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Is Vulvodynia a Chronic Illness?
Given that the pain of vulvodynia is can be quite overwhelming at times, it’s little wonder that women all over the world are searching the internet for solutions and advice. If you’ve found yourself reading this Vuvatech article, know that you’ve come to the right place. Vuvatech advice and products are all born of direct personal experience! You may have a lot of questions as to how you can get over vulvodynia, vaginismus or any other debilitating gynecological problems. We do our best to answer them all, which is why this article addresses the question, “Is vulvodynia a chronic illness?” Some examples of chronic illnesses are Alzheimer's disease (and other dementias), arthritis, asthma, ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). So, let’s address the question at hand… Is vulvodynia a chronic illness? Any woman who has suffered from the pain of vulvodynia will tell you that this isn’t usually a fleeting experience. Therefore, yes: vulvodynia can be considered a chronic illness. It may help to know that a chronic illness (or disease) is defined as one that is ‘persisting for a long time or constantly recurring’. A ‘chronic’ illness is generally defined by the length of time it lasts; namely, three months or more. This guideline is comes from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics. Chronic diseases won’t be prevented by vaccines and are unlikely to be cured by medication. Similarly, they don’t often disappear on their own. Although vulvodynia can go away on its own, it often doesn’t. Treating vulvodynia can mean trying out a range of different strategies and substances. Some vulvodynia treatments can be done at home, and may be successful. However, some women may need to consult experienced practitioners for assistance. As with any chronic illness, the road can be long but that does not mean there is no relief (or an end!) in sight. Why is vulvodynia difficult to treat? Vulvodynia is a complex condition with many subsets. Different women experience it in different ways, and its causes are not yet conclusively confirmed. Some women experience the pain of vulvodynia only in the labia (the folds just outside the vaginal opening); some experience their pain in the vestibule (the skin at the vaginal opening) and some feel it most in the perineum (the area between the vaginal opening and the anus). Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Others may feel pain in the entire vulvar region, which is known as generalized pain. Localized pain refers to the pain felt in one or more specific areas (e.g. the perineum or clitoris). Vulvodynia is still a chronic illness regardless of whether the symptoms are constant, or they disappear and return unpredictably. It is not always easy to tell why and when vulvodynia will flare up, but when you know about the triggers, you have a better chance of prevention. You may also be wondering whether you’ll be stuck with it forever if vulvodynia is a chronic illness. We will say that provided you make a sustained effort to find out and implement what works for you, there is likely to be a way out. Even if you find it recurs from time to time, you don’t have to worry that vulvodynia will ruin your life. As always, knowledge is power, as it leads to solutions… and we are grateful to be here to help you with both!
Learn moreIs Vulvodynia Genetic? Find Out Whether You Have a Predisposition…
Vulvodynia is the name for intense discomfort or burning pain in the vulvar area. Because the exact cause of vulvodynia is not officially confirmed, many women are left asking questions about its origin. We have often been asked, Is vulvodynia genetic? but there is no simple answer to this. Nevertheless, studies have been conducted in order to confirm this suspicion (or otherwise) and the findings are interesting. Vulvodynia could have multiple causes, and several subsets. These include cyclic vulvovaginitis, vulvar vestibulitis syndrome, essential (dysesthetic) vulvodynia and vulvar dermatoses. Vulvodynia is thought to affect around 5 to 15% of women. However, the instances may be a lot higher than is actually reported, since many women do not have the confidence to get the problem checked out by a Doctor. On top of this, vulvodynia is notoriously difficult to diagnose, so there may well be many cases that go undetected. Is vulvodynia genetic? Firstly, the aetiology of vulvodynia (i.e. the cause, set of causes, or manner of causation of the condition) is considered to have many factors. If there are any predisposing factors that influence how susceptible you are to vulvodynia, they are not conclusively identified. Theories indicate the potential of it being a neuropathic problem, but this does not answer the question of whether vulvodynia is genetic. Some women may also be predisposed to a stronger inflammatory response. One study noted on NCBI (Witkin) of 162 women with vestibulodynia syndrome (pain around the entrance of the vagina) did find that there was a link between VS and the following conditions: Personal systemic disease Inflammatory bowel disease Allergy A family history of diabetes mellitus Arthritis A