Vulvar Vestibulitis
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What is Vulvar Vestibulitis?

Vulvar Vestibulitis is a condition which causes redness and pain of the vestibule. Vestibulitis is an inflammation of the vulvovaginal skin and the mucous secreting glands found in and around the vulva. The mucous secreting glands are called the lesser vestibular glands.  

Vulvar Vestibulitis may include all the area around the opening of the vagina but is normally seen in the lower part of the vaginal opening.

Vulvar Vestibulitis occurs in women of all ages. It can occur in women who are sexually active and also in women who have never been sexually active.  

Many women with this problem have suffered physically and emotionally for months or years, have seen a number of physicians, and have tried many unsuccessful treatments in search of relief.  

What are the signs and symptoms of Vulvar Vestibulitis?

*  Severe pain with pressure (for example: biking, exercise, tight fitting clothes ).

*  Vaginal entry such as tampon use or intercourse. 

*  Burning, stinging, irritation, or raw sensation within the vestibular area.

* Vestibular redness 

*  The urge to urinate frequently or suddenly.   


How is Vulvar Vestibulitis diagnosed?

Your doctor or health care provider will examine the vulva and vestibule to identify the common skin changes seen with vulvar vestibulitis. Pain is usually felt if the vestibule area is touched with a cotton tipped applicator. A sample of your vaginal discharge is collected and tested to rule out infection.

What causes Vulvar Vestibulitis? 

The exact cause is unknown, but many studies are being conducted to determine the cause of Vulvar Vestibulitis.  

The following factors have been associated with Vulvar Vestibulitis:

*  HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)
*  Chronic Yeast Infections
*  Chronic bacterial infections 
*  Chronic changes of pH (acid-base balance in the vagina)
*  Chronic use of chemicals/irritants such as detergents, soaps, spermicides or lubricants.


What is the treatment for Vulvar Vestibulitis?  

Treatment may include any of the following:  

*  Follow the Guidelines for Vulvar Skin Care
*  Steroid Ointments 

How it is used: A thin layer is applied to the vulvovaginal areas. 

How it Works: Decreases redness, irritation, and burning. Caution: Use only as prescribed by your doctor. Overuse may result in thinning of the skin which will make your problem worse rather than helping it.

*  Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) may be used in some cases as determined by the severity of the symptoms you have. TCA is a chemical that is used to destroy small areas of the irritated skin allowing new healthy skin to grow in its place. 

*  Interferon Injections are used to increase your body's response to infection.

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Helpful treatment hints for Vulvar Vestibulitis:

*  Vitamin A and D Ointment  How it is used: Apply to the areas of discomfort.
How it Works: Protects the skin, decreases irritation, heals, and soothes.

*  Lidocaine Gel may be prescribed after initial treatment. 

How it is used: Apply lidocaine gel to the vulvovaginal areas of discomfort. 

How it Works: Numbs areas before intercourse.

Caution: After applying, wait until area becomes less sensitive before intercourse. Burning may occur for a short time ( 5 to 10 mins.) after the gel is applied.

*  Witch Hazel Pads:  

How it is used: Apply to the vulvovaginal areas of discomfort. 

How it Works: Decreases burning and irritation after intercourse and urinating.

*  Cleansing Bottle - Pour plain luke-warm water over the vulva after urinating to remove urine from irritated area.  

 

 
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