Could It Be Hormonally Mediated Vestibulodynia (HMV)?

If your pain is concentrated at the vestibule (the area around the vaginal opening), and it worsens with penetration, tampons, or tight clothes, you might be experiencing Hormonally Mediated Vestibulodynia (HMV).
This condition is often misdiagnosed as chronic yeast or recurrent UTIs—but it won’t improve with antifungals or antibiotics. Instead, it requires hormone-aware treatment.

Signs Your Vulvar Pain Might Be Hormone-Related

Wondering if hormones are the culprit? Look for these common signs:

• Persistent vaginal or vulvar dryness

• Burning or stinging after sex, even with lube

• Pain that worsens during hormonal transitions (e.g., starting birth control, postpartum, menopause)

• Negative tests for yeast or bacterial infections

• Discomfort with tampons, leggings, or biking

How to Treat Hormone-Related Vulvar Pain

1. Topical Hormone Therapy

• Estrogen creams, gels, or suppositories help restore moisture and thickness

• Testosterone creams may be used to strengthen tissue and improve resilience

2. Lifestyle and Nutrition

• Stress management, regular movement, and hormone-supportive foods (like flaxseed and soy) can help

• Stay hydrated and avoid harsh soaps or products near the vulva

3. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

• Tight or protective pelvic muscles can worsen pain

• A pelvic PT can help release tension, improve blood flow, and restore comfort

4. Vulvar Moisturizers and Lubricants

• Daily vulvar moisturizers (e.g., coconut oil or specialized products)

• Use pH-balanced lubricants like Uberlube or My Personal Fav for sex or internal exams

5. Switching Contraception

• If birth control is contributing to your symptoms, consider non-hormonal options (e.g., copper IUD, condoms) or speak to your provider about supplementing with topical testosterone

You Don’t Have to Live with Vulvar Pain

Hormonal vulvar pain is real, common—and treatable.
You don’t have to wait for a provider to “figure it out,” and you don’t have to suffer in silence.