Vulvodynia (chronic vulval pain)
Also known as: vulvodynia, chronic vulval pain, burning vulva
Vulvodynia is chronic pain or burning around the vaginal opening without an obvious cause — it affects sitting, sex and daily comfort. Multidisciplinary care (gynaecology, pelvic-floor physiotherapy, pain management) is the core. Chinese medicine treats liver constraint with damp-heat, heart-spleen deficiency and yin-deficiency patterns for the pain and sensitivity.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Specialist clinics (gynaecology, pain, pelvic-floor) all contribute — ask for referral.
- •Pelvic-floor physiotherapy is a proven component.
- •Cotton underwear; avoid perfumed products.
- •Support groups reduce the isolation this condition causes.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Exclude infection and skin disease before pattern-based treatment.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review at 6 weeks: pain scores, function, sleep. Coordinate with the multidisciplinary plan.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- NHS · 2024
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- National Library of Medicine · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.
