CBD for vulvodynia and endometriosis

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In the last two years, thanks to the efforts of associations and individual activists, we have increasingly heard about vulvodynia and endometriosis, two typically female conditions characterized by chronic pain.

Both conditions can seriously compromise the physical and psychological well-being of women. In this article, we will explore the symptoms and causes of these silent diseases and review some scientific articles together to understand how a CBD-based product could be helpful in supporting the body of those who suffer from them.

What is vulvodynia?

La vulvodynia, also called vulvar vestibulitis syndrome, is a disorder that causes inflammation of the nerve endings in the vulvo-vaginal area.

According to this 2020 study, the percentage affected is between the8 and 10% of women of childbearing age and not. It mainly manifests as chronic pain affecting the female genitals. The pain can extend to the entire vulva or be confined to a specific area.

is about vestibulodynia, when the pain is confined to the entrance of the vulva. Of clitorodynia, when the pain is localized in the clitoral area and of urethrodynia, when the pain is concentrated in the urethra area. And again, it is about dyspareunia, when the pain is related to penetration before, after, or during sexual intercourse.

One of the main characteristics of vulvodynia is that it manifests with symptoms of varying intensity and duration from woman to woman. This factor, along with a series of socio-cultural components that we will discuss, makes it very difficult for a woman to receive a diagnosis and causes vulvodynia to often be confused with other conditions and consequently treated incorrectly.

In Italy, a great awareness campaign is underway, and associations, activists, and influencers are fighting to urge the State and the National Health Service to finally recognize vulvodynia as a disabling and chronic disease so that essential levels of care are guaranteed to those who suffer from it.

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What are the causes of vulvodynia?

The causes of vulvodynia are not yet clear. Some believe it may be caused by nerve damage in the vulvar area, others think it is due to chronic inflammation or a hormonal problem, and some consider it to be a combination of both physical and psychological factors.

One of the main problems related to the management of this disease is the delay in diagnosis, which depends on the limited investments in research and the insufficient training of specialized medical personnel.

At the core, there seems to be a socio-cultural problem, namely the idea that women's pelvic pain is something normal and especially if it occurs during sexual intercourse, it must be endured and "normalized."

is not so. Chronic pain is never normal. Women's pelvic pain is often judged and misunderstood. This causes the condition to be accompanied by feelings of inadequacy, guilt, anxiety, and depression, especially in the pre-diagnostic phase.

The long-term goal of those who fight every day to tell the reality of this disorder is to ensure that vulvodynia is recognized as a disabling chronic illness so that those who suffer from it can benefit from appropriate treatments and healthcare services.

But what are the symptoms of vulvodynia?

The main symptoms of vulvodynia are:

Vulvar pain and burning (widespread or localized) lasting for more than 3 months
Pins and needles sensation
Burning skin sensation
Sudden cramps
Discomfort/pain when wearing tight pants
Pain during sexual intercourse
Pain during urination
Pain/discomfort that worsens after many hours of sitting

All these symptoms can also appear in cases of other disorders such as cystitis, candidiasis, vaginal herpes, and many other infections affecting the female genital area. That is why it is important to rule out all other potential conditions through specific tests before making any conclusions.

The diagnosis of vulvodynia, which must be made by a specialized gynecologist, will be made by exclusion and through the Swab test.

The Swab test is a non-invasive examination that involves checking for the presence of pain following a stimulus. This element, together with chronic vulvar pain lasting more than three months, could be fundamental factors for the diagnosis.

How is vulvodynia treated?

Because the causes are still unknown, there is no standardized therapy, but attempts are made to work on the symptoms, which, as we have said, can vary greatly from woman to woman.

Once the diagnosis has been made, the specialist will investigate the patient's lifestyle, habits, and any other possible conditions to identify the most suitable therapeutic path.

The gynecologist might choose a pharmacological therapy, a rehabilitative approach involving work on the pelvic muscles, or even a psychological approach, which in some cases can be very helpful.

These three approaches are often combined together for a more in-depth work.

Most of the drugs used for vulvodynia act on pain mediators and are also used for neuropathic pain.

What is endometriosis?

