A Woman's Guide to Vulvar Vestibulitis Syndrome (VVS)

Health & Medical Blog

If you have been diagnosed with vulvar vestibulitis syndrome (VVS), then you can greatly reduce your chronic pain by learning more about your condition. Since VVS can greatly interfere with your activities of everyday living, it is very important to understand its root cause and how to eliminate it.

Symptoms of VVS

The main symptoms of VVS are pain and swelling in the vaginal vestibule. The vaginal vestibule is located at the entrance to the vagina. This pain can be felt during both sexual intercourse and throughout the day.

The vaginal vestibule area will be red when you are examined by your gynecologist. The redness indicates irritation of the delicate tissues.

Causes of VVS

VVS is caused by a neurological inflammation cycle. VVS typically starts from a basic vaginal infection. The vagina becomes swollen and this causes pain. The pain, in turn, then causes more swelling in the area. This cycle continues until your doctor is able to stop it once and for all.

Treatment of VVS

The good news about VVS is that it is treatable. The most common treatment options for VVS are:

• topical anesthetics: Topical anesthetic gels can be prescribed by your gynecologist. These gels can be applied to any irritated areas of the vagina. The gel works by numbing the area for an hour or two. Once it wears off, you will need to reapply it. Typically, this type of anesthetic is used prior to sexual contact.
• estrogen replacement medication: Your doctor may also prescribe you an estrogen replacement medication for your VVS. The estrogen will help to keep a better hormonal balance in your vaginal tissues. This helps to alleviate pain and swelling.
• physical therapy: In addition, your physician my prescribe a round of physical therapy for you. The physical therapist can instruct you on how to perform pelvic floor muscles.

Prevention of VVS

While there is no way to prevent VVS from occurring, you can help to lessen your symptoms by lowering your intake of acidic foods and drinks. You should not consume items such as coffee, tomato products, eggs and meat.Acidic foods tend to make neurological pain more intense.

By learning as much as you can about vulvar vestibulitis syndrome, you will be able to work with your doctor to eliminate your painful symptoms. If you do not see improvement after starting treatment, make sure that you return to the doctor for additional help.

21 January 2015