The external portion of the female genitals, called the vulva, includes the opening to the vagina and urethra, the inner and outer labia, and the clitoris. Some women may experience pain in the vulvar region, also called vulvodynia. The pain varies between women and may come and go or become chronic. Some women have pain localized to the opening of the vagina while others have generalized pain in the entire area of the vulva, according to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Although there is no definite cause for the condition, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing vulvodynia.
Infection
Sexually transmitted diseases and infections such as herpes or human papillomavirus do not cause vulvodynia to occur, but other vaginal infection may. Women with a history of previous vaginal infections, such as vaginitis, or recurring bouts of yeast infections have an increased risk of developing pain in the vulvar region, according to MayoClinic.com.
Irritating Substances
Using topical products on the skin may cause an allergy to develop or a hypersensitivity to occur in the area. Both of these conditions may lead to pain or discomfort to the vulva. Common products used include feminine hygiene products such as douches, scented maxi pads and vaginal creams.
Nerve and Muscular Damage
Any type of trauma to the area may cause pain due to damage to the nerves in the area. Women with a history of sexual abuse may also have an increased risk of developing vulvodynia, according to MayoClinic.com. Spasms to the muscles in the pelvis can cause pain in the vulva. These spasms may also make sexual intercourse painful.
Genetics
Genetic factors may cause a woman to experience vulvodynia, according to the National Vulvodynia Association. Some women may be predisposed to pain around the vulva due to a genetic susceptibility to several factors such as widespread pain and to pain in the genitals. Difficulty fighting infections involving the vulva and vagina is another genetic factor for developing vulvodynia.
Hormones
The sex hormones in a female fluctuate during the monthly menstrual cycle. These natural hormonal changes or the hormonal changes due to the use of birth control pills may cause a woman to experience vulvodynia, according to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
