Vulvodynia is a burning, stinging but often unexplained pain affecting the skin around the vagina, or the vulva.

Although the condition is persistent and without an obvious cause, there are steps which can be taken to help relieve the discomfort.

Vulvodynia that is always present or comes on without a trigger is called unprovoked vulvodynia. If the pain starts when the vulva is touched, such as during sex or when changing a tampon, doctors call this provoked vulvodynia.

Vulvodynia cannot be transmitted during sex and is not a sign of a more serious condition, such as cancer.

Vestibulodynia is a related condition where pain affects the vestibule, which is the entrance to the vagina.

Types of vulvodynia

Vulvodynia affects the vulva which is the external female genital organs. This includes the labia, clitoris and vaginal opening.

The two main types of vulvodynia are:

• Generalised vulvodynia which is pain in different areas of the vulva which occurs at different times. Vulvar pain may be constant or occasional. It may or may not be prompted by touch or pressure but this may make the pain worse.
• Vestibulodynia is pain in the vestibule which is the entrance to the vagina. Often a burning sensation, this type of vulvar pain comes on during or after touch or pressure such as during sexual intercourse.

Possible causes of vulvodynia

Doctors do not know what causes vulvodynia. There is no evidence that infections, such as sexually transmitted infections, cause it.

Researchers are trying to find the causes of vulvodynia. These may include:

• Nerve injury or irritation
• Abnormal response in vulvar cells to an infection or trauma
• Genetic factors that make the vulva respond poorly to chronic inflammation
• Hypersensitivity to yeast infections
• Muscle spasms
• Allergies or irritation to chemicals or other substances
• Hormonal changes
• History of sexual abuse
• Frequent antibiotic use