Women with vulvodynia have chronic vulvar pain with no
known cause. Until recently, doctors didn't recognize this as a real pain
syndrome. Even today, many women do not receive a diagnosis. They may also remain isolated by a
condition that is not easy to discuss. Researchers are working hard to uncover
the causes of vulvodynia and to find better ways to treat it.
Generalized vulvodynia is pain in different areas of the vulva at different
times. Vulvar pain may be constant or occur every once in a while. Touch or
pressure may or may not prompt it. But this may make the pain worse.
Vulvar vestibulitis
syndrome is pain in the vestibule. This is the entrance
to the vagina. Often a burning
sensation, this type of vulvar pain comes on only
after touch or pressure, such as during intercourse.
Possible Causes of Vulvodynia
Doctors don't know the causes of vulvodynia. And there is no evidence that
infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases, cause vulvodynia.
Researchers are trying to find the causes of vulvodynia. They may include:
Yeast vaginitis is a yeast infection of the vagina. Symptoms include itching, burning, soreness, pain during intercourse and urination, and vaginal discharge. Yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Bacterial vaginosis is an abnormal vaginal condition that is characterized by vaginal discharge resulting from an overgrowth of normal bacteria in the vagina. Although it may cause some disturbing symptoms (discharge and odor), it is not dangerous and cannot be passed by sex. Diagnosis becomes important to exclude serious infections like gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Many treatment options are available such as oral antibiotics and vaginal gels.
Menopause is the time in a woman's life when menstrual periods permanently stop, also called the “change of life." Menopause symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular vaginal bleeding, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, urinary incontinence, weight gain, and emotional symptoms such as mood swings. Treatment of menopausal symptoms varies, and should be discussed with your physician.
Itching can be a common problem. Itches can be localized or generalized. There are many causes of itching to include: infection (jock itch, vaginal itch), disease (hyperthyroidism, liver or kidney), reactions to drugs, and skin infestations (pubic or body lice). Treatment for itching varies depending on the cause of the itch.
Vaginitis is any type of vaginal infection or inflammation. The six most common types of vaginitis are Candida (yeast infections), bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis vaginitis, chlamydia vaginitis, viral vaginitis, and noninfectious vaginitis. Symptoms include itching, burning, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Treatment is different for each type of vaginitis.
Vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy occurs in women during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. With vaginal atrophy, the lining of the vaginal wall becomes thinner, drier, less elastic, and light pink to bluish in color. Symptoms of vaginal atrophy include vaginal dryness, itching, irritation, and/or pain during intercourse. Treatment options for vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy include hormone treatment and over-the-counter vaginal lubricating and moisturizing products.
Sexual dysfunction refers to a problem that arises during any phase of the sexual response cycle, preventing an individual or couple from experiencing sexual satisfaction. Physical, medical, and psychological conditions may affect sexual functioning, resulting in inhibited sexual desire, inability to become aroused, lack of orgasm, and painful intercourse. Treating the underlying physical and psychological problems usually resolves most female sexual problems.
Sexual health information including birth control, impotence, herpes, sexually transmitted diseases, staying healthy, women's sexual health concerns, and men's sexual health concerns. Learn about the most common sexual conditions affecting men and women.
Menopause is often associated with a change in sexual functioning. Loss of estrogen, bladder control issues, anxiety, stress, health concerns, medications, and sleep disturbances often result in a decrease in libido. Though there are currently no good drugs for treating sexual problems in women, there are ways to increase intimacy with a partner and treat vaginal dryness.
Vaginitis refers to any type of inflammation or infection of the vagina.
There are different types of vaginitis including yeast vaginitis (yeast
infection), bacterial vaginosis, Trichomonas vaginalis infection, and
non-infectious vaginitis due to chemical irritation.
Treatment for vaginitis depends upon the cause. Antibiotics are used to
treat vaginal infections.
Some forms of vaginitis are due to
sexually-transmitted diseases
(STDs).
Symptoms of vaginitis can include burning,
itching, discomfort, pain with
urination or sexual intercourse, and vaginal discharge.
What is vaginitis?
Vaginitis is a term for any infection or inflammation of the vagina.
Womens Health RSS
Healthy Living Tips
This site complies with the