Definition
Persistent vulval pain without a clear identifiable cause after assessment, often lasting at least three months.
Symptoms
Burning, stinging or contact pain during sex or sitting.
How it may be discovered
Ongoing pain sometimes incorrectly treated as recurrent infection.
When to seek care
Seek help for persistent pain; new lesions, sores or bleeding need examination.
Investigations and tests
Consensual examination, pain mapping and indicated sampling.
Reaching a diagnosis
Exclude infection, skin disease and hormonal causes; there is no single confirming test.
Treatment options
Avoid irritants; consider specialist pelvic care, pain treatment and psychosexual support.
Explore this topic further
Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.