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CommentWelcome to the thirteenth vulvodynia guestbook and a thank you to all for your continued participation and willingness to share your experiences with each other.
CommentWell, here is another book. I want to personally say thank you to all who have contributed to this, for my own sake. This sight has helped me more than any other sight that I have found. Good luck to each and every one of you and kudos to the men that are involved in our lives. They desirve it! Thanks--------Crystal--------
CommentHave any of you had problems with the skene glan?,I was told I have a cyst on the glan. I did acupuncture and herbs inserted with a tampax. I was pain free for 6 monthes. Now the pain has returned, I am receiving acupuncture and it is helping,however not 100%. The first incident, I saw a urologist, the first time he diagnosed my problem, vaginal pain, as a cyst on a skene glan. After one month treatment from my acupunturist. I went back to the urologist for a follow up and they said the cyst was gone. So, for 6 months I was pain free. Now the pain is back , not as bad. I need to hear from anyone else on this. Also I am using my own salve of St John's wort oil and calendula oil combined with beeswax. This is suppose to sooth nerve tissues. Really seems to help. I make it myself. If anyone wants to order any from me. I am selling salves and cremes made from herbs. $15.00 for 2 ounces. Thanks Vjmoon
CommentHi again fellow sufferer's. I'm just wondering for those of you who have mostly itching. Do your symptoms seem to be worse in the afternoon, evening and at night time. After I get up and take my shower (previously using regular soap) in the morning the itching doesn't usually bother me until the late afternoon--unless I'm having a really, really bad day. It sometimes wakes me up at night though--when it's definately at it's worst. I'm trying to think what might make it worse as the day goes on. Anyone have any thoughts?? Teri
CommentI just found this information and I feel like I need to sit here long enough to read every printed item on the subject. I've had this problems for years and have been treated basically for all kinds of things, basically with very little relief. It always comes back, it affects my joints all over my body in addition to the specific area noted. I recently got into a clinic at the Washington Hospital Center and have just started the therapy program. I am ecstatic to find a support group of this type and hope to find some relief here too. Thank you very much! M.D'Angelo
CommentHi ladies. This is the first time I am writing in so I hope I do it correctly. I have suffered for over 8 years with vulvodynia. After lengthy discussion with a Rheumotologist I have become friendly with, I really think I have the possible answer, not cure, to what is causing our problem. Let me first say that this is directed at vulvodynia sufferers who are actually red in the areas that hurt. Look at yourself with a mirror, there should be increased redness in the area that is closest to the entrance of the vagina, and possibly up to the clitoris. Most likely the redness is not as severe or nonexistant on the lips of the vulva farthest from the vaginal opening. I have firmly believed that this is actually a STD. It is unidentified, or considered normal flora when it is actually not normal. Chlamydia was considered normal flora not long ago. I used to think it was a tissue infection of the vulva. Now, I believe that our discharge is full of interleukins. Interleukins are part of our bodies defense mechanism, rather an integrel part of the immone system. For instance, interleukin-1 is associated with fever. Another example more relavant to our situation is when a women gets Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), an abundant amount of interleukins are produced. They actually cause horrible symptoms in the mouth---far away from where the infection originated--the mouth sores are one of the first signs of TSS. I believe our infections are in the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, urinary track, etc. The discharge, and possibly our urine has these interleaukins and it causes irritation and inflammation. That is why the vulva has such a specific pattern of redness, it is where discharge sits. If you have visible discharge on your vulva when you look at it, take note of whether or not it is right where you hurt. Or during your period, look at where the blood sits. I think this is why rinsing yourself when you have your period or after you urinate can significantly help. In fact, when I was at my worst I had to wear tampons. The blood and whatever else was coming out of me was very painful. I had doctors suggest not using tampons, but honestly it was way better with them. I suffered from pain around my anus too. I was taught very well when I was a little girl to wipe from front to back. I probably smear the interleukin filled discharge (it doesn't need to be excessive discharge) from my vulva back to my anus every time I wipe. My suggestion is this, rinse every time you urinate, soak in a tub at least once a day for at least five minutes (of course don't use bubbles), do not use bar soap use liquid, try using tampons daily (changing every 4 to 6 hours as recommended) to stop the discharge from getting on the vulva. Within 4 days you should feel a significant difference. I will tell you that I feel 98% better on certain antibiotics: augmentin and doxicycline, and the combination of augmentin and flagyl together is miraculous, almost all of the redness goes away, I become aroused, everything works properly. The problem is I have not found the perfect combination to cure me. If you have a sexual partner there is the added problem that he may be infected too. Try my suggestion for a few days. I am very interested to know if people have success with this, please email me. I do not visit this website much because it breaks my heart, and stirs up my rage with the medical establishment. Jennifer
CommentI also have been suffering from vulvodynia for 6 years now ,but only found out last month what was going on with me. I thank GOD for my best friend who found this site.I have been to see 5 doctors who had no answers for all the pain I was having . Now even though I have sadly learned that thier is no cure, I can only pray for a little relif. Is their anyone in the Atlanta area who is suffering from this ? PLEASE CONTACT ME !! THANK YOU!
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CommentComments: MY FIRST VISIT HERE I have come across the term vulvodynia only 4 days ago, when I read a short article in the "Prevention", July issue. It correctly described my symptoms, and I proceeded to check out the website of the NVA, and read all your wonderful information,Dr. Glaser. Thank you! Many items describe my symptoms and I am so glad that there is a "name" for it, my OBGYN was no help when I saw him a year ago. However, I saw him again today, and brought him some of the information about the condition which I printed out for him from the websites. But of course, he gave me very little of his time. He did, however, take a smear and will let me know his findings. I am 52 and have had recurrent yeast infections since my early twenties, with long periods of remissions, primarily during my two pregnanies. 2 years ago, I had a laporoscopically assisted vaginal, bilateral salphingo-oophorectomy. Since then, I have been on premarin, estrace, and now the climara patch. It was my hope, that my yeast would end with the hysterectomy. I also started a low carbohydrate, increased protein diet 6 months ago (NO SUGAR). However, for about a year now, I am having recurring, at least 1x/month, sometimes more frequently, burning, itching and inflammation around the vulva, but no yeast-like discharge. Using Monistat takes it away, but it always returns within a couple of weeks. There seems to be no relationship to sexual activity, hygiene, stress, diet, etc. Could I have developed a hypersensitivity to Monistat? I am also using aloa vera gel around the vulva, and sometimes Premarin cream to control the burning and dryness. My OBGYN gave me a prescription today for Diflucan and Maxiflor cream. I will let you know what develops, in the meantime, thanks for this great website, I'm just beginning to explore it!
CommentRe:vjmoon and Teri.....first of all I would like to address the issue of vjmoon soliciting on this site-shame on you! If you indeed have discovered something that will help others and it's a home-made recipe,why not just share that recipe with others at no cost? teri-hi...hope you feel better soon.I always suggest to others to NOT take baths....AT ALL No matter how clean you think your tub is-there is till going to be residue of some type that can and will get in and on the vaginal area.I loved my baths too-so I must say it was quite disconcerting to me to give them up for showers.But I'm now used to showering instead and believe me it has made like 100% difference.I also don't use soap on the vaginal area AT all.After urinating if you will take a bottle of water and spray the area instead of wiping with tissue,that seems to help a lot.Be very careful of the type washing powder you are using and if you can-rerinse your clothes.Make sure your washer is working properly too.It never occurred to me that mine wasn't.But after getting my VV pain under control for over a year(doing the things I suggested to you) it suddenly flared up again.I wasn't sure why...well after a couple of weeks I went to my washer while it was going and happened to open the lid and it was not agitating.I was shocked.So what I'm getting at is-if the washer isn't properly agitating and getting the clothes washed and rinsed correctly then there is sure to be a residue on them.And of course as any other sufferer will tell you-avoid underwear when at all possible.Especially on days the itching,burning,pain,etc. are bothering you.Long dresses and skirts are now my fashion statement.If I do wear shorts,I limit the time I have them on...same for slacks.I wore a pair of shorts for just a short time a few days ago,and they were not tight or of a rather real short cut either,and in just a few minutes I could really feel the pain beginning. It's unfortunate that we endure this but until "something" else comes along we must continue to be a support for each other and do the "trial and error" thing to see what does or doesn't work for each individual.
CommentIn response to Jennifer's comment on 6/15/00. I hope that this is not an STD. I've been tested over an over again, for every STD known to man. It scares me to think that this could have been given to me by someone. Although, how could it be an STD if vulvodynia symptoms can present themselves even during adolescence? However, your idea about the discharged sounds logical. I don't know. I feel so depressed about this problem. I definitely don't want to go back to thinking that I do have an STD, or HIV, etc. I don't want to have to test over and over again, nor go through the turmoil of waiting for results. I guess I just have to do what works best for me.
CommentI would like to second what RG said. It is insulting enough having corporations post loosely disguised soft-sells ("showing my husband I'm a woman again," etc.) but to offer an actual product, up front, on a free site is ridiculous and is probably illegal since if someone had an allergic reaction and sued you, the owners of this site would also be liable. Oh, and by the way, fellow sufferers, is anyone interested in a used BMW? How about a sublet?
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CommentDoes anyone like me have terrible bladder pain as well as vestibulitis?Istill have the V.V but the bladder pain has been enormously improved with a therapy called Total Body Modification.I Received this in England but believe it to be widely available in America.See internet for contact numbers. Hope this helps somebody else.
