Are you Experiencing Burning or Stinging in your Vulvar Area? Vulvodynia May be the Cause

Vulvodynia is a condition characterized by persistent pain in the vulvar region without an apparent cause.  Often described as a burning, stinging, or raw sensation in the vulvar area, the pain may be constant or intermittent, and it can make everyday activities like sitting, wearing tight clothing, or engaging in sexual intercourse extremely uncomfortable. Up to 1 in 4 women will experience pain during sex at some point in their life, and vulvodynia may be the cause.

Vulvodynia Potential Factors

Despite its prevalence, the exact cause of vulvodynia remains somewhat elusive. Several factors may contribute to its development:

1. Nerve Sensitization: An increase in nerve sensitivity within the vulvar region can result in heightened pain perception, even in response to non-painful stimuli.

2. Muscle Dysfunction: Dysfunction or tension in the pelvic floor muscles can lead to chronic pain. These muscles play an important role in supporting pelvic organs and controlling bodily functions.

4. Inflammation: Inflammatory responses within the vulvar tissue can trigger pain and discomfort.

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to estrogen levels, can impact the health of vulvar tissues and contribute to pain.

5. Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals might have a genetic predisposition making them more susceptible to developing vulvodynia.

What is the vulva region?

 It is helpful to understand the anatomy of the vulvar region. The vulva is the external female genitalia. It is made up of several structures: 

• Mons pubis: tissue located directly in front of the pubic bones, and this is usually covered in pubic hair.

• Vulvar vestibule: located between the labia minora and below the clitoris. This structure contains the vaginal opening and the urethral opening.

• Labia majora and minora: the larger and smaller lips surrounding the vestibule.

• Prepuce or clitoral hood: The skin surrounding the clitoris.

• Clitoris: Similar to the glans penis in males, and contains erectile tissue. 

Vulvodynia types

There are two types of Vulvodynia:

Localized Vulvodynia
Many women have pain at only one vulvar area. Most women with localized vulvodynia have provoked vulvodynia - pain occurs only with touch or pressure, e.g., having sex, gynecologic exams, inserting a tampon, or wearing tight pants. Pain may also be localized at the clitoris, referred to as clitorodynia. Pain may be unprovoked, provoked or mixed.

Generalized Vulvodynia
In this subtype, pain is not limited to a specific spot but is more diffuse, affecting a larger portion of the vulvar region. The pain is spontaneous and often constant, there can be times when it is less painful. Pain may be provoked, spontaneous or both.

Pelvic Floor Therapy (PFT) Can Help

 Pelvic Floor Therapy (PFT) is a specialized form of physical or occupational therapy designed to address issues related to the pelvic floor muscles and their associated structures. While vulvodynia's exact cause might be multifaceted, the role of pelvic floor dysfunction cannot be underestimated. Here's how PFT can provide relief:

1. Muscle Relaxation: A skilled pelvic floor therapist can guide you through exercises that help relax and release tension in the pelvic floor muscles. This can alleviate pain caused by muscle dysfunction and reduce nerve sensitization.

2. Biofeedback: PFT may include biofeedback techniques, allowing you to gain awareness and control over your pelvic floor muscles' function. Biofeedback helps you understand how to relax and engage these muscles effectively.

3. Stretching and Manual Techniques: Therapists use targeted stretching and manual techniques to release trigger points and tension within the pelvic floor muscles, promoting improved circulation and reduced pain.

4. Education: Understanding your condition is crucial for managing it effectively. A pelvic floor therapist can educate you about vulvodynia, its potential causes, and strategies to minimize triggers and flare-ups.

5. Behavioral Modifications: PFT can help you identify and modify behaviors that exacerbate your symptoms, such as poor posture or excessive muscle tension.

6. Collaboration: Working closely with your healthcare team - gynecologists and pain specialists - a pelvic floor therapist ensures a comprehensive and integrated approach to managing your vulvodynia.

Pelvic floor therapy offers a holistic approach, targeting both physical and emotional aspects of the condition. If you're experiencing symptoms, reach out to the therapists at Solstice Physiotherapy and take a step toward relief. We will assess your specific needs and develop an individualized treatment plan.

If you have questions and want to speak with one of our physical therapists, email us at info@solsticept.com or call (929) 269-2505 to schedule a free, 15-minute consultation.