genetic factor was hypothesized for women who had idiopathic recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis. The fact that data shows higher instances of vestibulodynia syndrome in Caucasian women also supports a potential link between genetics and vulvodynia. VS was also found to be plausible as hereditary in cases where the patient’s family had a history of dyspareunia (painful sex). Therefore it seems that for some women at least, it’s possible that vulvodynia is indeed genetic. What else can cause vulvodynia? Among other things (which are covered in our many articles on vulvodynia), it is worth noting that some food products may exacerbate or trigger vulvodynia and any of its subsets. Some of the foods that have been linked to vulvodynia symptoms are: Soy products Goat dairy Wheat gluten If you are prone to bouts of vulvodynia or already in the midst of one, it may be worth limiting your intake of these types of foods and see if it makes any difference. Women with allergies, and food allergies in particular, may be able to determine a link between such foodstuffs and their vulvodynia flare-ups. As well as eliminating these foods from your diet, you may find some relief by incorporating supplements into it. Some vulvodynia patients have found freedom from symptoms by introducing the following supplements: Magnesium Vitamin D3 Vitamin B12 Omega-3 Probiotics The bottom line is that whether vulvodynia is genetic or not, there are still lots of things you can do to relieve the symptoms. You may need to spend some time on trial and error to find the combination that works for you. If you have not yet tried vaginal dilators for vulvodynia, these could also be worth a try. Check out our blog for more vulvodynia information and do get in touch if we can help! Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
Learn moreDoes Vulvodynia Get Worse Over Time?
The pain condition we call vulvodynia can be challenging on various levels. It not only affects you physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Any pain condition that doesn’t go away easily is likely to lead to worry and anxiety, and for some it can even lead to depression. Therefore it’s important to manage the situation as soon as possible. Women with vulvodynia tend to have a lot of questions around the condition; in particular how long it will last for, whether it will go away on its own, what makes it better, what makes it worse… you name it. One we are commonly asked is, “Does vulvodynia get worse over time?” At VuvaTech we have a great deal of experience with this condition, so we try to address each of these pressing questions as thoroughly as possible. For those who aren’t too familiar with vulvodynia, the term refers to persistent pain in the vulva. This pain happens despite no visible abnormalities or clearly identifiable causes; currently the causal factors are more or less a matter of speculation. There is no definitive conclusion right now, but research has shown that it is likely to be a nerve issue. Does vulvodynia get worse over time? Assuming that vulvodyna is actually a nerve problem, it stands to reason that overly sensitive or irritated nerve fibers can cause varying degrees of pain - depending on what they’re subjected to. It seems that with vulvodynia, nerve fibers can send abnormal signals and these result in the sensation of pain, and even the slightest touch can make the nerve fibers over-respond. If your vulvodynia symptoms continue over time, you have what’s called ‘unprovoked vulvodynia’. If they only happen when pressure is applied, you have ‘provoked vulvodynia’. Whatever the type of vulvodynia you have, the pain is not usually progressive, meaning that it won’t get worse the longer you have it. Although the pain of vulvovdynia can get worse, it has nothing to do with the passing of time and everything to do with activities and exposure. So if you do have vulvodynia, there is no need to worry that it’s going to get worse and worse. On the contrary - there are many effective vulvodynia treatments out there and combining some of these brings most women relief. It may make you feel better to know that vulvodynia can go away on its own, and it frequently does. What can make vulvodynia get worse? Under certain circumstances the pain of vulvodynia may worsen. For instance, if you have surgery in the area and it results in scarring. Sexual intercourse can trigger more pain, as can inserting tampons. Even sitting for extended periods of time can make vulvodynia pain worse. The reality is that there are many things that can trigger vulvodynia and make the pain worse, but this doesn’t mean you’ll never get rid of it. It just means that you’ll need to be vigilant about your activities and lifestyle choices. It is important not to panic or let it overwhelm you or alter the quality of your life, since this is what leads to depression and isolation – neither of which will help you to recover from vulvodynia. So the bottom line is that although there are things that can make vulvodynia get worse, time is not one of them, and you do have some control over the situation. Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
Learn moreHow Long Does Vulvodynia Last?
