Vulvodynia: an introduction and critical review of a chronic pain condition

Vulvodynia, or chronic vulvar discomfort, has become an increasingly recognized complaint in the medical literature. However, classification, assessment, and treatment for vulvodynia have not been universally established. There is a serious need for greater understanding of this disorder since evidence suggests, although not life-threatening, vulvodynia appears to have a significant impact on quality of life. This article reviews the medical and psychological literature on vulvodynia published since 1983, the first year vulvodynia was recognized as a diagnosis in the medical literature. The purpose of this article is to provide a review of the literature on diagnostic issues, treatment options, and psychosocial sequelae with the aim of highlighting areas in need of future research. Finally, suggestions are made for considering vulvodynia from a multidimensional, chronic pain perspective.