GYNAECOLOGY · CONDITION GUIDE
Vulvodynia
A chronic condition characterised by persistent vulvar pain, burning, or discomfort without an identifiable cause — significantly impacting quality of life, sexual function, and daily activities.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia is a chronic pain disorder of the vulva — the external female genitalia — lasting three months or more without a clearly identifiable cause such as infection or skin disease. It is classified as generalised (affecting the entire vulva) or localised (restricted to specific areas such as the vestibule — called vestibulodynia or vulvar vestibulitis). The pain is described as burning, stinging, rawness, or aching. It affects women of all ages and can severely impact sexual health and well-being. Dr. Ashwani Narla offers comprehensive, non-surgical vulvodynia management at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
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Nerve hypersensitivity or neuropathic changes in vulvar sensory nerves
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History of recurrent vulvovaginal infections or persistent inflammation
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Hormonal factors including low oestrogen levels causing vulvar tissue changes
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Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction contributing to heightened pain sensitivity
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Genetic predisposition affecting inflammatory response in vulvar tissue
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Psychological factors including anxiety and past trauma amplifying pain perception
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Chronic vulvar pain disorder without an identifiable underlying cause
Multi-modal — combined medical, physiotherapy, and psychological care
Clinical assessment with cotton swab test; exclusion of infection and skin disease
Best outcomes with combined medical, physiotherapy, and psychological support
Improvement is gradual, developing over weeks to months with consistent therapy
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Targeted physiotherapy to release pelvic floor muscle tension and reduce pain, especially in provoked vulvodynia.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Ashwani Narla conducts a detailed pain history, cotton swab test, and vulvar examination to map pain distribution and exclude treatable causes.
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Treatment Planning
A multi-modal plan including topical therapies, pelvic floor physiotherapy, psychological support, and dietary modifications is personalised for each patient.
- 3
Conservative Treatment
Topical medications, nerve-pain modulators, pelvic floor physiotherapy, and lifestyle measures are combined and adjusted to the patient's response.
- 4
Follow-up
Gradual resumption of sexual activity is guided with ongoing psychological and medical support.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
TreatmentOptions
Topical Therapies
Local anaesthetic gels, oestrogen creams, or other topical agents to reduce vulvar pain and sensitivity.
Oral Nerve-Pain Medications
Medicines that calm overactive sensory nerves to reduce chronic pain signals.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Targeted physiotherapy to release pelvic floor muscle tension and reduce pain, especially in provoked vulvodynia.
Psychological Support & Counselling
Cognitive and supportive therapy to manage the anxiety, distress, and sexual impact of chronic pain.
Lifestyle & Dietary Modifications
Vulvar-care measures, clothing and hygiene advice, and dietary changes to reduce irritation and flare-ups.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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