When is this going to be over? Nobody wants pain, but the pain of vulvodynia is another kind of pain entirely. It’s the kind of pain that you can’t really just put up with, so when you have vulvodynia, you’re going to want to know this: how long does vulvodynia last? We would love to put your mind at ease with a simple answer, but unfortunately women tend to have vulvodynia for varying periods of time. Although vulvodynia is not life threatening, the pain can be quite overwhelming at times and may get in the way of even the most basic activities, like sitting, walking, exercising, inserting tampons and having sex. We know that most women are not prepared to tolerate this kind of pain, and nor should they be… and there are things you can do about this condition. If you need help, keep reading - we are going to try and allay some of your fears in this article. Seriously, when? “How long does vulvudynia usually last?” We have been asked this question so many times, but sadly we can’t give a definitive answer. However, as a ballpark figure, we can say that vulvodynia often lasts for around three months. It usually comes on quite suddenly, which can be more than a little scary and bewildering. For some women vulvodynia lasts for a matter of weeks or months, and for others it may go on for years. It’s actually pretty common for the pain of vulvodynia to be present for several years before women even get a diagnosis. Often they will leave it until the pain is unbearable before seeking help, since the issue is in such a private and sensitive area. Many women will wait it out, wondering whether vulvodynia can go away on its own… which is another burning question we’re often asked! What can I do if vulvodynia lasts a long time? When it comes to treating vulvodynia, the simple truth is that there is no one-size-fits all strategy. When they find out what the problem is, most women go straight to Google to ask, “What is the best treatment for vulvodynia?” and we can’t really blame them! Sometimes a combination of vulvodynia treatments is required before any tangible results appear. If you’ve tried the recommended vulvodynia home remedies and still need further assistance, you may need to contact your Doctor. Your Doctor might prescribe oral, topical or injected medications including: Local anesthetics (e.g. Lidocaine) Estrogen creams Tricyclic antidepressants Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors Anticonvulsants Nerve blocks Anti-inflammatories (e.g. mast cell stabilizers or steroids) Botox Neurostimulation/spinal infusion pump Don’t forget that there are also powerful natural medicines like CBD oil at your disposal, and many women have had success with those. So as you can see, the answer to that tricky question, ‘How long does vulvodynia last?’ is not cut and dried. However, with the right level of self-care and a sensible level of medical care when required, you should find that your vulvodynia flare-ups are less frequent and the condition doesn’t plague you for years. If you’re struggling and need some support, Vuvatech are here to help however we can. We have written a lot on the topic of vulvodynia and our inbox is only a click away. We’re wishing you the quickest recovery time possible! Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
Learn moreWhat are the Symptoms of Tight Pelvic Floor Muscles?
