Hormones and Vulvodynia?

Posted , 7 users are following.

 I have been diagnosed with vulvodynia throughout 9 months of burning and soreness. The glands of the vestibule are red but that is the only symptom. I have seen two specialists who have been helpful but ultimately fruitless. 

The pain builds up after my period to a peak during ovulation which then begins to very gradually decrease in intensity until almost disappearing during my period to then start the cycle again. Whilst on Microgynon the pain was constant throughout the month where it usually fluctuates, so I am wondering if there could be any hormonal link? 

I have extremely painful, heavy, long periods but they are regular. I had hormone tests for this reason a year ago and the GP claimed very high testosterone but everything else was within “normal” levels, however she debated for a while about PCOS before deciding against it. 

The pain started after a period of trying different BCPs of which none agreed with me, during which time I battled a number of yeast infections due to the pill. 

I have had every treatment for dermatitis, a biopsy as well as antibiotics for BV which did not help. However, what remains constant when not on treatment is the improvement during my period.

Any theories or advice would be greatly appreciated! I am only 22 and this is having a huge impact on my self esteem and relationship!

0 likes, 21 replies

21 Replies

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  • Posted

    I completely understand how you feel, I’ve been through the same thing after trying BCP’s. I went through a period of depression and hardships in the beginning, I felt like less of a woman. I was 22 and it’s been about 3 years now but I’ve found some relief. I can do all the things I used to without thinking about my pain. I’ll send you a link to my doctor, there are testimonies on his page as well and a Facebook group. http://www.fowlergyninternational.com

  • Posted

    Hello,

    I can really relate to your post.

    I have been diagnosed with Vulvodynia and when I have my period is time of most relief during my cycle.

    Over the past few months I have noticed that my discharge and burning sensation really increases during  ovulation. Has anyone else noticed that?

    I have also started to experience abdominal pain around that time which worries me.

    I do get temporary relief from Sudocreme so you might want to give that a try x

    • Posted

      My discharge stings  me around ovulation. I believe it is just the acidic fluid on inflamed skin. In general lemon water helped me when going to the toilet and dermovate ointment calmed the inflammation. 

      My pain has changed and is now more provoked, they believe what originally caused the vulvodynia has healed however I now have nerve inflammation as a result of the chronic skin inflammation. I have been prescribed pregabalin and will update on how that goes. 

      My pain has improved a lot since I first saw a doctor and though it has been a long process of trial and error, finally finding a knowledgable, dedicated gynaecologist has helped my mood and healing.

  • Posted

    I have been diagnosed with Vulvodynia for one year. I have never felt comfortable with this broad and vague definition. After been advised to try nerve blockers ( anti depressants ) and the Pill I did my own research and have seen a Private doctor. I requested specialist testing and have just been told that my swab finally tested positive for something! I know it's strange to be relieved to finally have tested positive but I have been diagnosed with Ureaplasma. This is a horrible bacteria that GP's know very little about. I had to do my own research but I hope it will be worth it! I start my antibiotics tomorrow.

    Don't stop questioning the health 'professionals'!

    • Posted

      The problem is the health professionals go for the most common conditions. And, yes, 99% of the time they will be right. But what about those who have something rare? They just have to suffer or get proactive.

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