Vaginal Pain (Vulvodynia) (cont.)
The Impact of Vulvodynia Symptoms
The symptoms of vulvodynia are not a sign of a life-threatening condition.
Still, vulvar pain can greatly affect a woman's normal activities. For example,
if symptoms are severe or make sex difficult, this might have an impact on her
relationship. And this, in turn, may affect her self-image and make her feel
depressed. Don't hesitate to seek help. Many women find ways to control the
vulvar pain.
Treatment of Vulvodynia
Although there is no cure, self-care and treatments for vulvodynia can help
bring relief. Women with vulvodynia need to see what works best for them because
this varies from individual to individual. Women may need to try several things
before finding a combination that helps relieve their vulvar pain.
Treatment of Vulvodynia: Self-Care
Here are a few things women can do to help relieve symptoms of vulvodynia or
keep them under control.
Avoid Potential Irritants
It may help to avoid things that could be irritating the vulva. These might
include certain soaps, medications, or douches. Here are a few tips:
- Use dermatologically approved detergent and don't use fabric softener on
panties.
- Use unscented toilet paper that's soft and white.
- Wear 100% white cotton underwear, menstrual pads, and tampons.
- Avoid getting shampoo on the vulvar area.
- Avoid perfumed creams or soaps, pads or tampons, and contraceptive creams
or spermicides.
- Avoid hot tubs or pools with lots of chlorine.
- Rinse the vulva with cool water after urination and intercourse.
- Avoid foods that make urine more irritating. This may include foods such as
greens, beans, berries, chocolate, or nuts.
- Wear loose-fitting pants and skirts; don't wear pantyhose.
- Keep the vulva clean and dry.
Help Ease Pressure
Certain activities put pressure on the vulva.
- Use a water-soluble lubricant during sex.
- Avoid activities that put direct pressure on the vulva. This includes
bicycling and horseback riding.
- Sit on a foam rubber doughnut.
Relieve Pain
These steps may help relieve vulvar pain:
- Soak in lukewarm or cool sitz baths.
- After intercourse, apply ice or a frozen gel pack wrapped inside a hand
towel.
- Try relaxation techniques.
Next: What are the medical treatments for vulvodynia? »
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