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The vulvodynia guideline.
Hope K Haefner1, Michael E Collins, Gordon D Davis
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Hospitals, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. haefner@umich.edu
Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease
|May 5, 2005
Summary
Vulvodynia, a condition of vulvar discomfort, has been redefined and classified. While many treatments exist, few have undergone rigorous testing, necessitating expert-guided management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Dermatology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Vulvodynia is characterized by vulvar discomfort without clear anatomical or neurological causes.
- Recent redefinition by the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD) clarifies diagnostic criteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on vulvodynia.
- To present expert opinion on the diagnosis and management of vulvodynia.
Main Methods:
- Literature review by a panel of experts.
- Development of new definitions and classification for vulvar pain conditions.
- Compilation of treatment options based on expert consensus.
Main Results:
- Vulvodynia is defined as vulvar discomfort without gross findings, classified by pain distribution (generalized/localized) and provocation (provoked/unprovoked/both).
- Treatment modalities include vulvar care, topical and oral medications, injectables, physical therapy, dietary changes, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and surgery.
- No single treatment is universally superior for all patients.
Conclusions:
- Vulvodynia presents diverse treatment options, but robust evidence from controlled trials is limited.
- Guidelines are provided, based primarily on expert opinion, to aid clinicians and patients in managing vulvodynia.