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)
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