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Updated: Apr 25, 2026

Demonstration of Cutaneous Allodynia in Association with Chronic Pelvic Pain
Published on: June 23, 2009
Vulvodynia
Mitul Shah1, Susan Hoffstetter1
1Department of Obstetrics Gynecology & Women's Health, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 6420 Clayton Road, St Louis, MO 63117, USA.
Abstract:
Vulvar pain and discomfort (vulvodynia) are common conditions that can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life. Vulvodynia is a difficult condition to evaluate and treat. This article gives the primary gynecologist a basic framework with which to identify, diagnose, and begin treatment for these patients and refer if necessary. Initial evaluation and physical examination are discussed in detail. Treatments ranging from self-management strategies to nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic therapies will be explored. Because vulvodynia is a chronic pain disorder, diagnosis is the key to beginning treatment and support for this patient population.
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