Vulvovaginal Pain-Difficult to Diagnose; Difficult to Treat

Published on July 23, 2026

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2026 Jul 23. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000001047. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Vulvovaginal pain disorders can manifest with varying symptomology and can take years to diagnose and even longer to treat. Given the nature and location of the pain, these disorders can significantly affect interpersonal relationships and quality of life. Therapy options range from behavioral interventions to medications and minimally invasive procedures, and in rare cases surgery. The following review covers common etiologies of vulvovaginal pain, evaluation strategies, currently used treatments and promising future therapies.

PMID:42489324 | DOI:10.1097/GRF.0000000000001047