International Journal of Women's Health

The Vulvodynia Frontier: Where do we go from here?

Vulvodynia, defined as chronic vulvar pain for at least three months, is highly prevalent globally. Localized provoked vulvodynia, or vestibulodynia (VBD), is the most common presentation of this pain disorder characterized by pain with palpation of the vulvar vestibule and/or attempted vaginal penetration. Vulvodynia has been shown to significantly impact patients' quality of life. This Article Collection includes original research, review articles, and commentaries focused on vulvodynia, ranging from basic science, epidemiology, medical (topicals, medicines, physical therapy) and surgical components. The Article Collection serves as a deep dive in the epidemiology and mechanisms driving pathophysiology to allow for identification of opportunities for growth and innovation in the treatment of vulvodynia.