CommentI have recently been diagnosed with Vulvodynia at the age of 20 but have had it since I was 16. I am still in the early stages of treatment. But if it weren't for this site I wouldn't have known anything about it. It has been a great source of knowledge. And I wish luck to anyone out there with Vulvodynia.
CommentHas anyone sued their HMO for Bio-feedback and pelvic floor muscle rehab and won? I'm having a difficult time with my insurance and medical group. They referred me to counseling to solve this problem. I'm really disgusted that someone in such pain should have to go through these additional problems with getting proper health care. If you have the name of a good attorney let me know Karen K
CommentI was diagnosed with vvd 8 years ago. I am 31 and still live with pain. I have tried everything from medications to physical therapy to creams and the list goes on. I am better then I was several years ago and I never give up hope. I have a doctor that tries to help as much as possible. I just stared using the estrace cream to see if it would work for me. I saw that some woman in the guest book where using it so I thought I would give it a shot. Like many other woman it took awhile to find out what was wrong with me and what to do about it. through the years I have gone from feeling really bad to not so bad and back again it feels like a roller coaster most of the time. I have a 21/2 year old son and my husband which has been pretty supportive through this terrible diease.I pray every day for a cure. It really helps to see I'm not alone with this awful painful diease,I never new there was so many women in the same boat as me please feel free to e-mail, me I have never talked to anyone else with this diease before. Thanks for listening.
CommentHelp and Hurray! Just found a name for what has been "my pain" for 13 years. Have had Novocaine injections, Alcohol injections, a full (everything) hysterectomy, been to pain clinics and not had any relief, and no name for this, finally found a name and a full description of all my problems. I had begun to feel like a hypochondriac, but the pain has been so real, for so long. It has been most embarassing to try to tell people why I haven't been able to do lots of things (riding in a car for long trips, working , etc.) This "pain" has so limmited my life and yet I look "healthy as a horse". Please send me any info. that you might have of knowledgeable physicians here in Massachusetts (general Boston area). I will do ANYTHING, to get away from this chronic left side only. burning, stinging, stabbing, incredibly sore portion of my anatomy. Worse,when seated for even short time, when lying down, it kills, best when standing, then only left side of abdomen near hip and pubic bone aches, terribly. I have been diagnosed with spastic bowel syndrome, and take Dicyclomine which was supposed to help, but hasn't, and at a local pain clinic was put on 75mgs Nortriptyline, which was supposed to help, but hasn't and its been a year plus on that. Also take a lot of high blood pressure meds. as well as Estrogenhs. Please send any info you can, and I will make sure that my Dr. gets it, and becomes familiar with this, as I now know, I'm not alone out here. Thanks for listening. Nancy
CommentJess, I do not think you should have more STD testing. The STD's they test for are not what you have. I believe they have either not isolated the right bacteria yet, or they are considering a pathogenic bacteria to be normal flora. Chlamydia was thought to be normal flora in the vagina up until 15 years ago. Dr.'s thought stomach ulcers were due to stress, and spicy food. One particular doctor said for YEARS that he was curing his stomach ulcer patients with antibiotics, no one in the madical establishment wanted to believe him, because there was no PROOF. Finally, a study was done and they isolated H. Pylori. Now, it is believed that 80% of ulcers are caused by this bacteria. When you have a standard culture done at the doctors office they don't grow the anaerobes. Anaerobic bacteria is what I feel is the culprit. That is why many women feel better on doxicycline. The women that complain that they developed vulvodynia after taking long-term antibiotics I believe were infected all along and the antibiotic was keeping the bacteria at bay. Like when teenagers take tetracycline for acne. As I said in my original posting I do not have the cure. Although, I believe it is bacterial, I don't know what drug, how many times a day, for how long. It is just that I am afraid this possibility is being sorely overlooked by the medical establishment. If you ever feel as though you want good bacterial cultures done see Dr. Attila Toth in N.Y.C. He has a lab on the premises that is very well respected. His number is 212-717-4444. He believes that this could be caused by infection. He is primarily concerned with fertility, but he is an OBGYN and an Infectious Disease doctor. Also, I wanted to say again that this is directed towards people with redness and irritation at the entrance of the vagina primarily. If your vulva pain is due to a muscle or nerve problem you would most likely not have these symptoms, and the biofeedback and exercises are probably effective for you. Jennifer
CommentWow!! I finally have a name for this terrible pain that has had me incompacitated for over 2 years. I have not been able to sit at work, have intercourse or function normally for so long. I have been tested for STD in the world , multiple times. Each time the tests are so painful because of the exam. Has anyone had this condition arise from the use of an over the counter yeast infection medicine? I can track the onset of this back over 2 years ago to a day that i used Vagistat to treat a yeast infection that had me climbing the walls. After using the medication, I wanted to scream it hurt so much. I was out of work for 3 days and have never been the same since. Since that time, i have had recurring pain, bacterial infections, yeast infections and basically complete trauma to my entire vulvar/vaginal area. I finally went to another doctor this past week and she diagnosed me within 2 minutes beginning the exam. I have just started using the lidocane and have taken one dose of the amnitriptolene. I hope that this helps. Does anyone know about the effectiveness of the low oxiant diet? This is all new to me, I hope you can help me gain some insight. I just want it to end and get back to my life. Thanks.
CommentI never hear of anyone talking about perineoplasty surgery. Has anyone else besides me heard of this? I am having this procedure done on 7-13. I will let everyone know how it turns out.
CommentFollowing the Low Oxalate Diet and taking Lorazepam for the burning pain helps me. Try it! It may work for you.
CommentThis a very interesting site. I have suffered for 8 years with this affliction. My internist asked me to research it so that, I can provide her with valuable information on treating my pain and soreness. I look forward to trying some of the treatments.
CommentHI TERI!! You know, I do think we are the only people on this guestbook who suffer primarily from itching. ANYONE ELSE SUFFER PRIMARILY FROM ITCHING?? Have you ever brushed up against stinging nettle? That's what I feel like all the time externally. Anyways. I just wanted to throw something out there... I have had this since elementary school, at least fifteen years. I treated myself since no one would take me seriously, probably from fourteen years old to 22 years old with over the counter stuff. Nothing changed much, I used o.t.c. creams, vaginex, vagisil, etc. These helped immensely. At 23 years old, (I'm 25 now), I went to a specialist in vvd. They told me to stop what I was doing and gave me some other treatments. After over a decade of no changes in my symptoms, after using what they gave me, things got worse!!! How many of us actually get relief from the medical world and how many of us end up worse? Just curious. I also wanted to say I have an awesome ob/gyn office I go to. It is so nice to have a medical staff who takes me seriously. They are not who I see for vvd, I see them for the regular stuff. It is so nice to get sympathy from a doctor/nurse instead of condemnation or disbelief. I found out there is another patient there who has vvd. I told the nurse/midwife who I've been seeing to refer her to this site. I hope she finds it. This site is so bittersweet. I treasure all you ladies out there. Although we've never met, we've been through a lot together, if you know what I mean. How about next month or so, someone posts an entry with a cure for us all. Wouldn't that be heaven... Sometimes I get so depressed. You'll have to excuse this silly entry, I'm sitting here at my keyboard with tears running down my cheeks, sipping a gin and tonic trying to take the edge off the itching so I can sleep later. This is unlike me, I can usually cope really well. I'm just so sick of it. I feel so hopeless now. I've got a lot of years left (hopefully) and I don't want to live them like this. I'm young! I'm supposed to be running around with my baby having fun! I want a big family, but will I be able to handle all the activity and busy-ness that comes along with that? I want to play with my baby boy, I want to take him on bike rides, or at least long walks to the park. I want to take him to the beach in the summers without my bathing suit killing me down there. I want to be able to make love to my husband anytime I want. I want to be able to go camping and hiking with my husband. It's his dream to take me to the Adirondak (sp?) mountains for a week and rough it. And as much as I appreciate this site, I don't want to spend all my nights desparately searching for help. I want my life to be normal. Today was a bad day, can you tell? The itching is horrendous. It hasn't ceased at all today. We visited my in-laws today for father's day. It was bad, I laid down on the sofa almost all day. My mother in law knows about this, she is a wonderful mom-in-law and friend whom I love very much. She was happy to tend to my baby so I just rested and sat still, which was nice, but i would rather have been playing with them. Well, now I have been rambling... I'm afraid I'll be emberassed when I read this tomorrow. Oh well. Thanks ladies for letting me vent. I better end this post and get to bed. Mornings here come early lately. My eleven month old thinks he needs to wake up with the sunrise. Thank you all for your understanding and support.
CommentThis is in regards to Rebekah, I too have suffered for 8 years. Yse, it is a day by day existence, and you have to be brave. I have had so many surgeries, creams, yeast meds, which I am again on and which by the second day I swear I WILL NEVER USE AGAIN. I is like a merrygo round..... I have used testosterone creams, Efudex at the beginning....nothing helps....except ice packs at night. I am so glad I found this sight...I too believe that there is something in the discharge that has irritants present.
Commenti wanted to find out whether anyone out there had tried taking a tricyclic called something like dothiapine (i can't quite remember the name!) or other tricylics, and whether they were helpful. i've been taking 50mg / day for nearly two months, and the only thing that seems to be happening is i feel a lot more tired and have really weird dreams! i also wanted to know if anyone else finds their pain is affected by what they wear. i usually only feel pain on penetration, but if i wear poly/cotton sweat pants or other synthetic fabrics (even with cotton underwear) i start to burn. does this happen to anyone else?
