Vulvodynia

J Sex Med. 2008 Jan;5(1):5-14; quiz 15. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2007.00679.x.

Abstract

Introduction: Vulvodynia is increasingly recognized as a cause of sexual pain. Aim. The goal of this Continuing Medical Education article was to provide a comprehensive review of vulvodynia including terminology, possible etiologies, and offer treatment options.

Methods: A Medline search was conducted using several terms related to and including the terms vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, and pudendal neuralgia.

Results: A thorough review of vulvodynia.

Conclusion: Vulvodynia most likely represents several disorders without an identifiable cause in many cases. The management of these patients requires a sensitive provider who can coordinate a multidisciplinary approach to their care. Despite the lack of large-scale, placebo-controlled trials, several new treatment options exist.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dyspareunia / etiology
  • Dyspareunia / therapy
  • Female
  • Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Humans
  • Pain Measurement / methods
  • Quality of Life
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Vulva / innervation
  • Vulvar Diseases / classification
  • Vulvar Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Vulvar Diseases / therapy*
  • Vulvovaginitis / classification
  • Vulvovaginitis / diagnosis*
  • Vulvovaginitis / therapy*