L'endometriosis is a condition that involves the presence of endometrium, which should normally be found only inside the uterus, outside of it. It can cause inflammation and pain and interfere with the normal functioning of the female genital organs.

can occur from the first menstruation, but it can also affect women who have gone through menopause.

In Italy, 10-15% of women of reproductive age suffer from it. About 3 million women have a diagnosis of endometriosis.

What are the causes and symptoms of endometriosis?

Also in this case, opinions on the causes of endometriosis vary. The most plausible hypothesis is the passage of endometrial fragments from the uterus into the fallopian tubes and from there into the abdomen during menstruation.

This hypothesis, however, does not completely rule out others; consider that in very rare cases (about 20), endometriosis has also been diagnosed in men.

Compared to vulvodynia, significant progress has been made with endometriosis. It is a condition recognized as chronic and disabling, and standardized therapy protocols exist.

The research is ongoing and it seems that a saliva test, already tested in France, capable of diagnosing it quickly, is also coming to Italy.

But what are the symptoms of endometriosis?

The most common symptoms of endometriosis are:

Dysmenorrhea - painful menstruation
Menorrhagia - heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding
Metrorrhagia - bleeding not related to the menstrual cycle
Pelvic pain
Dyspareunia - pain during penetration
Pain during urination
Infertility

To obtain a diagnosis of endometriosis, you need to consult specialized centers or gynecologists. An ultrasound or an MRI will be performed to confirm the condition.

How is endometriosis treated?

You can turn to qualified facilities and professionals who will assess the appropriate therapy. Treatments for endometriosis can vary, but generally, hormonal therapies are used, combined if necessary with anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain. In limited cases, surgery may be required.

With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the quality of life of those affected can improve significantly.

Endometriosis is a recognized condition and is included in the list of chronic and disabling diseases. In the more advanced stages, patients are granted the right to benefit from follow-up visits with exemptions; in Italy, about 300,000 people take advantage of this.

CBD for vulvodynia and endometriosis: what does science say?

A study on cannabis and symptoms of vulvodynia suggests that therapeutic cannabis can significantly reduce pain and improve the quality of life in women with vulvodynia.

This clinical research, which tested cannabinoids in cases of neurodegenerative diseases, pain, addiction, and anxiety suggests the therapeutic potential of CBD either alone or in combination with THC or with drug therapy.

Here another study that highlights how CBD can be effective in cases of pelvic pain, intestinal disorders, and mood disorders.

During this research on cannabis and pelvic pain instead, a quarter of patients with pelvic pain associated with vulvodynia and endometriosis reported sleeping better, experiencing less pain, less anxiety, and less irritability.

Finally, CBD can be a useful ally before and during sexual intercourse, used both orally and added to a lubricant to soothe pain and inflammation.

Il cannabidiolo (CBD) è un principio attivo prodotto dalle piante di canapa. Al contrario del THC, sempre presente nelle piante di cannabis sativa, il CBD non provoca effetti psicotropi. Grazie alla sua interazione con i recettori presenti nel nostro sistema endocannabinoide, da più di dieci anni viene utilizzato come opzione naturale per supportare il corpo in caso di numerosi disturbi, in particolare dolore cronico, ansia e stress.

does not cause significant side effects, but it may interact with certain medications, here a detailed insight. It is very important to consult your doctor if you are undergoing any treatment. Additionally, CBD should not be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Who deals with vulvodynia and endometriosis in Italy?

If you think you may be suffering from vulvodynia or endometriosis, the first step is to consult your trusted gynecologist or, alternatively, gynecologists specialized in vulvar diseases.

In case of severe anxiety and stress, psychological support and pelvic floor rehabilitation might be helpful; you could benefit from the work of physiotherapists specialized in chronic pelvic pain.

Furthermore, for support and information, you can contact various organizations dedicated to raising awareness and providing information about vulvodynia and endometriosis in Italy and/or patient associations. For example, the Italian Endometriosis Association, the Italian Vulvodynia Association, and the Italian Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SIGO).

Many women postpone the moment out of modesty, fear, or denial of the pain. In most cases, however, late diagnoses worsen the situation.

Don't wait.