CommentRe: Rebekah(sp) I'm so so sorry you are having such a bad time of it. I've been there too.Never feel ashamed to post what you feel..I'm sure we all can relate.Don't give up hope either. I too go through times when I feel like just giving up.....but then I have a period of time when I feel better and I really appreciate the good days.Have you read as many of the past guestbooks as possible to try and find a solution that perhaps some of us have tried? When I first found this site...I read every single post. Of course at that time..I believe there were only 3 guestbooks.Wow-look how many more have been added ....it boggles the mind that there is so much suffering going on with this awful disease/disorder......whatever we call it.But-really-try to go back and read every post....surely someone has posted "something" that could help you. Hope you feel better....mentally & Physically very soon.
CommentHello ladies, Thank you for your encouragement. I usually don't break down like that, I'm a pretty stable person, but yesterday was tough. Today was much better and I'm back to myself again. I appreciate all of you so much! Rebekah
CommentRe: Rebekah......good-glad to know you feel some better today. Been there-done that....Many times.Some days,when the pain has been tormenting me I feel so incapable of handling anything and just want to give up. I'll be thinking,"How much longer can I go on this way????" This too shall pass though,and I'll have a LOT of good days.I've now really come to appreciate the good days.I continue to think of this disorder as being completely unfair....I thought after having my kids,raising them, having a hysterectomy,that all the good times lay ahead for my husband & I.I was never a sex fiend by any stretch of the imagination....but hey if we want to have sex with our husbands-should not we be able to???? Also I guess I stay a bit pissed at the AMA because ladies we know in our hearts that if this were a problem affecting MEN-the AMA would not stop till a cure was found.When those d*** Viagra commercials come on TV-I leave the room or turn the channel....they get me soooooo peeved.
CommentHi Ladies, Was wondering if any of you ever used a cream like benedryl that you applied to the area directly. I know that some have tried allergy pills. But I never see or hear the question of using the cream directly on the vagina. I don't even know if it exists but I know they have a spray. I have tried so many things, and you all know I go to acupunture treamtments and I take herbs and I think they help. But I still have pain and swelling, some days worse then others. And I was wondering if this method was tried and if there was any relief felt from it. Lauren
CommentHi Ladies-I would like to know how many of you would be interested in contributing to a fund that would allow us to place a large ad. in a medical journal that is very popular in the medical community. (As well as placing an ad. in a national newspaper.) I am thinking about an OPEN LETTER type of ad., that expreses our "outrage" at being virtually ignored in the research community, and well the entire medical community. I don't have a draft set up yet, so the correct words would have to be drawn up at a later time. But some of us that talk via email on a regular basis have been discussing this possibility. What is definetely necessary however is posting of names at the end of this letter and the cities you are from. No address's or phone numbers or email address's either. But you must be willing to use your full name. This is a serious matter. Please let me know what you think. I think there are enough of us out there that even if each only contributed $1 we would raise enough capital for this ad. Please send me your thoughts ASAP. Lauren
CommentHi Ladies. I placed an entry in the 12th guestbook on 5 June detailing all my symptoms the treatments tried and the failures which resulted. I also mentioned how I am now trying hypnotherapy to help deal with previous stresses in my life (obviously including the vv). Well, I have only had one session recently, my next will be on 30 June, and I feel wonderful. My love-making with my husband has been pain free and I reach orgasm easier each time. I'll keep my entry short and sweet this time as I know there's lots to read on the guestbooks. From what I have read recently a few of you have mentioned about how your pelvic floor muscle/s are very tight and you're interested in massage to try and eleviate the problem. Some have mentioned how stress increases the vv symptoms. I too suffered with both these problems. Hypnotherapy relaxes your mind and body totally in a very powerful way and has most definately helped me. I thought pain-free and enjoyable sex was a thing of the past, but to my delight it isn't. I feel so sad that you are all going from cream to cream or drug to drug, or even worse, contemplating surgery, or had surgery which hasn't worked. Hypnotherapy is drug, cream and surgery-free, so why not give it a go? Some may think there is some sort of stigma attached to this therapy, that it indicates it's all in the head, but hell, so what, if it happens to work isn't that better than going from doc to doc and treatment to treatment, continually not seeing any improvement. And OK, the hypnotherapy may not be a permanent "cure", but if it means I need a monthly or quarterly "maintenance" visit, I'll take it. I feel so strongly about this as I have finally found something which gets rid of my suffering. I hope you will give it a try. All the best, ladies.
CommentI thought I might take this opportunity to share my good news story with everyone. I suffered from what I believe was vvd since Christmas last year. It wasn't constant - it would flare up just before my period and continue through it and a few days after. I didn't know what to do. I had never been sexually active and never had so much as a yeast infection before. I then did some searching on the internet and found this site. At first I was reluctant to see a doctor as from what I'd read here many of them don't know what vvd is and so I suffered until May. Finally then I told a friend and she convinced me to see my GP. She did some tests on me and could find no indication of infections. She hadn't heard of vvd but I gave her some articles on it and the FAQ from this site and she said perhaps the best option to start with was tricyclic antidepressents. So she put me on 10mg of amitriptyline and I also started taking Vitamin E everyday and Evening Primrose Oil when I was pre-menstrual. This was in May and since then I've been more or less fine. 2 periods have come and gone with no pain. I don't know whether it's the amitriptyline or the supplements or just luck but all I care about is that my pain is gone. I have had 1 or 2 days where I've had some pain but it seems that if I take the EPO it gets better. I have had no side-effects from the medication either as it's such a low dose and my doctor said that I can always increase it if I get more pain. Also she knows of another doctor here who specialises in treating vulvar and vaginal disorders so that's good. But the thing is - I can never feel completely cured. Everytime I feel even a twinge in that area I think that maybe I'm coming down with another attack. And then I think that if I think too much about it it may make it worse. But I'm just taking each day as it comes and enjoying the fact that for the first time in months I'm pain-free and don't have to dread getting my period. I really hope that all you other women with this horrible condition find a cure for it. Awareness is the first step - don't be afraid to write to magazines or talk to doctors about it. The more people know about vvd the more likely it is that a cure will be found. Sorry for the extremely long post but as you can see I had a lot to say. :-)
CommentLauren, I would be willing to contribute money as well as my name and city to your ad.
CommentHi everyone. I have been reading through this web site for quite some time and I have found it very helpful. I live in Ontario and I have been recently referred to a Clinic in Ottawa. At that point I will be deciding if I want to have the operation or not. I was wondering if there is anyone else out there in Ontario who has had the operation and if so, the results. Please e-mail me if you have any information that would be helpful. Thank you.
CommentWORKED FOR ME. I have never viewed this website until today. I am glad I stumbled upon it. I am 28 years old. Approximately 5 years ago, I started with the symptoms of vulvadynia. I don't need to tell all of you about the symptoms. But, the main symptom intense burning and redness in the vaginal area. I don't even remember when it began. It seems like so long ago, I saw approximately 8-10 doctors. Over a course of approx. 4 years, I tried every remedy. I tried bcp, topical and hormonal and vaginal creams, antianxiety and antidepressants, antibiotics, bath salts, physical therapy, TENS unit, dilators, douches, vaginal skin peels, oral and cream steroids, relaxation techniques, homeopathic physician, heat and cold applications, aloe vera, low oxolate diet, calcium citrate, and the list goes on. One day (I was on St. Johns Wart everyday) I had a cup of CHAMOMILE tea at a family members house. I noticed a decrease in my symptoms and told my husband. Willing to try anything. I investigated the uses of Chamomile. I had to help myself, no one else did. I started by taking Chamomile 355mg capsules (2caps 3 times a day). I adjusted as needed until I was only taking 1 a day. This lasted a couple of months. I don't know if this was it or not? But, I do not take anything now. I have been painfree for over 2 years. I always thank GOD for sending me whatever the cure was? I remember begging for a vacation trip with no pain, intercourse with my husband, or being able to wear a simple pair of blue jeans everyone takes for granted. I was there once, too. I pray for a cure for each and everyone of you who cry while the shower runs so your husband or boyfriend doesn't hear you. Thank you to all of the supportive family members, husbands, boyfriends etc. I did let the National Vulvadynia Assoc. know about my findings years ago. We are behind in technology and got the internet 2weeks ago. Thought I would look this topic up. I will pray for all of you for a cure!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
CommentWORKED FOR ME. I have never viewed this website until today. I am glad I stumbled upon it. I am 28 years old. Approximately 5 years ago, I started with the symptoms of vulvadynia. I don't need to tell all of you about the symptoms. But, the main symptom intense burning and redness in the vaginal area. I don't even remember when it began. It seems like so long ago, I saw approximately 8-10 doctors. Over a course of approx. 4 years, I tried every remedy. I tried bcp, topical and hormonal and vaginal creams, antianxiety and antidepressants, antibiotics, bath salts, physical therapy, TENS unit, dilators, douches, vaginal skin peels, oral and cream steroids, relaxation techniques, homeopathic physician, heat and cold applications, aloe vera, low oxolate diet, calcium citrate, and the list goes on. One day (I was on St. Johns Wart everyday) I had a cup of CHAMOMILE tea at a family members house. I noticed a decrease in my symptoms and told my husband. Willing to try anything. I investigated the uses of Chamomile. I had to help myself, no one else did. I started by taking Chamomile 355mg capsules (2caps 3 times a day). I adjusted as needed until I was only taking 1 a day. This lasted a couple of months. I don't know if this was it or not? But, I do not take anything now. I have been painfree for over 2 years. I always thank GOD for sending me whatever the cure was? I remember begging for a vacation trip with no pain, intercourse with my husband, or being able to wear a simple pair of blue jeans everyone takes for granted. I was there once, too. I pray for a cure for each and everyone of you who cry while the shower runs so your husband or boyfriend doesn't hear you. Thank you to all of the supportive family members, husbands, boyfriends etc. I did let the National Vulvadynia Assoc. know about my findings years ago. We are behind in technology and got the internet 2weeks ago. Thought I would look this topic up. I will pray for all of you for a cure!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Commentgood morning my new friends.this site has given me new hope. I like so many of you have gone unheard not only by doctors but by the medical community as a whole. I have suffered for ten years or more from vulvodynia, I was told that it was the change of life.and learn to live with it?It wasn"t till I spoke with another nurse that I could pin point my problems. I have been taking several homeopathic meds for hot flashes.and have seen yet another dr. who started me on guaifenesin (mucus lossening med)worked best and no side effects. my own personal God send is gold bond powder triple action and the extra str. I PRAY THERE IS A CURE but till then us girls will stick togeather.and its ok to talk about it, please feel free to e mail me any time Im looking for diets low in oxalates g god
Commentgood morning my new friends.this site has given me new hope. I like so many of you have gone unheard not only by doctors but by the medical community as a whole. I have suffered for ten years or more from vulvodynia, I was told that it was the change of life.and learn to live with it?It wasn"t till I spoke with another nurse that I could pin point my problems. I have been taking several homeopathic meds for hot flashes.and have seen yet another dr. who started me on guaifenesin (mucus lossening med)worked best and no side effects. my own personal God send is gold bond powder triple action and the extra str. I PRAY THERE IS A CURE but till then us girls will stick togeather.and its ok to talk about it, please feel free to e mail me any time Im looking for diets low in oxalates g god
CommentThis is the first time I have added to the guestbook. I have emailed a few individuals who have noted symptoms similar to mine and hope that a few of you will read this and be able to add to what I have already learned. I am 25 and to be married in November. Fortunately, I have the most understanding and patient fiancee. In June 1999 I was diagnosed with vestibulitis/vulvodynia. I have tried all the same things with varying success, except amytriptyline which can possibly trigger dystonia ( a possible genetic disease which my father has). In November 1999 I woke up with pain and swelling in virtually every joint of my body. The constant pain I endure from this is not nearly as bad as the initial flare-up. I have been tested for every connective tissue disease (lupus, scholderma etc.). All tests came back negative. So at this time I am told I have "polyarthritis". All of my doctors are aware of the other problem, however there does not seem to be a correlation. Has anyone had similar arthritis-like symptoms with VV? The VV makes it too painful to sit for long and the joint pain makes it difficult to get up and move around. If you have any information, please email me. Also, if anyone knows a biofeedback specialist in the NC area that would also be helpful. Thanks.
