Vulvodynia is the term used to describe a vulva pain or discomfort. This can be characterized by a burning or stinging irritation of the vulva in the abscence of infection or a skin disease.

Vulvodynia is classified into the following types:

Generalized (or dysesthetic) Vulvodynia
Dysesthetic Vulvodynia may be diffuse or occur in different places at different times. Pain may be present in the labia majora, labia minora, and/or the vestibule. The pain may be constant or intermittent. Symptoms are not necessarily caused by touch or pressure to the vulva, but touch can exacerbate it.

Vulvar Vestibulitis Syndrome (VVS)
Women with VVS have pain only in the part of the vulva called vestibule, and only during or after touch. Burning sensations can occur after activities such as sex, tampon insertion, gynaecologic examination, and bicycle riding.

Cyclic Vulvovaginitis

Cyclic vulvovaginitis is characterised by burning and itching symptoms during the menstrual cycle. This can be associated with cyclical bouts of yeast infections and some have other causes for their symptoms.

Vulvar Dermatoses
There are a number of skin disorders that may cause vulval pain. These include skin allergies, contact dermatitis, lichen sclerosus, lichen simplex chronicus and lichen planus. These conditions may cause symptoms of itching and burning. Scratching the vulva and overusing topical medications may inflame the tissue, causing swelling and additional pain.