What causes vulvodynia?
Sep 06, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In most cases, vulvodynia is caused by hormonal changes, mechanical irritation, vestibulitis, bacterial vaginosis, herpes virus infection, etc. Fluctuations in hormone levels—particularly estrogen and progesterone—during physiological processes such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can affect the health of vaginal and vulvar tissues, leading to vulvar pain.
In general, vulvar pain may be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, mechanical irritation, vulvar vestibulitis, bacterial vaginosis, and herpes virus infection. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Hormonal Changes
During physiological processes such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, fluctuations in hormone levels—especially estrogen and progesterone—can affect the health of vaginal and vulvar tissues, leading to vulvar pain. It is important to maintain good personal hygiene and avoid using harsh or irritating cleansing products.
2. Mechanical Irritation
Activities such as sexual intercourse or cycling may cause physical irritation to the vulvar area, resulting in local inflammatory responses and pain. Attention should be paid to personal hygiene, keeping the vulvar area dry and clean, and avoiding tight-fitting pants.
3. Vulvar Vestibulitis
Vulvar vestibulitis is a chronic pain syndrome associated with nerve abnormalities, immune responses, and local inflammation, primarily causing pain in the vulvar vestibule. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination, painful urination, and post-urination dribbling. Treatment should be conducted under medical supervision using medications such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream, compound carrageenan cream, fluocinonide acetate cream, or compound undecenoic acid zinc/triamcinolone acetonide ointment.
4. Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is an endogenous mixed infection caused by imbalance of the normal vaginal flora, characterized by a decrease in lactobacilli and an overgrowth of Gardnerella and other anaerobic bacteria. An excessive amount of harmful bacteria can disrupt the vaginal pH balance, triggering inflammation and pain. Common accompanying symptoms include vulvar itching, vaginal burning sensation, or dyspareunia. Treatment typically involves medications prescribed by a doctor, such as ornidazole dispersible tablets, fluconazole oral solution, or levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules.
5. Herpes Virus Infection
Herpes virus infection can cause pain in the vulvar region, often accompanied by fever and lymphadenopathy. Under medical guidance, antiviral medications such as famciclovir tablets, valacyclovir hydrochloride tablets, or acyclovir cream may be used for treatment.
It is advisable to develop good hygiene habits and engage in appropriate physical exercise regularly to promote overall health.
