Vulvodynia is the medical term for persistent pain in the vulva (external female genitals) that has no apparent cause. The pain may be a stinging, burning, or sore sensation, and may be triggered by touch.
It may affect all or part of the vulva, and may sometimes spread to the inner thighs or buttocks. This condition is more common in young women. There is no one treatment that works for everybody.
Treatments that may be tried include avoiding scented soaps and personal hygiene products, and using an anesthetic gel or vaginal lubricant.
Over- the-counter pain relievers are usually ineffective, although a doctor may prescribe other medications to relieve the symptoms or may advise other treatments, such as physical therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Persistent vulval pain may be due to a condition other than vulvodynia, so medical advice should be sought