How do you diagnose vulvodynia

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Updated visitor guidelines. You are here Home » Vulvodynia. Top of the page. Overview Is this topic for you? What is vulvodynia? The main parts of the vulva are: The clitoris. This is the small, sensitive female organ that gets aroused during sex.

The labia. These are the folds of skin that cover the vagina and the opening of the urethra. The opening of the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of your body.

What causes vulvodynia? But some things that may help cause it include: Swelling of or injury to the nerves of the vulva. Spasms or weakness of the muscles that support the organs of the pelvis. A family history of vulvodynia. What are the symptoms? Pain is the main symptom of vulvodynia. Depending on the person, the pain may: Be felt only in one spot, such as near the opening of the vagina, and only when something touches that area.

This is called localized vulvodynia. Or you may feel the pain on or around most of the vulva, even when nothing touches those areas. This is called generalized vulvodynia. Be constant or come and go for months or even years. Be mild or very bad. Be felt during and after sex. Flare up when you sit on a bicycle, put in a tampon, or wipe your vulva.

Other symptoms may include: Burning or stinging. How is vulvodynia diagnosed? If a cause for your pain is not found, you may have vulvodynia. How is it treated? If all else fails, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the tender area.

Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept. What causes vulvodynia? How is vulvodynia diagnosed? How is vulvodynia treated?

Things to remember Vulvodynia is vulvar pain which does not have a clear cause and where there are no physical signs of irritation. More Information Pelvic exam. More Information Biofeedback. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Stewart EG. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of generalized vulvodynia. Accessed May 1, Spadt SK, et al.

Treatment of vulvodynia vulvar pain of unknown cause. What is vulvodynia?. National Vulvodynia Association. Frequently asked questions.