Is A Tight Pelvic Floor The Issue? Sometimes people who are suffering from tight pelvic floor muscles are not even aware that a tight pelvic floor is the problem. There are many symptoms of tight pelvic floor muscles, but as is often the case, pain is one of the biggest red flags. When muscles get too tight, we call them hypertonic. Due to the location of these muscles, it can be difficult to pinpoint the origin of your aches and pains - especially if you’re not well versed with pelvic floor muscle groups and how they function. Your pelvic floor muscles are the muscle group responsible for connecting the lower part of the pelvis and sacrum. The pelvic floor (also known as the pelvic diaphragm) looks something like a hammock; in women it supports the bladder, rectum and womb, and it wraps around the vagina, urethra and rectum. It makes sense that when the muscles constrict, this can get pretty uncomfortable and cause some degree of dysfunction. This article aims to help you understand your symptoms so you can figure out if a hypertonic pelvic floor is to blame. What are the symptoms of tight pelvic floor muscles? If you have a hypertonic pelvic floor, you’re likely to experience the following symptoms: Muscle spasms and contractions in the pelvic area A frequent need to urinate Difficulty in starting and/or maintaining the flow of urine Feelings of urgency (bladder or bowel) Pain when urinating Inability to totally empty your bladder Constipation Prolapse Straining when passing stools Pain when passing stools, or afterwards Lower back pain, especially in the pelvic area (including genitals, rectum and hips) Dyspareunia (pain during or after sexual activity) Pain upon internal examination Feelings of tightness in the muscles around the hips, glutes, lower back, groin and abdomen There is a reason that your pelvic muscles need to be able to contract: this is how you stop yourself from urinating or defecating when it’s not convenient. Also (for women) the muscles need to be able to contract during sexual intercourse – which is essentially what happens during orgasm. Why do I have symptoms of tight pelvic floor muscles? There could be many reasons for tight pelvic floor muscles. Here are some of the most common: Too much time working out (especially the core region) Regularly holding on to urine on stools for too long because it’s inconvenient to go High stress levels, anxiety and fear (these can create tension in all muscles of the body) Endometriosis and other reproductive disorders might result in tension in this area because of inflammation and pain Irritable bowel syndrome and abdominal cramps Pelvic disorders like interstitial cystitis, pudendal neuralgia and vulvodynia Scar tissue from operations or birth trauma If you are suffering from symptoms of tight pelvic floor muscles, don’t worry - there are lots of things you can do about it. In fact, we wrote an article about exactly that, so please do read it! We hope this advice brings you the relief you need. If you found this article helpful, don’t forget to check out the other articles in our blog… we do all that we can to openly address the often difficult-to-discuss topics around women’s health. So if we can lighten your load in any way, our work is done! Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
Learn moreLoss of Libido in Women: Why is it Happening and What Can You Do?
Women are complex creatures, and we all know well that psychological and physical problems are either intrinsically linked, or have a knock-on effect on each other. This is certainly true of our libidos… when these starts to decline, it can leave us feeling quite uncomfortable – especially when we are in a relationship. Loss of libido can happen for a large number of reasons, so working out what to do about it means understanding the cause. Loss of libido (sexual desire) is common enough to have been given a medical name: hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). It can happen to women of any age, but is more common in older women or those who have had children. In fact, one study concluded that almost a third of women between the ages of 18 to 59 lose interest in sex at some point, and this may not be just a psychological problem. Why the loss of libido? Although there is no golden rule as to what constitutes a healthy libido or sex life, if you have suddenly lost your libido and feel this is a problem, it is worth trying to get to the bottom of why it has gone. When a woman’s sex drive declines, this may be down to a single dominant factor or a combination of factors. If the cause isn’t exactly clear to you, it may help to understand some of the most common reasons for loss of libido: Personal or professional stress Pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding Declining hormones due to age (the perimenopause and menopause) or medical issues Relationship problems/lack of confidence in the relationship Lack of self-confidence or confidence in bed Physical exhaustion Some of these reasons may seem obvious, but there are times when loss of libido comes out of nowhere and the cause is hard to pinpoint. If your libido isn’t coming back in a hurry, or disappears and returns intermittently, there could be an underlying issue to uncover. Other causes of loss of libido: Vaginsmus: negative anticipation of sexual activity or painful intercourse Depression Medications and hormone-altering contraception Drugs and alcohol Hormonal issues due to underactive thyroid What to do if your libido has declined As mentioned above, it is difficult to tackle the problem if you don’t know what the cause is. However, if you have pinpointed the reason for your loss of libido, the solution may be obvious. For instance, if it is due to excessive use of drugs or alcohol, refraining from these substances is key. If the problem is exhaustion, more rest is required. For relationship problems, counseling or communication may be the answer. The same goes for depression, anxiety and stress; medication may help, but the root causes must be addressed for a long-term solution. If the cause of lost libido is menopause, some women find success with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), although this does have potential side effects and should be thoroughly researched. In the case of vaginismus, there are ways to increase your confidence in bed, which may lead to a libido boost. For those who have experienced loss of libido after taking medication or birth control, ask your Doctor if there is an alternative you can try. Also, remember that sex is not the only way to maintain intimacy. Affection, kissing and foreplay could all help to boost your libido, and even when you don’t feel like it, once you get into it, this can help to kick start sexual feelings once again. Loss of libido doesn’t have to be permanent, and we hope this article has given you some hope or inspiration. If so, please check out the other articles in our blog for helpful tips and insights on all things to do with women’s health.
