Causes & Risk Factors for Vulvar Vestibulitis Syndrome

According to the Women's Therapy Center, "the vulvar vestibule is that area of the female vulva (genitals) that is within the inner lips (labia minora), where the entrance to the urethra (the tube that leads to the bladder) and the vagina can be found." Symptoms of vulvar vestibulitis syndrome include severe pain from pressure, redness, burning, irritation, tenderness and frequent urination. According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, vulvar vestibulitis syndrome can affect women of any age, regardless of whether they are sexually active.

Causes

The cause of vulvar vestibulitis syndrome is debated. According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, the cause is not known, but studies are being done. On the other hand, the Women's Therapy Center states that certain factors may cause vulvar vestibulitis syndrome. These factors include insufficient hydration and lubrication, sexual practice, hormones, structural factors, allergies or substance sensitivity and emotional stress.

Disease Risk Factors

Certain diseases put a woman at risk for developing vulvar vestibulitis syndrome. According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, women who have yeast infections and bacterial infections are at higher risk. The university points out that women who have chronic infections have the greatest risk. Besides yeast and bacterial infections, women who have human papillomavirus, or HPV, also have an increased risk of developing vulvar vestibulitis syndrome.

Other Risk Factors

Other risk factors for vulvar vestibulitis syndrome involve chronic changes in the vaginal pH levels. Changes in the acid-base levels in the woman's vagina can be caused by yeast and bacterial infections. In addition, using certain chemicals or irritants can put a woman at risk of developing vulvar vestibulitis syndrome, according to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Examples of potentially irritating products are lubricants, spermicides, soaps and detergents. To reduce their risk, women should be careful of what products they use near their vagina.