Vulvar pain (vulvodynia or vaginismus)

Overview

Infections and skin problems should be ruled out first.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pain around the vagina or painful sex
• Burning or pain at the vulva or vaginal opening
• Pain during sex

Less common

• Burning
• Pain with tampons

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerve and muscle changes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician examines gently.

Questions you may be asked

• When pain happens

The exam

Cotton swab test.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Swabs:

Treatment

Gentle care.

Self-care

• Use mild soap and cotton underwear
• Use lubricant
• Try pelvic floor physical therapy

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Vulvar pain (vulvodynia or vaginismus)