Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a medical condition that is commonly unreported by many women who experience it. The condition is noted by symptoms that result in vaginal pain around the areas around the vaginal opening. Many women note burning and itching sensations along with rawness and throbbing that can last for months or years. The irritations and pain can be continuous or intermitent. In most cases, the feelings will come on very suddenly and vanish just as suddenly. The tissue around the area may appear to be inflammed or even swollen. This will cause intercourse to be very unpleasant.

Image via Wikipedia

Vulvodynia has been attributed to a variety of causes. These causes include injury and nerve damage to the area around the vulva, chronic vaginal infections, allergies, muscle spasms, and estrogen level fluctuations as a result of female menapause. The condition is not normally a sign of cancer in most situations.

Women do not normally report the signs of the condition, but they should. As many as one in six women experience vulvodynia. The condition is actually common and nothing to be ashamed of. There are a variety of medications available to treat the symptoms associated with the condition. The medications include amitriptyline, desipramine (Norpramin), and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor). Also, there are options for physical therapy treatments and topical creams to relieve the pain associated with vulvodynia. 

Image via Wikipedia