[2013 vulvodynia update]

Provoked vestibulodynia represents the most frequent cause of dyspareunia before menopause. Vulvodynia's pain and burning sensations are related to neuropathic pain and associated to various degrees of vulvar mucosal hypersensitivity (mostly in the vestibular area), pelvic floor muscles dysfunction, a disorder of general perception of pain and/or various complex regional pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia, glossodynia, painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis)… Vaginal infections such as candidiasis and vaginosis are important trigger and risk factors. Women suffering from vulvodynia are often described as vulnerable, pessimistic, developing feelings of guilt towards their partner. They tend to be hyper vigilant to their pain and develop catastrophizing reactions (rumination, magnification and helplessness) and avoidance/escape behaviors (fear-avoidance model). Diagnosis is based on medical history, clinical examination (Q-tip test) and exclusion of vaginitis. Treatment consists of a multidisciplinary approach involving topical therapies (emollients, anesthetics, hormonotherapy if necessary), pelvic floor physiotherapy with electromyographic biofeedback, drug treatment of pain with antidepressants (amitriptyline…) or anticonvulsants (pregabaline…) and a psychosexual support.