First part of the material Treatment for vulvodynia Although there is no cure for vulvodynia, therapy is used to relieve pain. Attention and self-care are essential. Women with vulvodynia should be monitored and find methods that alleviate their condition. Since the resulting therapy is very individual, it goes through several types of treatment. Self-care A list of measures has been prepared that help relieve pain in women with vulvodynia. The main advice is to avoid substances and means that cause the complaint. For example, soap, medicines, douches. Expert advice for those affected: Use dermatologically tested detergents and avoid fabric softeners. Aim for unscented toilet paper that is natural or white in color but not dyed. Use 100% white cotton underwear, cotton sanitary napkins and tampons. Avoid using shampoo when grooming the genitals, as well as scented creams, including scented topical contraceptives and spermicides. Hot baths and pools with highly chlorinated water are not suitable for you. Wash with lukewarm water after urination and sexual intercourse. It is recommended to limit foods and drinks with a diuretic effect – these are products such as green leafy vegetables, legumes, berries, chocolate and nuts. Clothing should be loose enough, avoid pantyhose. Take care of hygiene and keep the external genitalia dry. What else will help? Some activities cause stress on the genitalia. That’s why experts advise: to use liquid-based lubricants during sex, to avoid activities that put tension on the tissues of the genital organs, such as cycling and horse riding, not to use or sit on materials such as a bath sponge, foam, etc. How the pain can be soothed: Take a bath with lukewarm water. In case the pain occurs after intercourse, apply ice or a cold compress. Use a relaxation technique. to obtain a satisfactory response from all concerned. There are several types of treatment. Keep in mind that chronic pain reflects on the emotional state, so carefully consider the option of taking medication or joining a psychological support group. Medical therapy uses local anesthetics such as lidocaine, estrogen creams, tricyclic antidepressants, anticonvulsants, blockers, interferon. A program of therapeutic gymnastics has been prepared, which includes exercises for stretching the pelvic muscles and weakening muscle spasms, which should have a protective effect against the condition. Mastering the Biofeedback technique, which teaches vaginal muscles to relax and reduce pain, is also beneficial. In vulvodynia of the vulvar vestibilitis syndrome type, after other remedies have failed,specialists may suggest surgical removal of the painful tissues.