CommentHi ladies, Please help! Here I sit on a Saturday night, in tears, reading these stories by all of you. I've had this problem for 12 years and never been diagnosed til 2 weeks ago by a naturepathic doctor. Still, my concern is that I can't help but wonder if this is what I really have. My symptoms are very similar to what I have read, but no one has mentioned that their problem occurs with having intercourse only. I guess I can look back over the years and see that I may have had a flare up from out of the blue, but it mostly happens after having intercourse or some kind of vulvar friction. I have the extreme itching, reddness, swelling which can last up to 3 weeks, and begins either during intercourse or by the next day. It's awfull and very uncomfortable. Is this the pain you all are talking about? I don't want to get my hopes up if I going down the wrong road. Thank you for your help, Tracy
CommentHi Jennifer, I came down with my vvd in July of 1999 - just about the same time you did. I have done alot of research on the internet and it sounds like you have fibromyalgia. You may want to try the guia drug. I'm not sure if I'm spelling this right but several other women mention this at the end of the 12th guestbook. You should check out the fibromyalgia web site. KK
CommentTracy-my symptoms mostly DO occur after sex.Which is why my husband and I have NOT had sex since March.As long as we don't-I'm mostly ok. Unless I wear pants or shorts for too long.Or if I get constipated it seems as though the symptoms are there-but mild.The only time they are severe and for a Long period of time IS after sex.For me anyway.
CommentIn response to Ruth's entry - my vulvodynia started "right" after I used Monistat. I had a yeast infection while on vacation and took Monistat. My burning then flared up beyond belief and I just figured it was a bad yeast infection, since I am prone to them. However, upon examining myself I saw red splotches and even water blisters. We ran to the on call doctor and he told me I had herpes!!! He gave me herpes medication, even though I was in a 7 year monogamous and very loving relationship! He then told me to "keep using the Monistat", for he also said that I did have a yeast infection. He never once mentioned that I might be allergic to Monistat. 2 weeks later I developed vulvodynia, although I didn't know what it was, and a year later I still have it. I had a yeast infection this year and was desperate enough to try a Monistat app. (I hadn't realized that I was allergic to Monistat) - 3 hours later I had blisters everywhere and I was red and swollen and in horrendous pain. I then put it all together - that I had had an allergic reaction back then and that was verified by my allergic reaciton this year! I feel like filing a law suit against Monistat, for this product should be much more closely monitored!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am serious. I feel like it is the silicone breast implant scenario all over. There is nothing on their paperwork that says excessive use or even one application can cause irrepairable skin and nerve damage and can cause vulvodynia which is uncurable. How many of us are there that got this from yeast creams - over either prolonged use or frequent use or even one application that we had an allergic reaction to? The loss of ones quality of life, sex life, work life and life in general is not worth the cheezy yeast infection ads that act like their products are risk free. Women must be warned and doctors need to know what the risks are. E.
CommentTo Tracy, I have had Vulvodynia for about 12 years now. My symptoms started as itching, burning and swelling after intercourse as well. It has since developed to pain even without intercourse.
CommentI have been to more doctors than I can think of. I think I agree with the allergic response to Monistat that others have listed here. If anyone can e-mail me any other information or personal stories about this, I'd greatly appreciate it. Mine started a few days after I started the medication. I think I may have some nerve damage. I live in New York City and I was wondering if anyone knew of a good gynecologist/dermatologist in the area. Or maybe a doctor that specializes in fibromyglidia? I've reached the point where I am trying to formalize my own treatment because one doctor after another tells me nothing is wrong with me. I"ve already spent close to $3,000 out of pocket between doctors and tests and I still have no improvement. I'm starting to get depressed but I'm not ready to give up yet.
CommentTo Tracy: I have vestibulitis and only have symptoms during/after intercourse. If I never had intercourse I would never know I had a problem! Keep in mind, we all have different problems with vaginal pain.
CommentIn responce to my offering to sell herbal salve. I am an herbalist and have something to offer. However this is how I make my living. Anyone can do the research on how to make salves. Herbal books abound. I wish more women would remember to support each other, then making judgements on their intent. I offer this because it may help. You can always support the corporations, or a small cottage industry. However I am still looking for info on cyst on the skene glan. Thanks VjMoon
CommentRe: vj moon- Peddle your wares elsewhere. I see Dr. Glazer had to put a disclaimer at the beginning of his site now-thanks,I'm sure, to such solicitations. If I were him-I would delete every post you leave here.
CommentHello! After being diagnosed with vulvodynia my doctor put me on lidocaine and hydrocortisone. Obviously, these only covered up some of the symptoms and did not really help my problem. Before going on tri-cyclic antidepressants and possibly estrogen cream, I decided to quit my birth control pills. I had been on birth control pills on and off since I was 17, for irregular periods. I am 23 now. Within 2 weeks of quitting my pills, there was such a marked difference that I could have sex with my husband while experiencing only minimal discomfort. I have kept getting better. It has now been two months and I am completely pain free! Something I discovered was that my mother ,who is going through menopause, was on estrogen/progesterone therapy and experienced much of the same symptoms that I had with vulvodynia. When she heard that I had quit my BC pills, she quit her pills and is getting better also. At my diaphragm fitting, I told my gynecologist about quitting the pills and she said she was surprised, since I had been on pills for years before symptoms occured. However, she admitted that allergic reactions could occur at any time. She was amazed at my improvement. The last exam I had was excruciating and I was sore for days. I know that quitting BC pills won't work for everyone. I am offering this information in the hope that it will help someone out there who is sensitive to birth control pills and is suffering needlessly because of it! If you have any questions, feel free to email me!
CommentI, too, only experience pain when I wear shorts or jeand that are tight or in the hours, and sometimes days after intercourse. Sometimes after sex it hurts really bad, burning, stinging, etc...etc..etc, but then again sometimes it just makes me sore. The tight clothes do make me hurt, though. I use estrace before bedtime, a steroid topically in the morning and in the evening, and before I have sex, I rub lidicane 2% on the vaginal opening. I also use Astroglide during sex. Last week I had a really bad day, and I discovered that mens Hanes boxers, the cotton fitting ones feel really great!!!! They do not have a seam in the crotch and this does make the pain subside, because there is nothing irritating it. Also if there is anyone in the Savannah Ga area that knows of a doctor that is up on VVS please let me know. The doctor that diagnosed me has disappointed me and I am thinking of changing doctors, but only if someone can recommend a dr that knows about this illness. Good luck to all and hold your head high. We will on day conquer this feat!!! Crystal
Commentanyone have any luck using clobetesol .05% (steroid creme)? I am currently using it and have already noticed a difference.I will only be using it for 6 weeks. I was using premarin(estrogen creme) but it seemed to stop being effective.
