes, or even urine. The feeling of rawness can also intensify after activities that involve friction or pressure on the vulvar area.

5. Itching and Irritation

While burning and pain are more common, some women with vulvodynia also experience itching and irritation in the vulvar region. This itching differs from that caused by yeast infections or other dermatological conditions in that it typically does not respond to standard anti-itch treatments.

The itching associated with vulvodynia may be:

• Mild to moderate in intensity
• Accompanied by other symptoms such as burning or stinging
• Persistent despite good hygiene and avoidance of irritants
• Not relieved by typical over-the-counter remedies

Many women report that scratching provides only temporary relief and may actually worsen the overall discomfort. The irritation can make the vulvar area feel sensitive and reactive to touch, making it difficult to find comfortable clothing or sitting positions.

6. Throbbing or Aching Pain

Some women with vulvodynia experience a throbbing or aching quality to their vulvar pain. This type of discomfort is often described as a deep, pulsating sensation that can be constant or intermittent. The throbbing may feel similar to the aching associated with muscle strain or inflammation.

This throbbing pain can be particularly noticeable when:

• Sitting for extended periods
• During or after physical activity
• At night, potentially interfering with sleep
• Following any activity that puts pressure on the pelvic region

The aching sensation may extend beyond the vulvar area to include the entire pelvic region, including the inner thighs, lower abdomen, or lower back. This can make it difficult to pinpoint the exact source of discomfort and may lead to confusion about the underlying cause.

7. Increased Sensitivity to Touch

Heightened sensitivity to touch, known as allodynia, is a significant symptom of vulvodynia. This means that even light touch or pressure that would normally not cause pain becomes uncomfortable or painful. Women with this symptom may find that the gentlest contact with the vulvar area triggers discomfort.

This increased sensitivity can make various routine activities challenging:

• Wearing underwear or tight clothing
• Using toilet paper after urination
• Sitting on hard surfaces
• Riding a bicycle or exercising
• Undergoing gynecological examinations with a speculum
• Inserting tampons or other vaginal products

The hypersensitivity can fluctuate, with some days being more tolerable than others. Factors such as stress, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, or exposure to irritants may influence the degree of sensitivity experienced.

Main Causes of Vulvodynia

While the exact cause of vulvodynia remains unknown in many cases, researchers have identified several potential contributing factors:

Nerve Injury or Irritation: Damage or abnormal response in the nerves that supply the vulvar area may lead to chronic pain signals even in the absence of actual tissue damage.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction: Weakness, spasm, or tension in the pelvic floor muscles can contribute to vulvar pain and discomfort.

Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels, particularly during menopause or while using certain hormonal contraceptives, may play a role in developing vulvodynia.

Previous Infections: Recurrent yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or other vaginal infections may trigger vulvodynia in some women, even after the infection has been successfully treated.

Genetic Factors: Some women may have a genetic predisposition to inflammatory responses or increased sensitivity to pain that makes them more susceptible to developing vulvodynia.

Allergic Reactions or Sensitivities: Chronic exposure to irritants such as soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, or personal hygiene products may trigger or worsen symptoms.

Past Physical or Sexual Trauma: Previous injury to the pelvic region or a history of sexual trauma may increase the risk of developing vulvodynia.

Immune System Factors: Abnormal inflammatory responses or immune system dysfunction may contribute to chronic vulvar pain.

Prevention Strategies

While vulvodynia cannot always be prevented, especially when the cause is unknown, certain lifestyle modifications and practices may help reduce the risk or minimize symptom severity:

Avoid Irritants: Use unscented, hypoallergenic products for personal hygiene. Avoid douches, feminine hygiene sprays, scented toilet paper, and bubble baths that may irritate the vulvar area.

Choose Appropriate Clothing: Wear loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear and avoid tight pants or synthetic fabrics that can trap moisture and create friction.

Practice Gentle Hygiene: Clean the vulvar area with plain water or mild, unscented soap. Pat dry gently rather than rubbing, and avoid excessive washing that can strip natural protective oils.

Use Proper Lubrication: During sexual activity, use adequate water-based or silicone-based lubricants to reduce friction. Avoid products with warming or tingling properties that may be irritating.

Manage Stress: Since stress can exacerbate pain conditions, incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or counseling into your routine.

Maintain Pelvic Floor Health: Consider pelvic floor physical therapy to ensure proper muscle function and avoid excessive tension that may contribute to pain.

Choose Comfortable Seating: Use cushioned seats or donut-shaped pillows when sitting for extended periods to reduce pressure on the vulvar area.

Stay Informed: Regular gynecological check-ups can help identify and address any issues early, before they develop into chronic conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between vulvodynia and a yeast infection?

Vulvodynia is chronic pain lasting at least three months without an identifiable cause, while a yeast infection is caused by fungal overgrowth and typically presents with discharge, severe itching, and visible redness. Yeast infections respond to antifungal treatment, whereas vulvodynia does not have a simple cure and requires comprehensive management.

Can vulvodynia go away on its own?

In some cases, vulvodynia symptoms may improve or resolve spontaneously, but this is not guaranteed. Many women experience chronic symptoms that require active management. Early intervention and appropriate care can improve outcomes and quality of life.

Is vulvodynia a sexually transmitted infection?

No, vulvodynia is not a sexually transmitted infection and is not contagious. It is a chronic pain condition that may have multiple contributing factors, but it cannot be passed from one person to another through sexual contact or any other means.

At what age does vulvodynia typically occur?

Vulvodynia can affect women of any age, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. However, it is most commonly diagnosed in women of reproductive age. The condition does not discriminate based on age, race, or sexual activity level.

Can I still have children if I have vulvodynia?

Yes, vulvodynia does not affect fertility or your ability to become pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term. However, the condition may make sexual intercourse painful, which could make conception more challenging. Additionally, you should discuss your condition with your healthcare provider to develop a management plan for pregnancy and childbirth.

How is vulvodynia diagnosed?

Vulvodynia is typically diagnosed through a process of elimination. A healthcare provider will conduct a thorough medical history, physical examination, and may perform tests to rule out infections, skin conditions, or other identifiable causes of vulvar pain. The diagnosis is made when pain persists for at least three months without another explanation.

Can stress make vulvodynia worse?

Yes, stress and anxiety can exacerbate vulvodynia symptoms. Stress can increase muscle tension, heighten pain perception, and trigger inflammatory responses in the body. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, counseling, or other methods may help reduce symptom severity.

Should I avoid sexual activity if I have vulvodynia?

You do not necessarily need to avoid sexual activity entirely, but you may need to modify your approach. Communicate openly with your partner, use adequate lubrication, try different positions that minimize pressure on painful areas, and stop if pain occurs. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you develop strategies to maintain intimacy while managing symptoms.

References:

• Mayo Clinic – Vulvodynia
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists – Vulvodynia
• NHS – Vulvodynia
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Vulvodynia
• Cleveland Clinic – Vulvodynia