Vestibulitis
The vestibule is the area of the female genitalia from the base of the clitoris to the beginning of the perineum. One of the most common vestibular pain disorders is vulvar vestibulitis, or vestibulodynia. It is often the most frequent cause of dyspareunia or pain with intercourse in premenopausal women.
Vulvar vestibulitis is diagnosed when three specific criteria are met:
1. exquisite tenderness when the vestibule is examined with a cotton swab
2. vestibular erythema (redness)
3. severe pain with the attempt of any vaginal penetration – with intercourse, speculum or tampon.
Vulvar vestibulitis is not completely understood. It is thought to be related to a proliferation or overgrowth of certain pain receptors, and appears to have an inflammatory response associated with it.
Treatment includes topical and oral medical therapy as the first-line; followed by surgery by removing the vestibular tissue for refractory cases.
Karen Elizabeth Boyle, M.D.
Reproductive Medicine & Surgery, Sexuality and Aesthetics
Contact Us
Karen E. Boyle, M.D.
Phone: 877-290-5055
Fax: 410-825-5811
Chesapeake Urology Associates at Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC)
Physicians Pavilion North
6535 North Charles Street, Suite 625
Baltimore, MD 21204