CommentI disagree with the women who objected to Ms Moon's offer to supply herbal salve. I believe her intent was a caring and intelligent offer. You folks who object to that, well, don't order any from her. Some of you sound a bit immature. I am interested in any help I can get and if Ms. Moon product can help me and others well then it is a good thing. Bye for now.
CommentJust read the article in July Prevention. I was diagnosed August '97 with vaginal exzema. My gyn biopsied the area. I was in disbelief. Never had a problem with yeast infections or this awful itching & burning. He said he was sorry and that he, too, suffered with exzema. I bet it wasn't genital, though! He said there was no cure and it could go away or last forever. He prescribed a lotion and told me use it sparingly and no longer than 2 weeks. In between, I was to use Aquafor Original Ointment, no underwear if possible, watch the detergents, fabric softeners, blah , blah, blah. Forget intercourse! What was all this about???? After trying every thing except the surgical stuff....alchohol injections were recommended, but geez.....couldn't bear the thought......I came across the only thing that gives relief and I'm almost back to normal. I want to share this in case it can help someone else. It is a cellular detox bath...ABRA Theraputic Baths. Made by ABRACADABRA, INC. Guernville. CA. After reading some of the info on taking baths I was hesitant to share this, but it has helped me so much. This is not an advertisement either. I no longer use the prescribed lotion. Just the ABRA and the Aquafor Ointment. Stress does seem to cause flare ups. I moved in April and that was my last flare up. A really bad one. Has anyone heard of vaginal exzema?? After reading all the entries it seems like vulvodynia to me. I have an yearly gyn appt due now and I will take the article and website info with me. Thanks to everyone who has shared.
CommentMelanie, where did you get the bath stuff? I couldn't find it via internet. Do yo need a prescription? Is there anybody out there who lives in Germany or at least in Europe? German doctors have know idea what the term 'vulvodynia' means and I seem to be the only person in Germany who has got this terrible disease.
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CommentI've been suffering with vulvodynia for about 9 yrs. andsometimes feel like I want to just die. The pain can get so bad. I read about Dr. Howard Glazers procedure and wondered if any of your had heard of it. I've even made an appt. to see him in New York and I live in Colo. Any one actaully gone to his clinic? Please e-mail me---I'm ready to freak!
CommentHi This is the first time I've looked at this site for a few months now. The last time I read the guestbook, I was very down and in a lot of pain, the messages left at least gave me hope that I wasn't going completely mad, as vulvodynia is not something you can easily share with others. My main reason for writing is to offer some hope and advice for those of you who may be suffering symptoms because of something called pudendal neuralgia. It transpired that I had this, probably induced by a fall onto my coccyx, many years ago. This was diagnosed by a Genito-urinary clinic (in the UK), having got over the stigma of visiting such a place (!) i was amazed by their kindness and insight into this condition. I was referred to a McTimoney Chiropractor (I think this school of Chiropractic is only in the UK currently, but may have expanded) who was fantastic. She puts my pain down to a traumatic injury to my coccyx, which is putting pressure on the nerve. The treatment has been a little uncomfortable, but the benefits are immense - I would recommend an assessment to anyone who may have this type of problem. To not be in pain, or in fear of the return of the pain is truly wonderful. To those of you are still suffering, my thoughts are with you, God bless.
CommentTo Melissa on 6/27; I have tried the clobetesol .05% cream. My doctor told me to try it for 2 weeks every other night. Yes it helped for those two weeks. But when he prescribed it, he said not to use it very often after that because it was so strong and if it gets into your blood stream it can cause bigger problems. So I use it occasionally when I'm having really bad days. It helps for a couple of days at a time, but then the itching always comes back. I would use it more often, but my doctor kind of scared me when he told me the possible bigger problems I could have! Teri
CommentHi everyone. I haven't posted or really read any postings since the end of March...I decided it was time to 'come back' for a visit. I have suffered from vulvodynia for over 6 years now - my story is posted somewhere in March. Anyways, I don't know about you guys, but this thing can really play with my mind as far as when I can and can't talk about it...When I'm going through a period of mild to no pain, the LAST thing I want to do is talk about it...because I am sooo afraid it's going to instantly 'come back'. Then when I'm feeling pretty 'good', if I get the slightest bit of a 'twinge' I can become overwhelmed with fear that, again, it's instantly going to come back in full force! I believe that even if I am 'cured' some day that I will have this 'fear' for the rest of my life! Anyways, I am here for a reason...other than just to 'ramble'. There was a posting way back when by Mary (somewhere near my original one) regarding her experience with ART -Active Release Technique...which is practiced by licensed chiropractors. Since my vulvar burning supposedly stems from a hip and lower back injury, I decided to look for a chiropractor who might be able to help me, like one did for Mary. After the chiropractor I am now regularly seeing did thorough analysis/exam of my history, he concluded that I have severe scar tissue in my entire left hip flexor area running down into my lower abdomen as well. This scarring, he believes, has been directly affecting a nerve called the genefemoral (sp?) nerve which comes out of your hip flexor muscle and runs directly into your vulvar area...His goal is to get rid of the scarring (by doing ART). He believes that once the scar tissue is gone, my pain will be gone as well. HMMM....I of course, have been skeptical, only because of how long I've suffered from this and how many supposed 'cures' have been thrown my way...but Mary was cured and I guess 2 other women were as well by ART. There is a sight on ART you can log onto...I can't remember it right now. Mary typed it on her posting. As far as whether this is 'working' for me or not...it is so hard to tell because for 6 years I have had good periods of tiem and unbearable periods of time, being on and off drugs- topical, oral, biofeedback, you name it, I've done it...so there has been really no way of telling what has helped or not helped for ME. I am happy to say though, that I am off the Elavil and have put my trust in my chiropractor alone. I still see my physical therapist who will continue to help me as well... Anyways, Mary asked me to post my 'update' and I didn't think I was quite ready...I wanted to wait until I'm pain free. It would be nice if I REALLY believed that that could happen to me. So, instead of sulking while waiting I did decide to 'come back'... I'm sorry for rambling and thank you for listening...I know I have said this before, but please, if any of you haven't been to a physical therapist and/or chiropractor to get your body structure checked out...please do. It is worth a shot. Believe me...If I had been advised to do this 6 years ago I might notbe here right now. Just a quick note regarding itching and redness 'down there'...I have it all off and on - plus the burning. The three of these symptoms are the result of my nerve being affected by all that scarring in my hip and abdomen area. I had to literally erase the idea of BACTERIA - as hard as it is to not believe that's what this really is - out of my mind. So, yes, redness and itching can come as a result of nerve damage as well. Thank you everyone for listening...feel free to e-mail me any time. Tammy
CommentHi again...Mary's posting on ART information is on 4/1/00. There is a number you can call to find a licensed chiro. who practices ART in your area...719-473-7000. The website to get more info. on ART is www.chiropractic-sports.com/referemce/ART.HTML Good Luck. -Tammy
CommentHas anyone seen O Magazine (the latest from our favorite fabricated talk show personality)? Anyway, if anyone still cares at this point, she ran an article about why women don't want sex and went out of her way NOT to mention vv/vulvodynia. They listed vaginal dryness, hormonal problems, stress, fatigue, and loads of other factors in your head. At this point I don't know if it would do any good to write to the magazine, but if anyone wants to try you can email her and her problem-free vagina at YourOpinions@hearst.com.
CommentTo DK: I laughed when I just read your post about Oprah. Too bad she doesn't give a damn about our pain and neither does Barbara Walters or anyone else that has been contacted!!!