Learn moreDo Magnetic Dilators Work? Magentic vs. Placebo Dilators: A Double Blind Placebo Study Results
Pelvic pain and other related conditions can affect one's quality of life. As much as 1 in 4 women suffer from vulvodynia, a condition characterized by vulvar pain lasting for 3 months or longer. Similarly, vaginismus is another condition that affects a woman's sex life, making it difficult for them to have intercourse. To help women overcome these conditions, VuVa Dilator Company designed magnetic vaginal dilators. In this blog post, we discuss the clinical trial results for magnetic vaginal dilators from VuVa Dilator Company and why they are a game-changer.1. What are Magnetic Vaginal Dilators? Magnetic vaginal dilators work on the principle of magnetic therapy and are an innovative approach to supporting pelvic health. The VuVa Dilator Company includes Neodymium Magnetic therapy in their dilators. The magnetic field stimulates the nerves, improves muscle function, increases blood flow, and provides relaxation, making the vaginal treatment more effective. 2. Clinical Trial Results VuVa Clinical Trial Chief Investigator - Dr. Michael Swor Dr. G. Michael Swor is an obstetrician-gynecologist in Sarasota, Florida and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Doctors Hospital of Sarasota and Sarasota Memorial Health Care System. He received his medical degree from University of South Florida College of Medicine and has been in practice for 34 years. VuVa Vaginal Dilators vs. Placebo Dilators: A Double Blind Placebo Study Results Eighty percent (80%) of study subjects reported a decrease in overall pain after using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators. Subjects using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators experienced an average thirty percent (30%) decrease in pain levels on a standardized tampon test, which is a way to clinically measure pain associated with sexual intercourse. The cotton swab test evaluates eleven (11) different locations of the vulvar vestibule for pain. Eighty percent (80%) of the study subjects reported a decrease in the total number of locations after using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators. Subjects using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators experienced an average twenty eight percent (28%) decrease in pain levels using a standardized cotton swab test, which is a non-invasive measure of vaginal pain. Overall anxiety associated with vaginal penetration is significantly decreased in all subjects. Subjects report feeling more confident about their sexual health in the future after completing the study. Subjects report that VuVa dilator therapy is not a painful treatment. For Full Study CLICK HERE 3. Benefits of Magnetic Vaginal DilatorsUsing magnetic vaginal dilators has many benefits. Some of the benefits include increased blood flow, reduced tension and discomfort, enhanced nerve function and improved muscle strength and flexibility. Magnetic dilators are also easy to use and increases the success rate of pelvic therapy because of their unique design and the use of magnetic therapy. They also provide a more comfortable therapy experience and can make intercourse more enjoyable, leading to a better quality of life.4. How to Use VuVa Magnetic Vaginal DilatorsUsing VuVa magnetic vaginal dilators is simple. They are easy to insert, and the magnetic therapy has no side effects. The dilators need to be used daily for about 5-20 minutes initially, gradually working up to 20-30 minutes as the vagina accommodates the dilator. The best time to use the VuVa dilators is when you are relaxed and focused on calming breathing techniques.5. Are VuVa Magnetic Vaginal Dilators Safe? VuVa magnetic vaginal dilators are safe to use and have no known side effects. Magnetic therapy has been safely used for over 100 years in a variety of medical applications. However, patients with pacemakers and other implanted devices should not use magnetic dilators.The clinical trial results for VuVa Magnetic Vaginal Dilators are promising and show that they are a viable approach to improving pelvic health. Using magnetic therapy to improve muscle function, increase blood flow, and reduce tension and discomfort, magnetic dilators are transforming the world of pelvic therapy. Pelvic pain should not be a barrier to enjoying sex or living your life to the fullest. Give VuVa dilators a try and take control of your pelvic health. VuVa Dilator Company Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
Learn moreWhat is the success rate of vaginal dilators? Will they help me with my painful sex condition?
