Let's talk about something really important called vulvodynia. Imagine feeling a burning or stinging pain down there, but not knowing why. That's what vulvodynia feels like. It's like your vulva, the outer part of your private area, is telling you something's wrong, but it's hard to figure out what. It affects a lot of women, and the tricky part? Sometimes even doctors find it hard to understand.
This is a summary of key points to know based on my interview with Dr. Jill Krapf, a specialist in treating vulvar skin conditions
What Causes Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia can happen for different reasons. It's a puzzle that to solve together with your doctor. Here are the main pieces:
Hormones: Sometimes, our body's natural chemicals get a little out of balance. For women, hormones like estrogen and testosterone are super important, and if they're low, it might cause pain.
Muscles: The muscles in your pelvic floor (the area around your pelvis) might be too tight or in a knot, causing discomfort.
Nerves: Sometimes, the nerves in your pelvis can get irritated, sending pain signals when they shouldn't.
Inflammation: This is when parts of your body get swollen and sore, like when you have a rash, but it can happen inside your body too.
Solutions for Vulvodynia
The good news is, there are ways to help manage vulvodynia, once we figure out what's causing it. Here's how we can tackle each cause:
For Hormone Issues: Using creams or medicines that give your body the hormones it's missing might help.
For Muscle Problems: Physical therapy designed for the pelvic floor can teach your muscles to relax and not be so tight.
For Nerve Pain: There are special treatments and sometimes medicines that can calm down irritated nerves.
For Inflammation: If inflammation is the problem, certain creams or treatments can reduce swelling and pain.
How Women Can Advocate for Themselves
Finding answers can be tough, but remember, you're not alone. Here's how you can stand up for your health:
Learn about your body: Understanding how your body works helps you explain what's wrong more clearly to doctors.
Keep a symptom diary: Write down when you feel pain, what it feels like, and anything that makes it better or worse.
Ask questions: If something's not clear, or if a treatment isn't working, don't be shy to ask your doctor why.
Find a specialist: Sometimes, you need a doctor who knows a lot about vulvodynia. Don't give up if the first doctor doesn't have the answers.
Things to Monitor and Share with Your Doctor
Keeping track of certain things can help your doctor understand your pain better. Here's a list of what to note:
When the pain happens: Is it during your period, after eating certain foods, or after exercise?
Where the pain is: Is it on the outside, near the entrance, or deeper inside?
What kind of pain it is: Is it a burning, stabbing, or itching feeling?
What makes it better or worse: Does resting help? Does wearing certain clothes make it worse?
By sharing this information with your doctor, you're giving them clues that can help solve the puzzle of your pain.
Wrapping Up
Vulvodynia might feel like a tough battle, but remember, you're the expert on your body. With the right knowledge and support, you can find the answers and get the help you need.
Resources
Learn about Dr Jill Krapf’s practice: The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders, which has offices in New York City, Tampa, and Washington, DC
Check out all of Fempower Health’s resources on Pelvic Health and Sexual Health.
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Disclaimer
The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor. Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.