Vulvodynia & Vulvar Pain
Women who struggle with chronic vulvar pain know that it disrupts daily life, INHIBITS intimacy, and REDUCES well-being.
Normal aspects of life such as wearing certain clothes, being intimately touched, or feeling free can’t be taken for granted. If this is you, you are not alone.
Even though people don’t talk about it, research suggests that up to 16% of women in the U.S. will suffer from Vulvodynia at some point in their lives. Many women are often frustrated by limited treatment options and BELIEVE THEY MUST ENDURE ongoing pain and discomfort.
In my Chicago acupuncture practice, I specialize in helping women find lasting relief through Chinese Medicine treatments, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and personalized lifestyle guidance.
What Is Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia is chronic vulvar pain without an identifiable cause that lasts for at least three months.
Vulvodynia’s location, intensity, and frequency of pain can be different for each person. Some women feel pain in just one part of the vulva, while others have pain in several areas.
The most common symptoms are burning, stinging, rawness, sharp or throbbing sensations which occur without an identifiable cause, such as infection or skin disorder.
Symptoms can be constant or intermittent, but they have a severe impact on activities like sitting, sexual intercourse, and many aspects of everyday life.
Pelvic floor dysfunction frequently accompanies vulvodynia. When pelvic floor muscles become overly tight or tense, they restrict blood flow and cause muscle spasms, leading to burning, rawness, and throbbing sensations. This dysfunction may also cause urinary issues, constipation, and pain in the lower back or hips.
Types of Vulvodynia
- Localized vulvodynia (vestibulodynia): Pain is confined to one area of the vulva and is usually provoked by touch or pressure. This Provoked Localized Vulvodynia (PLV) is the most common form, affecting up to 16% of women and significantly reducing their quality of life. Conventional treatments often involve multiple approaches, but tend to offer only modest relief. If the pain is in the vestibule, the tissue surrounding the vaginal opening, it is called vestibulodynia.
- Generalized vulvodynia: Diffuse, spontaneous pain across the vulva and may be constant or intermittent.
The Good News – Chinese Medicine Can Help!
Chinese Medicine offers a comprehensive, natural approach to managing vulvodynia and pelvic floor dysfunction by addressing the root imbalances in the body.
My treatment approach includes:
- Acupuncture
- Chinese Herbal Remedies
- Lifestyle & Dietary Guidance
With over 23 years of experience in Chinese Medicine, I have helped many women find relief from vulvodynia, pelvic floor dysfunction, and other vulvar pain conditions.
Important: There is no quick fix for vulvodynia. Lasting relief often requires patience, and a combination of therapies that we tailor to meet your unique needs.
If you are tired of living with vulvar pain and ready to explore a natural, holistic approach, I invite you to schedule a consultation.
Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan aimed at reducing your pain, improving your pelvic health, and enhancing your quality of life.
Your comfort and well-being are my priority.