Commenthi, i have put several entires in the guestbooks in the last year. i have been almost completely cured, but get flare ups of the burning now and then. i was wondering if anyone could help answer a question? Has anyone taking antibiotics (in particular stronger ones) have increased pain/burning or brought on a flare up of vulvar pain? I am taking one for an ear infetion and suddenly my symptoms came back, i have not had a flare up in two months, and before that 6 months. if anyone has any answers, please help! also, i have a long distance relationship. when we are not together, obviously there is no sexual contact. once we finally see each other, it is a lot at once, and i end up feeling sore and sometimes get a yeast infection from it. has anyone else experienced this? my vulvar pain consists of intermittent burning and soreness. it lasted for 4 months last summer and suddenly went away ( thank God!!). i was misdiagnosed and treated several times for yeast infections, and ended up severely burning my skin. as a result, i get easily sore and chafed after frequent intercourse. and i have been tested for everything under the sun, and had nothing. we use an all natural lubricant from a health food store which is excellent, but i feel like i need something that can soothe it afterwards, almost a moisturizer of some sort. if anyone has any advice on any of my questions, i would love to hear from you! Thank you, LIZ
CommentJust wondering if any of you thought about or where even tested for the following: Blood flow problems. I may not be articulating this properly so I will try to elaborate. You know how they told me that impotence was in their heads?? Just like they try to tell us this too! Now they have Viagra. Which I believe helps the blood flow properly to the area therefore enabling an erection. What if Vulvodynia is a blood disorder, which is the exact opposite of impotence. The blood is flowing to freely to the area, therefore creating swelling, such as in myself, and other sensatations that I am sure we all experience. Do this make sense to anyone? Has anyone questioned their doctors on this? If so what did they say? Is there a test to determine something like this? Is there a drug that can do the opposite of Viagra. I am interested in any and all thoughts, whether you agree with what I am writing in this post or not, and any details of conversations you have has with doctors on this. You can write to the email address above or post on this site if you are more comfortable. Lauren
CommentOK one more post for the day! Anyone who lives in NYC who is not embarrassed about the name of the condition and who is tired of being ignored, tired of doctors who brush us off and tell us it is all in our heads, tired of hearing there is nothing wrong with us and wants to do something bold-please contact me. I am seriously thinking about getting up early in the morning... Going to the today show with a huge poster, doing my damndest to get a camera shot, and having a poster that says something to the effect of" cure vulvodynia" or "stop ignoring Vulvodynia" You get the point. I am just really tired of not getting the correct help and tired of reading about all the rest of you who can't seem to get anyone to take your pain seriously enough and offer proper help. Sure there are a few practitioners that care, I have an acupuncturist that I feel cares. I go every week and yes it helps somewhat. But I am still in pain, still swollen, still uncomfortable, still getting pinching and pulling and itching sensations. I am tired of feeling like my clitoris is swollen all the time as if I am in a hightened state of well...(when I am not and don't want to be!) It is physically tiring to constantly feel this way. Well anyway. If anyone lives in the NYC area wants to be bold with me, please contact me. I am so willing to do this. Not because I want to. Because I feel that something different and bold has to be done. Because the media isn't paying attention to us. Because we have to give them a hook that makes them want to write about us. They are choosing to distance themselves from this subject because of the stigma attached now, which is that we as women make this up! That has to change and the only way to do that is with the media's help. And the only way to make them write a story or stories is to give them another hook on vulvodynia, like showing up at Rockefellar Center in the morning with a huge sign. Lauren
CommentI need help. This is the first time have written or talked about this with anyone except my husband. I have sores. Right now there is a red sore right out outside my vagina opening. And the left side of my vagina opening burns when I insert my finger. There use to be a sore on the left side of my cervix. I don't know if it's there anymore because I haven't tried penetration in a year. My OBY didn't believe me at first because she said it was rare to have pain on your cervix, but when she touched it with a Qtip, it was so painful she did believe me.For the past 6 years, I have had this problem. I "flare" up after trying to have sex. I get diagnosed for yeast infections. But it's recurrent. I also "flare" up with my period. I seek doctors( too many to count!) , but have not found a good one. So then I get depressed and play the denial game until I can deal with it again. When I can't deal with it, I ignore it. It doesn't hurt all the time. Only when you touch the sores or try to penetrate. I never have sex. My husband and I tried only twice last year. This is a sad sexual history. But, I see everyone here suffers too, so I don't want to sound too sorry for myself. I have not been diagnosed, but my last OBY gave me info on Vulvodynia and VV. She was nice but just didn't know what to do. Can anyone recommend a good OBY in Dallas, TX? I have yet to find a doctor that knows much about this and what to test for or what to do. PLEASE EMAIL ME. Thanks. Lucy
CommentTo Liz: I've had VV flare-ups everytime I've had to take antibiotics. I now only take them if I absolutely have to. After sex, I take a hot bath & apply vitamin e oil to my vulva & this seems to help a lot. I continue with the baths until the pain, burning, urinary symptoms go away. Hope this helps you. Sue
CommentTo Crystal, I was reading through this guestbook and saw that you are having a surgery soon. I just wanted to say to you (and everyone) thanks for sharing and I will say a prayer for your safe and successful surgery. Chin up, and hopes Very High!
CommentI have been visiting this site since I saw in 'Prevention' the article about this maddening condition. I too have been to my Dr. who is very kind and caring but after every kind of test showing nothing wrong or abnormal, he prescribed vaginal creams that are useless. When I read about all the women suffering on these 'Guestbooks' I felt better as I honestly thought I was the only one. This is not a casual topic of conversation! So I guess as the phrase says,"Misery loves company", is right. Then I remembered Great Granny's book of remedies!, all hand written and not always decipherable but ...'TOUCH WOOD' ... so far it IS working! Now please don't scoff at me, but it is good old apple cider vinegar, undisstilled, still has the 'mother' in it and is very cloudy. It must be in a dark container as light makes it lose it's potency. So I decided to research this fine old remedy and I found books have been written on it for almost every kind of ailment, but of course because it is natural and pharmacy's cannot get patents on it then you never hear anything about it.I decided to do so and I have come from being a case for the mental hospital to where I am now just using it when I feel the slightest twinge of anything starting up again. At first I used it straight from the jug, as is, and I tell you I had to hold back the tears and try to get my breath because it stung but very soon it was better, I am also taking 2 tsp. in glass of water before every meal,I can't believe it. But it has something to do with your PH balance in your body and if it goes too far one way or the other apparently we are in trouble, just like our gardens, if the soil is not the proper PH balance you don't get results from all your work and planting.It makes sense because everyone seems to have different symptons but the results seem to be similiar. Anyway it won't hurt you to try it and who knows it may help you as it has me, I certainly hope so and to H--- with all those unsympathetic medicine men!
CommentI have been visiting this site since I saw in 'Prevention' the article about this maddening condition. I too have been to my Dr. who is very kind and caring but after every kind of test showing nothing wrong or abnormal, he prescribed vaginal creams that are useless. When I read about all the women suffering on these 'Guestbooks' I felt better as I honestly thought I was the only one. This is not a casual topic of conversation! So I guess as the phrase says,"Misery loves company", is right. Then I remembered Great Granny's book of remedies!, all hand written and not always decipherable but ...'TOUCH WOOD' ... so far it IS working! Now please don't scoff at me, but it is good old apple cider vinegar, undisstilled, still has the 'mother' in it and is very cloudy. It must be in a dark container as light makes it lose it's potency. So I decided to research this fine old remedy and I found books have been written on it for almost every kind of ailment, but of course because it is natural and pharmacy's cannot get patents on it then you never hear anything about it.I decided to do so and I have come from being a case for the mental hospital to where I am now just using it when I feel the slightest twinge of anything starting up again. At first I used it straight from the jug, as is, and I tell you I had to hold back the tears and try to get my breath because it stung but very soon it was better, I am also taking 2 tsp. in glass of water before every meal,I can't believe it. But it has something to do with your PH balance in your body and if it goes too far one way or the other apparently we are in trouble, just like our gardens, if the soil is not the proper PH balance you don't get results from all your work and planting.It makes sense because everyone seems to have different symptons but the results seem to be similiar. Anyway it won't hurt you to try it and who knows it may help you as it has me, I certainly hope so and to H--- with all those unsympathetic medicine men!
CommentI have been visiting this site since I saw in 'Prevention' the article about this maddening condition. I too have been to my Dr. who is very kind and caring but after every kind of test showing nothing wrong or abnormal, he prescribed vaginal creams that are useless. When I read about all the women suffering on these 'Guestbooks' I felt better as I honestly thought I was the only one. This is not a casual topic of conversation! So I guess as the phrase says,"Misery loves company", is right. Then I remembered Great Granny's book of remedies!, all hand written and not always decipherable but ...'TOUCH WOOD' ... so far it IS working! Now please don't scoff at me, but it is good old apple cider vinegar, undisstilled, still has the 'mother' in it and is very cloudy. It must be in a dark container as light makes it lose it's potency. So I decided to research this fine old remedy and I found books have been written on it for almost every kind of ailment, but of course because it is natural and pharmacy's cannot get patents on it then you never hear anything about it.I decided to do so and I have come from being a case for the mental hospital to where I am now just using it when I feel the slightest twinge of anything starting up again. At first I used it straight from the jug, as is, and I tell you I had to hold back the tears and try to get my breath because it stung but very soon it was better, I am also taking 2 tsp. in glass of water before every meal,I can't believe it. But it has something to do with your PH balance in your body and if it goes too far one way or the other apparently we are in trouble, just like our gardens, if the soil is not the proper PH balance you don't get results from all your work and planting.It makes sense because everyone seems to have different symptons but the results seem to be similiar. Anyway it won't hurt you to try it and who knows it may help you as it has me, I certainly hope so and to H--- with all those unsympathetic medicine men!
CommentSorry, sorry, it is the first time I have sent anything here and kit looks as if I sent it three or four times, is there any way the powers that be there can erase some of them?
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CommentI only wish I found this site sooner. I've been suffering for the past 3 years going from doctor to doctor. Luckily, where I live there is a doctor who specializes in Vulvodynia and is one of the top 3 doctors in the U.S. I just had surgery last month...a vestioplasty. My doctor has a 95% success rate and I hope I'm one of them. It is nice to know that I'm not alone...altough I wouldn't wish this on anyone. If anyone wants any info on the doctor or the surgery....please let me know.
CommentI only wish I found this site sooner. I've been suffering for the past 3 years going from doctor to doctor. Luckily, where I live there is a doctor who specializes in Vulvodynia and is one of the top 3 doctors in the U.S. I just had surgery last month...a vestioplasty. My doctor has a 95% success rate and I hope I'm one of them. It is nice to know that I'm not alone...altough I wouldn't wish this on anyone. If anyone wants any info on the doctor or the surgery....please let me know.
CommentInteresting site! Don't know if this is the right name for what I have, but sporatically get shooting pains. Could this be the pantyliners although they are not scented?
CommentThis is in reference to the Operah comment. What does that b---- know anyway? I think that she keeps gaining weight so that she can be idled when she loose it! And she knows that her and her self that is woth billions of dollars would just "buy" a cure if she got vulvodynia. And to say that this is stemming from being tired, being overworked, etc etc etc, WHO DOES SHE THINK THAT SHE IS??????? That woman wouldn't know reality if it slapped her in the face. Oh well you get the point and I fell better now that I got that out!! Have a painfree day ladies.