The success rate of vaginal dilators can vary depending on various factors such as the underlying condition/disorder being treated, the individual's adherence to the treatment plan (most important), and the guidance and support provided by healthcare professionals or pelvic floor physical therapist. Vaginal dilators are commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as vaginismus, vaginal atrophy, dyspareunia (painful intercourse), vaginal stenosis, and post-surgical vaginal scarring.Vaginal dilators are medical devices designed to gradually stretch and expand the vaginal muscles and tissues. They come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate individual needs and comfort levels. The primary goal of using vaginal dilators is to increase the flexibility, elasticity, and capacity of the vaginal canal. The specific success rate of vaginal dilators can be difficult to quantify precisely due to the lack of standardized research studies specifically focused on this topic. However, anecdotal evidence and clinical experience suggest that they can be effective in improving symptoms and restoring sexual function for many individuals.A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine examined the use of vaginal dilators in women with vaginismus. The study found that after six months of using vaginal dilators as part of a comprehensive treatment program, 75% of participants reported significant improvement in their ability to have pain-free intercourse. Another study published in the International Urogynecology Journal evaluated the use of dilators in women with vaginal stenosis following radiation therapy for gynecological cancer. The JSM study reported a success rate of 80% in terms of achieving successful vaginal penetration.It is important to note that success rates may vary depending on individual factors such as the severity of the condition, psychological factors, previous trauma, and overall health status. Additionally, it is crucial for individuals using vaginal dilators to receive proper guidance from healthcare professionals who specialize in sexual medicine or pelvic floor therapy. Painful sex, also known as dyspareunia, is a common condition that affects women of all ages. It refers to persistent or recurrent pain experienced during sexual intercourse. The exact number of women who suffer from painful sex can vary depending on various factors such as the population studied, the definition of painful sex used, and the methodology employed in research studies.According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, it is estimated that approximately 8-21% of women experience painful sex at some point in their lives. This wide range reflects the variability in reported prevalence rates across different studies. The study also found that the prevalence of dyspareunia tends to decrease with age.Another study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology reported that around 7.5% of women aged 16-74 years in the United Kingdom reported experiencing pain during sexual intercourse. This study was based on a large-scale survey conducted among a representative sample of women in the UK.The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that dyspareunia is a common problem affecting up to 20% of women. They emphasize that it is important for healthcare providers to address this issue and provide appropriate treatment options.It is worth noting that painful sex can have various underlying causes, including physical, psychological, or both. Some common physical causes include vaginal dryness, infections, hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and certain medical conditions such as vulvodynia or vaginismus. Psychological factors such as anxiety, stress, relationship issues, or a history of sexual trauma can also contribute to painful sex.Treatment options for painful sex depend on the underlying cause and may include addressing any physical issues, such as using lubricants or hormone therapy for vaginal dryness, treating infections or medical conditions, or undergoing physical therapy. Psychological interventions, such as counseling or therapy, may also be beneficial in cases where psychological factors are involved. VuVa Magnetic Vaginal Dilators vs. Placebo Dilators: A Double Blind Placebo Study Eighty percent (80%) of study subjects reported a decrease in overall pain after using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators. Subjects using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators experienced an average thirty percent (30%) decrease in pain levels on a standardized tampon test, which is a way to clinically measure pain associated with sexual intercourse. The cotton swab test evaluates eleven (11) different locations of