What is vestibulodynia and how to treat it?

VESTIBULODYNIA: HOW TO DEFINE IT?

Vestibulodynia, also known as vulvar vestibulitis, is a specific form of vulvodynia . As a reminder, vulvodynia is the term used to define chronic pain in the vulva.

Vestibulodynia is characterized by chronic vulvar pain and increased sensitivity specifically localized to the vestibule , at the entrance to the vagina.

This condition causes pain and burning sensations during vaginal penetration, sexual intercourse, tampon insertion, or even light pressure on the vulvar area.

SYMPTOMS OF THIS CONDITION

Symptoms of vestibulodynia can vary from woman to woman, but they commonly include:

1. Severe pain or discomfort during vaginal penetration.
2. Burning or tingling sensation in the vulvar area.
3. Pain when touched or pressed in the vestibular area.
4. Discomfort during sexual activities, which can lead to problems in sex life and relationship difficulties.
5. Persistent irritation or pain even outside of sexual intercourse.

HOW IS VESTIBULODYNIA CAUSED?

The pain is most often triggered by contact, and is called provoked vestibulodynia. Sometimes there may also be redness present in the painful area, but this redness does not explain the pain.

The exact cause of vestibulodynia is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development, including muscle problems, infections, past trauma, hormonal imbalances, or abnormal immune responses. Some women may also have a genetic predisposition to this condition.

HOW TO TREAT IT?

Vestibulodynia is usually diagnosed by a gynecologist or sexual health specialist after ruling out other possible causes of pelvic pain . Treatment options vary depending on the severity of symptoms and underlying factors.

To best treat vestibulodynia, it is important to implement a multidimensional approach : medication, physical, and psychological. Possible treatments may include:

1. Physical therapy : Pelvic floor exercises and massage of the area can help release tight or spasmodic muscles around the vulvar vestibule.
2. Creams or ointments : Some women may benefit from the application of local anesthetic creams or ointments to reduce pain.
3. Behavioral therapy : Therapy and psychological support can help manage pain and reduce anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has proven effective for vestibulodynia. The goal of therapy is to help develop coping mechanisms to deal with pain. Maladaptive beliefs about pain and their influence on behavior are targeted. Once identified, they are challenged and replaced with more appropriate thoughts for the healing process.
4. Hormone therapy : In some cases, hormone therapy may be recommended to correct hormonal imbalances .
5. Medications : A doctor may prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation , muscle relaxants, or even tricyclic antidepressants to treat anxiety caused by pain and neuropathic pain.
6. Biofeedback : Also known as biological feedback, biofeedback is a technique that allows the patient to become aware of how certain parts of their body function. Used in perineal rehabilitation, biofeedback helps the patient become aware of their perineum so they can strengthen it by strengthening it through exercises. This technique helps to become aware of the pelvic muscles and to relax them.
7. Lubricant : A lubricant, preferably water-based and with a good composition, can help reduce pain during intercourse. However, care must be taken to ensure that the products do not contain allergenic or irritating ingredients.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to each situation. Vestibulodynia can have a significant impact on women's quality of life, sex life, and psychological state: They may feel anxiety, guilt, shame, and experience a significant drop in libido.

Proper care can help improve quality of life and reduce painful symptoms . To discuss your pain, don't hesitate to contact a specialist dermatologist, a midwife, a gynecologist, or a sexologist. All of these specialists will be able to understand your pain , monitor your treatment, and evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed solutions over time.

FAQ:

What is vulvodynia ?

Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort in the vulva without a clearly identified cause, which can widely affect the external genital area of women. The main difference between vulvodynia and vestibulodynia lies in their location and pain triggers: vulvodynia can be more generalized, while vestibulodynia is localized and linked to a specific stimulus.

Who treats vulvodynia?

Just as with vestibulodynia, you should not hesitate to consult a specialist dermatologist, a midwife, a gynecologist, or a sexologist. All of these professionals will be able to take your pain into account, supervise your treatment, and assess the sustainability of the proposed solutions over time.