Characteristics of women with vulvar pain disorders: responses to a Web-based survey

Abstract

This article presents data contributed by 428 highly educated, internet-savvy women who frequented various vulvar pain discussion lists. The age range was in the reproductive years and older and over 90% were Caucasians. No country of origin was given. They had a number of distressing symptoms, including vulvar pain at rest and with contact, burning, itching, redness, and inflammation. Most felt that they had either vulvar vestibulitis, vulvodynia, or both, although they had other vulvar conditions as well. Many felt that yeast infections, stress, antibiotics, infections, and chemicals played a contributing role. There were a number of comorbidities, including irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and interstitial cystitis. Sexual abuse was not a major issue. The vulvar pain destroyed or altered then sex lives, lowered their self-esteem, and affected their relationships. Often, they relied upon understanding partners, support groups, and hobbies but not the medical profession for comfort.