CommentI am not sure this is for everyone, but I have horrible pain on contact in the 3-9 o'clock region and I have found that drinking or doing light drugs before sex actually helps. Obviously for some people this would cause more problems but one glass of scotch or hit from a joint won't kill you and it seems to dull the pain (although alcohol dulls sexual response as well). Is it pathetic that we have to do this? Yes, probably, but no weirder than cutting out a part of your body because no one cares enough to listen, and it's certainly less painful and more fun. May I reiterate, one more time, that this IS NOT FOR EVERYONE, but if you are young and don't have any funky addiction history, it might be worth a try. And for those of you who think selling on this site is admirable, what would you say now if I decided to sell some wacky tabacky? Totally inappropriate, don't you think?
CommentLadies: Now remember, Oprah is not personally reading and rejecting your emails and letters. She has a large staff to do that.
CommentI have reading the guestbook entries for almost 6 months now and I finally decided to submit my entry. I have had recurrent yeast infections for approximately 7 years now. I am 25 years old and started taking birth control pills at the age of 17 1/2 due to irregular periods and took them for 8 years. Even though I stopped the bc pills in November 1999 I am still getting yeast infections monthly and they have seemed more resistant to medication. In the past I have always been able to use Terazol 7 and the yeast has gone away. Within the past year along with the yeast infections I have constant vulvar pain, redness, and discomfort. I am unable to wear jeans and sit for long periods of time. My current gynecologist has me on Ketaconazole 400mg a day and it seems to be helping the yeast infection, but the vulvar redness is still the same. I am really getting irritated by feeling like this all of the time. If anyone has any suggestions, please feel free to e-mail me..
CommentMy 76 year old mother is suffering horrible since 3 years from Vulvodynia. after seeing all kinds of specialist and not finding any help at all, she was put on morphium, which know also is working less and less. please, is anybody out there able to give me some adresses of other women suffering from this illness in Germany, so my mother could contact them . She has no computer , and speaks no english. I"am despreate to find any help I can give her. Thank you, Dorothee .
CommentThis is the first time I've visited this site, I hope I do it right :) I diagnosed myself with VV after discovering my symptoms were experienced by other women on the vulvodynia Yahoo! club. Has anyone else here has pain since childhood? I'm so glad places like these exist!
CommentDoes anybody know of good, knowledgeable doctors in the St. Louis or Chicago area? Please email me if you do.
CommentIt has been awhile since I have posted here but I just wanted to let everyone know that I finally found some relief. I am seeing Dr. Sobel in Detroit Michigan and he has me taking 50mg of Elavil and Diflucan once a week. After suffering in pain every day non stop, I am finally having pain free days. There will be a day here and there that the pain will surge up again but it usually is only for a little while. I have been able to play softball and have started going back to the gym. The one downfall to this medication is that I believe the Elavil has made me put on about 30 pounds. I'm sure it is also combined with the fact that I couldn't excercise or be active in the past year due to pain. Anyway, I go back to see Dr. Sobel next week and we may start using Cortisone injections at that time. It depends on how I am feeling. I will keep all of you updated if I find anything else that helps. Hang in there ladies and make sure to get some kind of support. We can't do this alone! I'm feeling good now, but who knows how I will feel tomorrow. Hopefully this will last. I am praying for all of you.
CommentHello! Does anyone know of a good doctor in the Elizabeth, NJ area? I was seeing Dr. Benson Horowitz in CT and have just moved to NJ. Thanks!
CommentDoes anyone have the name of a dermatologist in Nj who treats vv? I have been diagnosed with contact dermatitis and psoriasis of the vulvar by my Gyn She reached diagnosis after she took a biopsy. She prescribed Diprolene creme 2x per day but it causes even more burning than before. i need to see a doctor who has treated this successfully. Can anyone help?
CommentHi. I've been reading this site for quite a few months now, and I've found the entries both interesting and insightful - it helps to know that others are trying to make sense of this confusing condition. The reason I'm posting this note, is in response to a couple of entries I've read - regarding antibiotic use in relation to yeast (candida) infections and the posting from Lauren further up the page, regarding "blood flow" to "the" area. Partly because these are areas I keep coming back to myself, but I just thought I'd let you know about an interesting site about candida (which has some good links) and its effects on our health - "Karen Tripps Candida Recovery". Just to let you know - this site does mention some homeopathic names,etc but her story and experiences are interesting - I have to take antibiotics fairly regularly, but it does make you wonder what all this medication ends up doing to your body? The other point about the "blood flow" - my mum sent me an article from England called 'living with pelvic pain'. The article (featured in a magazine in England) - was about a 30yr old who had had pelvic pain for short periods of time in her life - when for no reason it "flared" up chronically. She saw a Professor Richard Beard (in Middlesex,England) and after a variety of examinations he found that she had severe pelvic congestion - linked to a malfunction of her ovaries/hormone imbalance. The treatment she had temporarorly "shut-down" her ovaries for 9 months, which was combined with counselling - she realised she "internalized" her problems which exacerbated her symptoms. Anyway, I guess this probabably an over simplification of her treatment, and this may not be of much use to others but I thought it was a point of interest - I guess I just understood what she meant when she said that it was a relief to find out what was wrong with her after years of being fobbed off with by Dr's and given painkillers and tranquillisers. Anyway, I hope this may be food for thought for some of us, as I know signs and symptoms vary drastically for all of us. Thanks.
CommentIn regards to Liz 6/28, Liz, you say you are pretty much cured now, but you didn't say how (or what you think is responsible for your recovery). Would you let us know? That's really great to hear! Thanks.
CommentYesterday I saw a specialist at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia. He said I had a chronic allergic reaction (contact dermititis). He seems to think it is from my cat. Does anyone else have a cat? I have been tested for allergies and I am highly allergic to cats. He said the swelling and burning could be from this. He prescribed a steriod cream (triamcinalone?) He also suggested giving the cat up. For now I am going to try to keep her out of our bedroom. I am also going to call the vet to see what else I could do, such as giving her baths, etc. I also had an allergist tell me the same thing 6 months ago. Who knows.
CommentI was recently diagnosed with vulvar vestibulitis 18 days ago -- en route on my honeymoon. So far, this disease has made my new marriage incredibly difficult. My husband and I are committed Christians, and with difficulty, we waited until marriage to have sex. Unfortunately, we're still waiting. The wedding night was a disaster. The pain was so bad that I made an appointment with a gynecologist before we left for our honeymoon. The doctor diagnosed me with vulvar vestibulitis, and he gave me some Betamethasone steroid creme and some lidocaine jelly. But the pain is still bad, and we haven't even attempted sex in over a week and a half. Pretty awful for newlyweds. How long does this last? I am already getting very depressed. My mother has been struggling with clinical depression for the past three years, so I know the signs of depression. Already I don't feel like the same girl my husband married. I'm 23, a newlywed virgin, and I have no idea how soon I'm going to be able to lose my virginity and enjoy it!!! The worst is that I don't even want to try to have sex anymore. I'm so afraid of the severe pain, that my sex drive is practically non-existent. My husband doesn't know what to do, I don't know what to do. I'm considering stopping my birth control pills, because I sure don't need them now, plus my system is pretty sensitive to drugs in general. Any hope or consolation someone can offer me would be greatly appreciated. I'm a wreck. Feel free to email me.
CommentThis is in response to Susan who saw a Dr at Temple University in Philly. Do you have his name and phone number.? Is there a clinic there that specializes in vv?
CommentCan anyone recommend a gentle, non-irritating lubricant?
CommentYes I use a non-irritating lubricant called Slippery Stuff. Found it in Washington DC and New York. At least it was not irritating too me. My friends who do not have this illness use it and love it too!
CommentAstroglide is another lubricant which seems to work well.
CommentHi ladies, I've just finished reading the recent entries and sit here with very mixed emotions. Part of me feels very depressed that what I have does not seem like it is curable and that I am going to have to suffer for the rest of my life. The other part of me is very happy to know that there are other women out there with the same problems and may have some help to offer. I have been married for less than a year now, and needless to say this problem is putting some strain on our marriage. My husband is very supportive and feels terrible that I am in so much pain. Both of us are just so frustrated. I have suffered minor vaginal irritation for 5 years or so, but it has recently gotten a lot worse. Last summer I got really sick and was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Since then the pain seems to have gotten worse. I was recommended to this site by a lady who also suffers from IBS and thinks that the two problems may be related. After reading these entries I was overwhelmed at all the different treatments and drugs that women have tried. Do I have to just keeping trying them to find what works? Are there some treatments that work better than others? I have a soctors appointment in a couple days, but I'm not sure if he'll be able to help me out. The doctors I've seen before have been useless when it comes to this problem. Thanks for listening. I hope somebody can help me.
CommentTo Ruth, A good vulval/vaginal moisturiser is a little olive oil.
CommentTo Ruth. Re moisturisers Have you tried using a small amount of olive oil ?
