Treatment of Vulvodynia: Medication, Therapies, and
Surgery
There is no one treatment for vulvodynia that works for
all women. Women may need to try a combination of treatments for the best
results. These are types of treatment for vulvodynia your doctor may suggest.
Also, remember that chronic pain can affect you emotionally. Consider therapy or a support group.
Physical therapy, which involves exercise to strengthen
pelvic muscles and
lessen muscle spasms
Biofeedback, which helps you learn to relax vaginal muscles to lessen pain
Surgery
If you have a type of vulvodynia called vulvar vestibulitis syndrome, your
doctor may suggest surgery to remove painful tissue, especially if other options
have not brought relief.
10 Important Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Vulvodynia
Going to the doctor can be intimidating. You might feel rushed and forget to
ask questions that are important. It's always a good idea to know what to ask
beforehand and to take notes when with the doctor. Some of the questions below
may be worth asking. Print out this page and take it with you to your next
appointment.
How can you be certain of my diagnosis?
What can I do at home to help control my symptoms?
Will pain medications make me feel better?
What treatment do you recommend for me?
Are there any activities I should avoid?
How might vulvodynia affect my sex life?
What should I tell my partner about my condition?
Will vulvodynia affect my ability to have children?
What can I do for support?
Can vulvodynia go away on its own?
WebMD Medical Reference
SOURCES: National Vulvodynia Association:
"Fact Sheet," "What Is Vulvodynia?" "What Causes Vulvodynia?" "Self-Help Tips
for Vulvar Skin Care," "Treatment." The American College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologists: "Vulvodynia." American
Academy of Family Physicians: "What Is Vulvodynia?" Office of Research on
Women's Health: "Vulvodynia."
Reviewed by Jaswant S. Chaddha, MD, FACS, FACOG on September 11, 2007
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