Vulvodynia is a troubling vaginal disorder that affects many women, but unfortunately, it often takes them several years to get a correct diagnosis because it’s a health issue that is underserved. Vulvodynia refers to chronic pain in the vulva that did not have an identifiable cause for over 100 years until Dr. Fowler at Fowler Gyn International discovered it. But what are the symptoms of vulvodynia, and how is it treated?
What Are The Symptoms Of Vulvodynia?
Pain in the vulva (the external part of the female genitals) is the predominant symptom of vulvodynia. The pain may affect only one area of the vulva or multiple areas, and the intensity varies. Vulvodynia pain is often so debilitating that it affects a woman’s ability to sit and walk comfortably, and makes sexual intercourse painful if not impossible. The quality of pain varies from burning to rawness to stinging.
Treating Vulvodynia
Women with vulvodynia typically have an altered vaginal microflora pattern. Treating the condition successfully therefore involves restoring balance to the vaginal milieu.
Vulvovaginal specialist Dr. R. Stuart Fowler of Fowler GYN International (FGI) developed the advanced Vaginal Fluid Analysis (VFA) test to help identify abnormal vaginal microflora patterns. The VFA test provides a quantitative analysis of the vaginal constituents to determine if an altered vaginal microflora pattern is present.
Women with an altered vaginal microflora pattern are then given a customized treatment protocol designed to get the microflora back to normal. This regimen typically involves a combination of vaginal medication and skin care products. Most patients notice a significant improvement in symptoms after being on the treatment protocol for about 4 months. If you are experiencing pain in the vulva with no obvious cause identified by your gynecologist, contact Fowler GYN International at fowlergyninternational.com/contact-us, or by calling (480) 420-4001. FGI is located in Phoenix, AZ.