Terminology & General Info
The terminology used to describe sexual pain is complex and has changed over the years. It’s also important to understand vulvar anatomy in detail.
Generalized Vulvodynia
Generalized vulvodynia is a type of vulvodynia characterized by pain throughout the vulva that is unprovoked.
Vestibulodynia
Vestibulodynia is a type of vulvodynia characterized by pain located only in the vestibule tissue, which surrounds the openings of the vagina and urethra.
Vestibulectomy
Vestibulectomy is the surgical removal of the vestibule tissue.
Clitorodynia
Clitorodynia is pain localized to the clitoris.
Hypertonic Pelvic Floor & Vaginismus
Hypertonic pelvic floor dysfunction refers to pelvic floor muscles that are too tight. Vaginismus is characterized by uncontrollable spasms of the pelvic floor muscles, which constricts the vaginal canal.
Hypotonic Pelvic Floor
Hypotonic pelvic floor dysfunction refers to pelvic floor muscles that are too loose or weak.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Pelvic floor physical therapy is an important treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction of all types.
Other causes of dyspareunia
Sexual pain can also be caused by conditions outside of vulvodynia and muscle dysfunction.
How to assess sexual function and pain
A number of questionnaires have been developed to assess all aspects of sexual health. These are often used in research studies, but can also be useful for your doctor.