the vulvar vestibule for pain. Eighty percent (80%) of the study subjects reported a decrease in the total number of locations after using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators. Subjects using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators experienced an average twenty eight percent (28%) decrease in pain levels using a standardized cotton swab test, which is a non-invasive measure of vaginal pain. Overall anxiety associated with vaginal penetration is significantly decreased in all subjects. Subjects report feeling more confident about their sexual health in the future after completing the study. Subjects report that VuVa dilator therapy is not a painful treatment. For Full Study CLICK HERE Reference Publications: 1. Journal of Sexual Medicine - A peer-reviewed journal publishing research on various aspects of sexual medicine.2. International Urogynecology Journal - A leading journal focusing on urogynecology and female pelvic floor disorders.3. Mayo Clinic - A reputable medical organization providing reliable information on various health topics, including vaginal health and treatment options. VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Tara Langdale Schmidt is the inventor of the VuVa Dilator Company. She has pelvic floor dysfunction herself and wanted to create a dilator set that is made in America that women can trust. VuVatech has been in business since 2014 and has helped over 50,000 women all over the globe. She patented the Neodymium Vaginal Dilator, that is clinically proven to help with blood flow and nerve pain.
Learn moreWhat is the number one vulvar pain home remedy?
Vulvar pain has quite a spectrum, but it tends to be one of those things we don’t learn much about until we experience it. Pain in the vulvar region can cause great worry and anxiety, especially when you can’t immediately pinpoint the cause. The prospect of having to consult a professional about pain in the vagina often adds to the anxiety, which is why many women are looking for the best vulvar pain home remedy available. Rest assured that there are always solutions to heal pain in the vulva, and some can be done in the privacy of your own home. The fact is that pain in the vagina is debilitating, regardless of whether you have an active sex life. It’s a sensitive area, and when it hurts, you can’t ignore it. Even sitting down can be a problem, depending on the cause of your vulvar pain. In this article we’ll cover the many causes of vulvar pain, provide some further reading for each issue, and give you the lowdown on the clinically proven best option for treating vulvar pain at home… How common is vulvar pain? According to a paper published in the International Journal of Women’s Health, 16% of all women in the United States will experience chronic vulvar pain at some point. So, pain in the vulva is definitely common and women can develop quite a range of vaginal problems at some stage in life. Vulva pain affects women of all ages, and from all backgrounds and ethnicities. Typically, women aged between 20 and 40 report to vulvar pain. For some it is classified as chronic, and some report unbearable pain. Some vaginal pain is age-related; some is hormone-related; some is psychological in origin (fear of penetration), while some is the result of infections or nerve damage. Sometimes there is more than one cause of vulvar pain, and while it helps to know the origins, that’s not always possible. In all cases you can, at the very least, work with your vulvar pain symptoms. What are the main causes of vulvar pain? Vulvodynia Vaginal burning, stinging, itching or stabbing pain is extremely difficult to deal with, but women with vulvodynia have to suffer through this every day. Vulvodynia can be one of the more challenging types of vulvar pain to deal with because there is no definitive cause; it could have various origins. Classified as unexplained vulva pain that lasts longer than three months, 8% of women with vulvodynia have it for their entire lifetime. Others will have it for a few months, or intermittently over several years. How do you know if you have vulvodynia? If you experience no discharge but a burning sensation, and this sensation is consistent (even if intermittent), it could well be vulvodynia. Unfortunately, it does require a professional diagnosis and vulvodynia is unlikely to go away on its own. However, our vulvar pain home remedy has helped so many women to heal vulvodynia. Vaginismus Another very common cause of pain in the vagina is vaginismus. How do you know if you have vaginismus? The below list is a good place to start: You have problems inserting a tampon You have anxiety even at the thought of penetration of any kind You get painful spasms in your pelvic floor muscles