Are you suffering from unexplained pain in the vaginal area that doctors have not been able to diagnose? You could have a condition known as vulvodynia. Vulvodynia is a female problem that tends to fly under the radar, because there are few specialists that truly understand it. So what is vulvodynia really?
What is vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia is a condition that causes chronic pain and burning at the opening of the vagina or on the vulva. The pain typically occurs in the absence of any specific neurological disorder. Patients often describe the pain as burning, rawness, stinging, aching, sharp, searing, or throbbing.
Vulvodynia pain is continuous in some cases but intermittent in others. In addition, the pain may be generalized, or may be confined to a specific part of the vulva and occur only when pressure is applied to the area.
Vulvodynia patients also experience other symptoms such as lesser degree of itching, discharge, and odor.
The symptoms of vulvodynia can be so intense that they interfere with normal activities. Some women find it difficult to sit for long periods or engage in physical activities such as riding a bike and engaging in intercourse.
Vulvodynia is often not correctly diagnosed, as most doctors are unsure why it develops and what causes it.
Treating vulvodynia
Effective treatment for vulvodynia must start with an accurate diagnosis. This has traditionally been done with the help of a cotton tip applicator test that identifies the areas of pain.
At Fowler GYN International (FGI), they utilize advanced diagnostic tools to precisely diagnose vulvodynia. A vaginal fluid analysis (VFA) test is done to identify the vaginal constituents. This identifies if there is an irritative component to the secretions. After patients are evaluated, a customized treatment protocol is recommended.
If you are experiencing symptoms of vulvodynia and have not been able to get the help you need, contact Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ for a consultation. You can reach them at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001.