Differentiating Overlapping Symptoms of Vulvodynia and Pudendal Neuralgia

Chronic pelvic pain can be confusing, frustrating, and isolating, especially when symptoms overlap and it’s difficult to get clear answers.

Two common conditions that share similar symptoms but require different care approaches are vulvodynia and pudendal neuralgia. At Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Kierstin Beaman, DACM, often sees patients who’ve been passed between specialists without a clear diagnosis. 

Understanding the differences between these conditions is the first step toward meaningful relief. Dr. Beaman is ready to help you alleviate pelvic pain.

Understanding vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort around the opening of the vagina – known as the vulva. A diagnosis of vulvodynia comes after experiencing the pain for three months without an identifiable cause. 

Pain may be constant or come and go, and the pain can feel like burning, stinging, irritation, or rawness. Vulvodynia is often triggered by touch, such as during intercourse or while sitting for long periods.

Vulvodynia isn’t caused by an infection or dermatologic issue. Researchers believe it may be linked to nerve irritation, hormonal changes, or past trauma. At Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture, we offer acupuncture and other supportive therapies that can help regulate the nervous system, promote healing, and reduce hypersensitivity.

About pudendal neuralgia

Pudendal neuralgia occurs when the pudendal nerve, which runs from the lower back to the genitals, becomes irritated or compressed. This can lead to sharp, shooting, or electric-like pain in your genitals, rectum, or pelvis. You may notice pain worsens with sitting.

Unlike vulvodynia, pudendal neuralgia typically presents with more positional pain and may be caused by injury, surgery, or even prolonged sitting on hard surfaces. 

Getting the right diagnosis really matters, since the best treatment depends on what's actually causing the nerve irritation or pressure.

Shared symptoms and primary differences

Because both conditions affect the same general area and can present with burning, aching, or stabbing sensations, it’s easy to confuse one for the other. 

When diagnosing your pelvic pain, however, its exact location, triggers, and response to touch or pressure help guide diagnosis. Vulvodynia often involves superficial vulvar pain, while pudendal neuralgia can radiate deeper into the pelvis or rectum and worsens with prolonged sitting.

At our office, we do our best to help you get clarity on your diagnosis so you can find relief.

Integrated therapies for lasting relief

Whether you’re dealing with vulvodynia, pudendal neuralgia, or a combination of both, you don’t have to live in constant discomfort. Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture offers a range of supportive therapies designed to reduce pain, calm the nervous system, and promote long-term healing.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be an effective complementary therapy for managing vulvodynia and pudendal neuralgia by helping calm nerve irritation, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the pelvic region. By targeting specific points, acupuncture supports the nervous system and can relieve chronic pain, muscle tension, and stress often associated with these conditions. 

Frequency-specific microcurrent therapy

Frequency-specific microcurrent therapy delivers low-level electrical currents tuned to specific tissue frequencies, helping reduce inflammation, accelerate healing, and calm irritated nerves. Research supports its use, particularly for pudendal neuralgia.

Ozone therapy

By increasing oxygen at the cellular level, ozone therapy supports immune function and reduces chronic inflammation, a known contributor to both conditions.

Terahertz therapy

Terahertz therapy is a noninvasive option that uses specific wavelengths of energy to enhance cellular communication and reduce pain signals in affected tissues.

Dr. Beaman customizes each of these therapies to your individual condition and symptom pattern. When used alongside acupuncture and pelvic floor support, they can provide a powerful, natural approach to managing complex pelvic pain.

Contact us to start healing today

If you’ve been struggling with unexplained pelvic pain and suspect vulvodynia, pudendal neuralgia, or both, we’ll work with you to clarify the root cause. You’ll get the integrative tools to help you reclaim your comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

Call Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture at 651-964-3868, or book an appointment online today.