Understanding Vulvodynia: How Pelvic Physiotherapy Can Help

Introduction

Living with persistent pain is frustrating, but when the pain is in such an intimate area, it can feel especially isolating. Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort of the vulva without a clear medical cause. It may feel like burning, stinging, irritation, or rawness — and it can affect everything from sitting comfortably to enjoying intimacy.

At Milton Pelvic Physiotherapy, our team specializes in helping women manage and overcome vulvodynia with compassionate, evidence-based care. You don’t have to suffer in silence — pelvic physiotherapy offers real strategies to reduce pain and restore quality of life.

What Is Vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia is defined as vulvar pain lasting 3 months or longer without an identifiable cause such as infection or skin condition. It can be:

• Generalized: pain across the vulva, constant or intermittent

• Localized: pain in a specific area, often at the vaginal opening

• Provoked: triggered by touch, intercourse, tampon use, or clothing

• Spontaneous: occurring without touch or pressure

It is estimated that up to 16% of women may experience vulvodynia at some point, yet many go undiagnosed or untreated.

How Pelvic Physiotherapy Helps Vulvodynia

Pelvic physiotherapists are uniquely trained to assess and treat the muscles, nerves, and tissues that influence vulvar pain. Treatment may include:

• Pelvic floor muscle relaxation training - Many women with vulvodynia have overactive pelvic floor muscles that remain tense. Learning how to relax and retrain these muscles is often the first step to reducing pain.

• Gentle manual therapy - Techniques to release tight muscles, reduce trigger points, and improve blood flow in the pelvic floor and surrounding areas.

• Desensitization strategies - Step-by-step exercises using breathwork, relaxation, and gradual touch to help the nervous system reduce pain signals.

• Postural and movement strategies - Addressing how sitting, standing, or exercise habits may contribute to irritation.

• Education & self-care Guidance on vulvar hygiene, clothing, lubricants, and lifestyle modifications to support healing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vulvodynia

Is vulvodynia curable? While there is no single “cure” for vulvodynia, many women experience significant improvement and even full resolution of symptoms with the right treatment plan. Pelvic physiotherapy, combined with medical support where needed, can greatly reduce pain and restore quality of life.

Do I need a referral to see a pelvic physiotherapist? In Ontario, you do not need a physician’s referral to see a pelvic physiotherapist. However, some extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. Our team at Milton Pelvic Physiotherapy can guide you through this process.

What happens during my first appointment? Your first visit is one-on-one in a private treatment room. We’ll discuss your symptoms, review your health history, and complete an assessment at your pace. Any internal exam is completely optional and only done with your consent. Many effective treatment strategies exist without one.

How long does treatment take? Every case is unique. Some women notice improvement within 3–4 sessions, while others require longer care depending on how long symptoms have been present and how severe they are. Your physiotherapist will set realistic goals with you.

Can vulvodynia affect intimacy? Yes — vulvodynia often makes intercourse painful, which can strain relationships. Pelvic physiotherapy offers strategies to reduce pain, restore muscle coordination, and support more comfortable intimacy.

Why Choose Milton Pelvic Physiotherapy?

We understand that vulvodynia is not just a physical condition — it can affect confidence, relationships, and emotional health. That’s why our approach is:

• Compassionate and confidential: You’ll always feel heard and respected.

• Individualized: Every plan is tailored to your unique symptoms and goals.

• Evidence-based: We use the latest research to guide treatment.

• Collaborative: We work closely with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care.

Our team has advanced training in treating vulvodynia and other pelvic pain conditions. Patients in Milton and the surrounding area trust us because pelvic health is not just a service we offer — it is a specialty we are dedicated to.

Taking the First Step

If you are experiencing vulvar pain, know that you are not alone and that help is available. Pelvic physiotherapy can make a significant difference in reducing pain and restoring comfort.

👉 Call 905-876-8885 or book your appointment online with Milton Pelvic Physiotherapy today.