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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Vulvodynia Be Treated?

Hi. I think I might have Vulvodynia. I’ve struggled with it for a long time but upon finally really researching it.. I think i 100% have it. The pain is really bad sometimes. I read online that anti-depressants are sometimes used to help this. I was on anti-depressants for awhile for actual depression but I stopped taking them because my doctor and I wanted to look at other options.. now looking at it- that’s when the pain really started coming up again. I know I can just talk to my doctor about this but I really want to get answers FAST becuase I just got a new job that’s really important to me and I can’t have this pain effect my life anymore than it has. The pain ruins me. I don’t know if I should go to the hospital OR if I should just start taking the anti-depressants again?? The procedure from my understanding to diagnosis this is a) blood work b) ultra sound c) physical examination. I know for an ultrasound I need to fast which I haven’t but I’m still wondering if going to the hospital would be a good idea? Or maybe just going back on the anti-depressants is a quick solution? I’ll do anything in the world to make this stop so I can do my best to have a successful life again.
Thu, 15 Mar 2018
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

As per your clinical history is concerned, please follow like this:

1) Do a clinical evaluation by your Doctor [Gyn] and do [Cotton swab test] to confirm it and if you have already confirmed by your Doctor then follow as below.

2) Discuss with your Doctor about antidepressant and if itching present then an antihistamine can be reconsidered and [Lidocaine cream during sexual intercourse].

3) Discuss with your physio for specific exercise plan for pelvic floor muscles.

Do follow lifestyle modifications like this:

1) Try cold compresses. Cold compresses placed directly on your external genital area may help lessen pain and itching. Soak in a sitz bath three times a day.

2) Try to avoid tight-fitting underwear. Tight clothing restricts airflow to your genital area, often leading to increased temperature and moisture that can cause irritation. Wear white, cotton underwear to increase ventilation and dryness.

3) Avoid hot tubs. Spending time in hot water may lead to discomfort and itching.

4) Try to avoid activities that put pressure on your vulvae, such as biking or horseback riding.

5) Wash gently. Scrubbing the affected area harshly or washing too often can increase irritation. Instead, use plain water to gently clean your vulva with your hand and pat the area dry. After bathing, apply a preservative-free emollient, such as plain petroleum jelly, to create a protective barrier, use lubricants. If you're sexually active, apply a lubricant before engaging in sexual intercourse.

6) Try an antihistamine at bedtime. This may help reduce itching and help you rest better.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Uday Nath Sahoo
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How Can Vulvodynia Be Treated?

Hello, As per your clinical history is concerned, please follow like this: 1) Do a clinical evaluation by your Doctor [Gyn] and do [Cotton swab test] to confirm it and if you have already confirmed by your Doctor then follow as below. 2) Discuss with your Doctor about antidepressant and if itching present then an antihistamine can be reconsidered and [Lidocaine cream during sexual intercourse]. 3) Discuss with your physio for specific exercise plan for pelvic floor muscles. Do follow lifestyle modifications like this: 1) Try cold compresses. Cold compresses placed directly on your external genital area may help lessen pain and itching. Soak in a sitz bath three times a day. 2) Try to avoid tight-fitting underwear. Tight clothing restricts airflow to your genital area, often leading to increased temperature and moisture that can cause irritation. Wear white, cotton underwear to increase ventilation and dryness. 3) Avoid hot tubs. Spending time in hot water may lead to discomfort and itching. 4) Try to avoid activities that put pressure on your vulvae, such as biking or horseback riding. 5) Wash gently. Scrubbing the affected area harshly or washing too often can increase irritation. Instead, use plain water to gently clean your vulva with your hand and pat the area dry. After bathing, apply a preservative-free emollient, such as plain petroleum jelly, to create a protective barrier, use lubricants. If you re sexually active, apply a lubricant before engaging in sexual intercourse. 6) Try an antihistamine at bedtime. This may help reduce itching and help you rest better. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Uday Nath Sahoo