[kochi]

My girlfriend has vuvlodynia.. (just found out) which was the cause of our sexual relationships been very very strained. SHe would dread sex because of the pain.

Does anyone have any information on this and can anyone give any suggestions. We are trying to find a decent doctor... and go from there.

[ISneezeFunny]

A doctor's visit is definitely in order. The main cause for vulvodynia is unknown, but finding out the typical health condition of your girlfriend will help the doctor decide which route of treatment she should receive.

She may be prescribed a topical ointment, injections, or antidepressants/antihistamine/anticonvulsants to help alleviate the pain.

[kochi]

Thanks...

Her doc presrcibed a numbing agent but that only numbs the situaation and barely works... I am trying to find a solution that she doesn't have to "dread" having sex, its gotten to a point where she even hates being kissed cause she thinks it will lead to sex.

I just want her to be comfortable whatver that means

[templelane]

Have a look here if you haven't already.

Vulval Pain Society - Vulvodynia

[kochi]

Thanks that helps.

YOu know I'm forcing my girfriend for "us" to deal with this and try to find something that is comfortable, whatever that may mean..

Is that wrong?

[MrEasy]

Kochi, I read the link Templelane sent you and the following sentence stood out to me under the heading "WHAT CAUSES IT?" "For a minority of women with vulvodynia, back problems eg slipped discs, can cause spinal nerve compression and cause referred pain to the vulval area." Does she have any lower back or leg pain? This could be something to look into with a chiropractor. A simple x-ray in a chiropractor's office would show if there's any disc or nerve compression problems.
Another suggestion is for her to start taking liquid fish oil (emulsified with flavor is easier to take). Two to three tablespoons per day can help provide sufficient Omega 3's to help heal inflamed nerve endings.

[liz28]

You really need to have clear communication can build your relationship. She most likely feel really bad and is coping with this issue too. This can put a strain on your relationship but there are other ways to help the both of you cope with this and for her they do have online support groups, if she is interested.

Sex isn't all about vaginal intercourse your can explore other avenues since as oral. Also, a sex or couple therapist to help you with this aspect of your relationship. Sex or couple therapists can help women and their partners confront difficult issues that arise when sexual dysfunction is present in a relationship due to pain, and help the couple explore alternative avenues of expressing love and affection.

Also, psychotherapy, pelvic floor physiotherapy can help too. Often, some of the techniques you learn through these therapies can be incorporated into foreplay and sexual activity by your partner.

It's tough for women to deal with this but luckily she has support from you. She will come around but when she's is ready. I hope your find a good doctor and ask him for ideas as well.

Women.webmd.com/vulvodynia -
Try this site!

[Revival]

How can they explore other avenues in their sexuality when whenever she's touched all she feels is scorching pain? I think you're mixing threads there Liz.