Vulvodynia has been classified into the following subtypes:
Generalized (or dysesthetic) Vulvodynia
Generalized Vulvodynia symptoms may be diffuse or in different areas at different times. Pain may be present in the labia majora, labia minora, and/or the vestibule. (see vulvar anatomy) Some women experience pain in the clitoris, mons pubis, perineum and/or the inner thighs. The pain may be constant or intermittent. Symptoms are not necessarily caused by touch or pressure to the vulva, i.e., with intercourse or bicycle riding, but these activities often exacerbate the symptoms. Professionals who specialize in this area believe vulvodynia remains underreported because of the lack of visible signs. Many of the vulvodynia cases worldwide effect women who are reluctant to talk about their symptoms because of the personal nature behind them. If you are suffering with vulvodynia, many treatment options are available to lessen the pain and discomfort of the its symptoms.
Vulvar Vestibulitis Syndrome
Women with VVS have pain only in the vestibule, and only during or after touch or pressure is applied. Burning sensations are the most common symptom and may be experienced with some or all of the following: sexual intercourse, tampon insertion, gynecologic examination, bicycle riding, and wearing tight pants.There are several other conditions that cause chronic vulvar pain and may coexist with Vulvodynia. The most common of these are listed below:
Cyclic Vulvovaginitis
Women with cyclic vulvovaginitis have recurrent burning and itching symptoms at the same stage of the menstrual cycle. Many have cyclical bouts of yeast infections and some have other causes for their symptoms.
Vulvar Dermatoses
There are many dermatologic conditions that may cause pain in the vulva. The most common include: allergic or contact dermatitis, lichen sclerosus, lichen simplex chronicus and lichen planus. These conditions may cause symptoms of itching and burning. Scratching the vulva and overusing topical medications may inflame the tissue, causing swelling and additional pain.Vulvodynia, as with most chronic pain conditions, can have a profound impact on a woman’s quality of life. It typically affects her ability to engage in sexual activity and may interfere with daily functioning, e.g., sitting at a desk, engaging in physical exercise, and participating in social activities. These limitations can negatively affect self-image and lead to depression.
The National Vulvodynia Association (NVA), NVA Online, November 5th, 2007, http://www.nva.org/about_vulvodynia/what_is_vulvodynia.html, (June 5th,2008)
I was finally diagnosed with an auto-immune disease that is very hard to detect. I spent tens of thousands of dollars visiting doctors across the country trying to find out what was wrong with me. I spent numerous days feeling as though a truck had hit me and went to more gynecologists than a woman who has had 10 kids! I spent one day in particular at O’Hare airport with a sharp stabbing pain in my abdomen. I had a long delay and there was no place to lie down so I ended up buying an airport lounge membership for $450.00 to the Admirals Club so that I would have a place to rest! Also, there were days (immediately before I was diagnosed) when I couldn't’t get out of my bed. If you are suffering from chronic stomach pains don't dismiss it as stress or IBS. It is probably more serious than that. Also, if you are having painful intercourse read my story.... the answer is very simple and you don't need to see every gynecologist in town. If you wait too long to find out what is wrong you will suffer both physically and emotionally. Not to mention your relationship with your spouse or loved one will be compromised and you risk losing them. For the women who are not in relationships you will avoid having them because of this problem.
I will tell you my story, what doctors to see and who not to see, and help you pinpoint what is wrong with you. I will mention conditions and diseases to get tested for and save you years of agony. You can avoid spending years on the internet searching for the best products and doctors…. I will tell you what is best for everyone and who to consult with so that you can get the best supplements for whatever health problem you are encountering. I can’t begin to tell you how many bad doctors I saw and how much bad advice I got. It was devastating to have these symptoms for so long. What I thought was a fatal disease turned out to be something easily curable. Basically, I did 8 years of my own research to diagnose myself. If you want to feel better within 2 weeks read my story. I guarantee I can help you, I am pain free now....