Question: I think I have vulvodynia. I had been on Vagifem 25 mcg. twice weekly for approximately 2 years with good results. When the pharmaceutical company decreased the dosage to 10 mcg. per dose I began to have problems. Even though my gynecologist increased the frequency to 5 times per week, I received no relief. I then also began having frequent UTI's. I have had a CAT scan, cystoscopy and catheterization. There are no stones, growths, no evidence of interstitial cystitis, no cancer as determined by a bladder wash, only evidence of past UTIs (a red and inflammed looking bladder). I was placed on 100 mg. Macrodantin daily and have had no further utis since then.

When I was examined by my gynecologist, she found a "negligible" cystocele and a 2 plus rectocele (both of which I have had for many years with no change). She did not see any signs of infection or redness or infalmmation. I have never had a bad Pap test result. Her diagnosis was vaginal atrophy (I am 64 years old). At a later date, I was seen by her nurse practitioner who did see considerable redness and prescribed Lotrisone cream with no results. She did a culture which was negative for both yeast and bacterial infection. When I asked about the possibility of vulvodynia I was handed a pamphlet and told they do not treat it. I have not been able to find any doctor in my area whose specialty is urogynecology.
My family physician has placed me on biodentical hormone replacement (I discontinued the Vagifem) - estrogen and progesterone 1 Gm. each daily taken topically and cyclically. I felt really good after about 4 days on this but now my symptoms have returned.

So far I have seen an urologist, gynecologist, acupuncturist, family practitioner and a naturopath. I have an appointment with another gynecologist in a little more than a week.

My symptoms are burning in my labia and sharp, stabbing pains in my vagina, like a spasm.

So far I have tried:
vagifem
BHRT - estrogen and progesterone
stopped swimming in chlorinated pools
put a filter on my shower head
Calendula cream
Bach Rescue Remedy cream
A and D ointment
Aloe vera gel
Vitamin E (topically)
Replens lubricant
Chinese herbs (orally and topically)
acupuncture
numerous supplements (e.g. D-Mannose, cranberry, omega 3 fatty acids, quercetin, Vitamin C, etc.)
Sitz baths with colloidal oatmeal
Sitz baths with Epsom salts
Bathing in salt water at the beach
Lotrisone cream
Decreasing oxalates in my diet
Washing my clothes in fragrance-free, allergen-free detergent and triple rinsing
Switching to organic, bleach feee toilet paper
Rinsing vaginal area with cool water after urinating
Meditation, prayer, healing services
Cold compresses
All the usual common sense things I have practiced all my life such as wiping front to back, cotton underwear, sleeping with a bare bottom, good hygiene practices, no tight clothing, etc.

I am miserable and desperate as this has been going on for about 4 months now.