Vulval pain

Vulval pain is a relatively common but poorly recognized condition which affects women of all ages, races and backgrounds. It should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis in a number of gynaecological presentations including superficial dyspareunia, persistent/recurrent candida and chronic vulval soreness. The diagnosis is more likely in patients with normal appearances of the vulva and poor responses to treatments that are usually effective. It is an important diagnosis to remember because it is often made late, after months and sometimes years of symptoms. For some women it is so bad that it stops them working, exercising and running their daily lives. Despite its potentially crippling effects, very little quality research has been undertaken and even achieving a diagnosis can take years.