A woman of any age, beginning in her teen years, may have vulvodynia. There
is no consensus on how many women have vulvodynia. Estimates of women with
vulvodynia range from 200,000 to 6 million. Once thought to mainly affect
whites, African-American and Hispanic women are now known to be equally
affected.
The Physical and Emotional Impact of Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia can have a huge impact on a woman's life. It
can impair her ability to have sex, exercise, socialize, or work. A National
Institutes of Health (NIH) study showed that most women with vulvodynia feel "out of control,"
unable to have sexual intercourse, and unable to fully enjoy life. If this is
true for you, seek the support you need.
Signs and Symptoms of Vulvodynia
Lasting months to years, symptoms of vulvodynia usually begin suddenly.
A burning pain is the single most common symptom of vulvodynia. Some women
describe it as a knife-like pain or like an acid poured on the skin.
Although the vulva usually appears normal, it may look a bit inflamed or
swollen.
How Symptoms of Vulvodynia Vary
Symptoms can vary a great deal in women with vulvodynia. For example, burning
is common but not always present. And the severity of symptoms also varies. The
pressure of bicycling, inserting tampons, or even sitting sometimes prompts
symptoms of vulvodynia or makes symptoms worse.
You may feel symptoms of vulvodynia:
All the time or just once in a while
During activities such as exercise, intercourse, or
walking -- or even
while at rest
In one specific area or throughout your entire vulva
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