It is a subtype of vulvodynia, a term referring to chronic pain in the vulvar area without a clear cause.
Vestibulitis can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, including sexual intercourse and other common activities.
The pain experienced by women with vestibulodynia is very individual. The main issue lies in hypersensitivity to light touch in the vestibule area, usually during sexual intercourse or when inserting tampons. The intensity of the pain varies. Some women feel pain but can have intercourse, while others experience painful stinging, cutting, and burning from any pressure on the vestibule area, including wearing tight clothing or even light touch. Itching is usually not a symptom of vestibulitis.
Vulvar vestibulitis is not infectious, does not spread to other parts of the body, and cannot be transmitted to a partner.
The triggers of vulvar vestibulitis are still under investigation, and no universal factor causing this condition has been proven. Several factors likely contribute to the occurrence of the disease.
For addressing the issues, it is important to distinguish between acute vulvar vestibulitis, which is usually due to vaginal inflammation, and chronic vulvar vestibulitis, where symptoms are present for more than three months. Other factors that may contribute to the development of this condition include:
Diagnosing vulvar vestibulitis can be challenging because the symptoms may be similar to vaginal infections or dermatological problems. For a woman with such difficulties, the situation can be frustrating not only due to the reduced quality of life but also because she has to visit various specialists to establish a diagnosis – from a gynecologist, through a general practitioner to a therapist.
Determining the correct diagnosis of vulvar vestibulitis is complicated by the fact that there are many different causes of vulvar pain. First, it is necessary to look for the presence of vaginal inflammation – specifically complicated yeast infections can cause pain, sensitivity, and cutting sensations, similar to vulvar vestibulitis itself. Issues may also be a symptom of vaginal atrophy. If a yeast infection is detected in a woman, its treatment is usually initiated first, and subsequently, another examination is scheduled to see if the treatment was successful. If the yeast infection is cured and the woman still complains of persistent pain in the vulvar area, then it can be assumed that it is vulvar vestibulitis.
Another symptom of vulvar vestibulitis can be more or less visible red areas in sensitive spots. However, redness does not occur in all cases.
Since there is no obvious cause for the symptoms, the treatment is also complex. Doctors approach the difficulties differently, and treatment is often multidisciplinary. Below are some methods used:
Lifestyle changes can play a key role in managing symptoms. It is important to pay attention to the occurrence of accompanying yeast infections, especially to try to prevent their onset. When symptoms appear, start treating the infection and do not wait for the symptoms to resolve on their own. Over-the-counter products such as GYNELLA Silver caps vaginal suppositories can help. They are easy to insert into the vagina and contain antimicrobial silver, which helps fight yeast, viral, and bacterial infections. If you suffer from frequent infections, we recommend trying our solution for recurring infections.
Use only gentle laundry detergents and avoid scented pads and tampons, which can irritate and dry out the area. Non-bleached toilet paper is also suitable. Proper intimate hygiene is important. Ideally, wash with gentle intimate soap no more than 1-2 times a day. Excessive care can worsen the symptoms.
Wear loose, breathable clothing and cotton underwear. And because psychology plays a significant role, practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to reduce stress.
What are the complications of vestibulodynia?
Chronic pain caused by vestibulodynia can be extremely uncomfortable and disruptive to life. The condition can hinder exercise and other physical activities and even interfere with sitting for long periods. Vestibulodynia can also lead to sexual dysfunction.
What is the prognosis for someone with vestibulodynia?
Vestibulodynia often improves with treatment over time, but pain can recur. It is important to follow medical recommendations to prevent and minimize symptoms.
Can sexually transmitted diseases cause vestibulodynia?
No. There is no known link between vestibulodynia and sexually transmitted diseases. However, some sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, cause similar symptoms, such as pain and burning.
