# What is the difference between vulvodynia and vulvovaginitis? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-vulvodynia-and-vulvovaginitis Language: en Category: womens_health Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.557Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.557Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-vulvodynia-and-vulvovaginitis Vulvodynia and vulvovaginitis differ primarily in the nature and cause of the condition. Vulvodynia is a chronic pain disorder affecting the vulva, the external part of the female genitalia, characterized by sharp, burning, or stinging pain without a clear cause or visible infection. In contrast, vulvovaginitis is an inflammation or infection affecting both the vulva and the vagina, typically resulting from specific factors such as bacterial or fungal infections or allergies, often manifesting with symptoms like redness, itching, and discharge. ## Understanding Vulvodynia Vulvodynia is a condition characterized by severe pain, burning, and stinging in the vulvar area; this pain may be constant or intermittent. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, though researchers are working to better understand it. Potential causes may include irritation or injury to the vulvar nerves, hormonal changes, an overreaction of vulvar cells to infection or injury, the presence of extra nerve fibers in the vulva, pelvic floor muscle weakness, sensitivity to certain chemicals, or genetic factors that cause hypersensitivity to infection or inflammation [\[1\]](). It is important to note that sexually transmitted diseases do not cause this condition [\[1\]](). Vulvodynia presents in two main types: localized vulvodynia, where pain is in only one area of the vulva, usually the vaginal opening (vestibule), and is often caused by pressure on the area. The second type is generalized vulvodynia, where pain occurs in various areas of the vulva and is somewhat constant with periods of relief [\[1\]](). Symptoms may include sharp pain, burning, itching, or throbbing, and symptoms may be exacerbated by sitting for long periods or wearing tight clothing [\[1\]](). ## Understanding Vulvovaginitis Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation or infection that affects both the vulva and the vagina. Unlike vulvodynia, vulvovaginitis often has known and specific causes. Common causes include fungal infections (such as yeast infections), bacterial infections, atrophic vaginitis (which occurs due to estrogen deficiency after menopause), and allergies to specific products such as soaps, perfumes, or detergents [\[2\]](). Some sexually transmitted diseases can also cause vulvovaginitis [\[2\]](). Symptoms of vulvovaginitis usually include redness, itching, pain, and sometimes skin cracking [\[2\]](). There may also be abnormal vaginal discharge, an unpleasant odor, or pain during urination or intercourse. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation and may include antifungal medications, antibiotics, or topical steroid creams [\[2\]](). ## Diagnosis and Treatment To diagnose vulvodynia, a doctor performs a physical exam and asks about medical history. Tests may be conducted to rule out other potential causes of pain, such as urinary tract infections, fungal infections, or skin conditions [\[1\]](). Vulvodynia is diagnosed only after all other potential causes have been excluded [\[1\]](). Treatment typically involves a combination of medications such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and topical creams, in addition to physical therapy, pelvic floor exercises, and cognitive behavioral therapy [\[1\]](). In some cases, surgery may be an option for women with localized vulvodynia who have not responded to other treatments [\[1\]](). For vulvovaginitis, diagnosis is based on symptoms, a physical exam, and collecting a sample of vaginal discharge for analysis to determine the cause [\[2\]](). Once the cause is identified, treatment is directed specifically toward it, which typically leads to symptom relief. It is important to see a doctor when any of these symptoms appear to receive the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment. For more information about common vulvar disorders, you can visit [Common Vulvar Disorders (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Vulvodynia]() - [Vulvar Disorders]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-vulvodynia-and-vulvovaginitis#answer