Definition of Vestibulitis

Vestibulitis occurs when the lesser vestibular glands become inflamed. These glands are responsible for secreting mucous. Vestibulitis may affect any of the skin around the vagina opening, but most commonly affects the lower part. This condition can occur in any woman at any time whether sexually active or not.

Symptoms

• Women with vulvar vestibulitis will have pain whenever pressure is exerted against the vagina, such as when riding a bike or wearing tight clothing. They will also feel pain when having intercourse or using tampons. They may feel a burning or stinging feeling in the affected area. In addition, they may feel the urge to urinate often.

Diagnosis

• A OB-GYN will examine the area to look for reddened and irritated skin. Also, a vaginal discharge sample will be taken to make sure that there is no infection.

Related Conditions

• Women who have vulvar vestibulitis often have also experienced yeast infections, bacterial infections and human papilloma virus. Also, women with this condition may have continual pH changes within in the vagina. The use of chemicals such as soaps, laundry detergents, lubricants and spermicides has also been linked to vulvar vestibulitis.

Symptom Relief

• According to the UI Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, A&D ointment can help soothe and heal the affected area. They also recommend using witch hazel pads and baking soda baths to reduce discomfort. In addition, lidocaine gel may be used to numb the area before intercourse.

Treatment

• Vulvas vestibulitis may be treated with steroid ointments. This ointments should be applied as directed to the affected area in order to reduce irritation and pain. In severe cases trichloroacetic acid may be used to destroy affected areas of skin so that new, healthy skin can grow back in its place. Also, severe cases may be treated with surgical or laser removal of affected skin areas.