You have pain during sex, or penetration is difficult or impossible You find gynecological exams painful or impossible The above symptoms generally indicate vaginismus. The vulvar pain comes from the involuntary ‘clamping shut’ of the vaginal muscles, especially when penetration is attempted. Again, our vulvar pain remedy you can use at home will help to train your muscles to respond differently and ease your anxiety. Lichen sclerosus Another major cause of vaginal burning and discomfort is lichen sclerosus. Affecting the skin around the vulva and anus, it causes itchy white patches that can crack and become inflamed and sore. This can result in thin skinning, tightening and forming scar tissue and adhesions, which in turn can reduce the vaginal opening. In the case of tightening and scarring, surgery can correct adhesions and reopen the vaginal entrance, but it can also to help to work on this situation at home with the number one vulvar pain home remedy. Vaginal infections that cause vulvar pain There are various infections of the vagina that cause vulvar pain. Among the most common are yeast infections; a fungal infection also known as thrush, which comes from candidiasis overgrowth. This causes redness, itchiness and soreness, along with a thick white discharge. There is also bacterial vaginosis (BV), caused by an imbalance in the vaginal pH, and UTI (urinary tract infections), both of which can cause burning pains in the vulva. Peri-menopausal women may suffer from recurrent BV and UTIs as their hormone levels decline. Finally, there are sexual transmitted infections such as genital herpes, which causes painful blisters in the vulvar region. In order to treat vaginal infections you will need to consume some kind of antibiotic (research natural options first!) or suppositories, depending on the issue you have. It’s a good idea to have a test to confirm the specific infection causing vulvar pain. Vulvar pain causes dyspareunia If you have any of the above problems and you try to have sex, you’re likely to experience dyspareunia. That’s the name for painful sex, and it’s very difficult to relax into lovemaking when you have vaginal pain – even if it’s mild! Dyspareunia is one of the main reasons women seek diagnosis and help for vaginal pain. Sometimes the dyspareunia is what alerts a woman to her vulva pain condition. Fortunately, we have one of the world’s most trusted home remedies for vulvar pain and one of its main benefits is healing dyspareunia. What is the top vulvar pain home remedy? Although there are lots of specific remedies for different types of vulvar pain, some things require prescription or professional application or assistance. The tried-and-tested, clinically proven home remedy for vulva pain is vaginal dilators. Vaginal dilators are smooth pelvic wands made from plastic or silicone. They help to strengthen vaginal muscles slowly and naturally, building on capacity and elasticity, and desensitizing both physical and emotional nerves. Sometimes referred to as vaginal trainers, they are commonly used by therapists to improve the above vulvar pain conditions and more (except infections!). We always recommend our patented magnetic dilators, which have even more healing benefits. Other vulvar pain conditions dilators can help Vaginal dilators are also used for the following conditions, many of which cause a degree of vaginal pain: Vaginal stenosis Vulvar vestibulitis Vaginal atrophy Pudendal neuralgia Pelvic radiation therapy Vaginal agenesis The great thing is that you can purchase your own dilators for use privately at home, in your own time, at your own pace. We even have a sale across several ranges, so it’s a great time to buy dilators. If you’d like to know more, you can read about using vaginal dilators for vulvar pain here, as well as some success stories to give you confidence and help you see the light at the end of the tunnel. What’s more, our extensive blog covers all vulvar pain conditions in great detail, so take a look around! If you don’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch as we’ll be happy to help. Resources Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/vulvodynia-symptoms-causes-treatment Vuvatech.com/blogs/vuvagirlblog/treating-vaginismus-with-vaginal-dilators Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/lichen-sclerosus-treatment-tips-worth-knowing-about Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/what-are-dilators-used-for
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We create safe, effective products that truly work — designed to help you relax, restore balance, and feel good in your body again. Our VuVa® Pelvic Floor Support Sets gently calm nerves, ease tension, and support natural pelvic healing from the inside out.