CommentI ran across this website last weekend when surfing the web for vestibulitis and immune defincincy disorders. I have had problems with recurrent yeast infections, burning, itching, various discharges, oders, and pain and swelling of the vulva for over 20 yrs. I had my 1st yeast infection when I was 14. And a ocasional one in high school and college. When I met my 1st husband he gave me genital warts. That's when everything went downhill. It took 2 yrs to get rid of the warts. After that my ordeal got worse, the pain and constant burning never went away. I went to many drs for this some told me it was yeast, some said allergies and some said it was in my head. It wasn't until I was remarried and about 7 yrs ago my GYN happened to be at a conference about vestibulitis that I was diagnosed. Her treatment was laser surgery. Didn't work Then the dr referred me to a specialist in IA City, Ia. I got some relief from his suggestions. Use All Free Clear laundry detergent, no fabric softeners not even fabric sheets in dryer. I wasn't using fabric sheets on my clothes but was using them on my husbands. They left a residue in the dryer which got on my clothes and caused me to break out in hives on buttacks and vaginal area. Now we don't use anything. Can't use Always pads has something in it that causes irritation. Have to use Dove sensitive free soap. No pantyhose and only all cotton underware and should be changed if moisture present can be irritating. Zinc oxide or A&D ointment can be used for painand burnig. Also prescribed an ointment with nystatin in it. Soaking in baking soda can help irriation. Some things I have found on my own is soaking in apple cider vinegar can help. So can soaking in cornstarch. My dr connected that I had an immune defincincy disorder and has found that some women with this disease also have vulva diseases and that they are connected. Also he has made a connection with the HPV virus which he found in my vulva March '99. Some of you might what to be tested for this. Mine was found by a biopsy. From what I have read about HPV most everyone has it but aren't aware of it unless having symptoms. My pain and burnig got worse and that is when he found it. Now I am at risk for cancer of the vulva and the cervix due to the warts. I have ordered the noni juice to see if that will help. It just came and have just started taking it. Hope I have helped some of you with whast I have learned over the yrs. Hopefully some cure or at least a sure treatment for this can be found. Women shouldn't have to suffer this way. Chris
CommentI am curious to know how many of us take medication for high blood pressue and if there could be some link between them and vv. I think some of my problems started when my GP prescribed Diovan for high blood pressure.
CommentSomething I forget to mention in my 1st writing. The lubricant thta my GYN has me using...now don't laugh...is crisco oil. It is natural and non irritating and does work well. Also in response to the woman who's GYN told her, her vestibulitis is from an allergy from her cat. Well I too have a cat and I'm extremly allergic to cats, but have never been told that my cat had caused this condition. Thank God my allergist didn't understand this condition or he might have used it as another reason to get rid of my cat. I have had a cat since I was 4 yrs old and am now 41 don't plan on ever being without one. Will give up some things, but not that. I did go 2 yrs without a cat, the apt I lived in didn't allow them. It never made a difference. Just thought I'd let you know my thoughts on this. Chris
CommentI just wanted to say my doctor told me to use crisco every other day and premarin cream on the days I don't use the crisco. I thought he was crazy, but I will try anything. Funny thing, I have been feeling alot better since trying the crisco. Just thought I'd let you all know it seems to be working for me, I've only been using it for about 2 weeks now. I'll post again in about a month and let you all know if it is still working. One thing about this illness, every time you think you have it licked, it flares up again. Good luck everyone. God Bless you all.....
CommentI am 46 years old and in 1997 I was diagnosed with systemic, end stage Interstitial Cystitis. I also have vulvodynia and vulvovestibulitis syndrome which includes chronic pelvic pain and pudendal neuralgia. I also have Sjogren's Disease (SD). As of 11/98 I am now completely disabled, 70% homebound, 20% bedridden and a 10% window of "energy" where I cram in all the necessities of life. My treatment options are so limited due to my numerous drug allergies and lack of competent physicians in my area and a lousy insurance plan provided by my former employer. I am a new subscriber to the NVA newsletter and a long time subscriber to the ICA newsletter. I am single and any type of sexual activity is absolutely excruciating for me so I haven't dated since 1995. The loneliness and lack of emotional intimacy with the opposite sex is unbearable. As a nurse I am shocked and appalled at the stupidity of the medical establishment, in my city at least, regarding IC, VVS and Vd. I get so tired of explaining myself and trying to prove these diseases exist and are real everytime I go the ER for intractable pain management. I am on a hospice type regimen with opiate narcotics as that is all my ins. co. will pay for. Anyway, I am glad I get to vent. I need all the support I can get living with this nightmare. I will accept e-mail and I have signed up with this web site for future access.
CommentAddendum to the message I just posted. I have "devoured" any and all info re: IC, VVS, Vd, Pudendal Neuralgia, Chronic Pelvic Pain and pain management strategies. The Interstitial Cystitis Association and the Interstital Cystitis Network have excellent resources for both the physical and psychological pain we all suffer. I am a new internet user and I am astounded at how many sites there are for the above diseases (so how come the idiot doctors don't know as much as the www?) IC, VVS, and Vd all feed off of each other. If you have one it's almost a sure thing you've got the other 2. These three hideous diseases seem to come as a set. I was reading one entry from someone and I do agree that it's time we as women begin to revolt against the testosterone heavy AMA and get the RESPECT, research dollars and treatment we deserve! We need to go before Congress to get the funding through the NIH, which is always backed by a greedy drug company. If only we had a "famous" person who suffered from one or all 3 of these diseases maybe then we would get recognition. My only suggestion is to talk, talk, and talk some more. Tell everyone you come in contact with about these diseases and how it destroys the quality of life. Silence is deadly. We need to shout about this from the rooftops and then maybe things will start happening. Am open to feedback from any of you and am also a good listener and will answer questions. If I don't have the answer, I'll research it to the best of my ability for you. Let's stick together. There is power in numbers!!!
CommentI recently started using Stevia which is an alternative sweetner to sugar. It is actually made from Chicory root. It seems it could be irritating my vulvodynia, but I am not certain. Does anyone know of a sugar substitute that is not irritating to vulvodynia sufferers? I am trying to cut sugar out of my diet to see if my problem could be a yeast issue. I know we are not supposed to use chemical sweetners such as equal and sweet n lo. Also, other that any soy products, is there a non-dairy and sugar free product that can be used for certain cereals and mainly for the creamer in my Kava(coffee substitute)? Please email me direct also. I am willing to communicate with anyone regarding these women issues. Thank you for listening. Also, I read in my nutritional healing book and it lists so many vitamins and supplements to take. Could someone tell me what is the absolute best vitamins, supplements and nutritional things to take. I think I have to many things to take and it too difficult. I feel like a supplement freak! If there is someone who is knowledgeable in this part, please email me. Thank You.
CommentDoes anyone know where to get Burow's Solution (suppose to help with burning associated with urine touching vulvar tissue). I would like to try this . I use water now to rinse, but need something better.
CommentThis is to thank Laura Hubbard for giving me the courage to go public with this on a very popular news show in our area. I e'mailed the anchorwoman who does a segment on health issues. She wrote me back right away asking if I would be willing to be on air. I am VERY shy and told her I would think about it. I am going to e'mail her back and tell her that I will do it, if her producers agree to run a segment on vulvodynia. I'll keep you all updated. If this is a go I'm going to need encouragement and prayers.. How about we all e'mail or contact our local news programs, especially those who run health segments regularly. It will be easier to get the word out this way than to try to get national attention I believe. Best wishes to us all and I'm praying for all of you. Rebekah
CommentHurray, Rebekah!! Thanks for deciding to do it, and good luck...definitely keep us posted. It's a good idea to write to our local news stations. I am going to do the same. nicki
CommentWay to go Rebekah! Keep us updated. Where do you live? I tried contacting my local TV station with no success but think I will give it another try.
CommentI live in southwest michigan. I'll let you know the station, time and date if and when the producers decide to go ahead with it. It's a station out of Grand Rapids that has a huge audience. I know that there are women who would see it and say, "Oh my word, that's what I've been trying to convince my doctors of." The anchorwoman I corresponded with who does the health segment seemed encouraging about doing a story on it, I hope her producers give her the okay. If anyone is in this area, e'mail me personally. It would be fun to chat and if you would be on the show with me, I wouldn't be so scared. Hope you all have a wonderful Summer! Rebekah
CommentOne more thing I have been getting myself into "scratch and itch cycles". Once they start, they are so hard to end, does anyone have any advice? It's not scratching while I'm sleeping that gets me into this trouble, it itches so bad when I'm awake that I find it very difficult to keep from running to the bathroom to cry and scratch.
CommentTo Anna Johnson- I think you are wondering about domeboro's solution. It is an over the counter powder that when mixed with water forms an astringent. It is somewhat soothing to burning of the skin- especially if you refrigerate it.
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CommentI am 30 years old, married, with no kids yet, but hopefully, I will be able to get pregnant soon. It will be two years this fall since I started having problems which have since been diagnosed as vulvodynia. I hope not only for a cure, but for vulvodynia to be a disease that is widely recognized. I believe that mine could have been avoided, but hindsight is 20/20 of course. I had chronic yeast infections since I was 19 years old. I used prescription and over-the-counter antifungal creams. A few times I was given antifungal pills. I tried low-yeast diets and acidophilus pills. The infections always came back. When I was 26 years old, I started putting a capsule filled with boric acid powder in my vagina before I went to bed every other night. I was told this was a good strategy for chronic yeast by two nurse practicioners. If I stopped doing this, I felt an infection coming on, so I kept doing it. I figured I was at least avoiding infections, doctors, the expense of creams, etc.; albeit, not the most pleasant existance. In October of 1998, I started having the sensation that I had to urinate all the time, even after I just urinated, similar to having a bladder infection; which is what I assumed I had. When I went to the doctor, no infection was found. Then I started the going from doctor to doctor routine - ob/gyn, urologist, etc. I was told what ever I had was not caused by yeast infections or boric acid capsules. The doctors could not find anything wrong. I was frightened I had interstitial cystitus, but the urologist said I did not. I was miserable. Then after four months of this, the |
