{"paper_id":"dadf88e5-75d3-444a-9793-abb56cd9fdf6","body_text":"Chronic Pelvic Pain\nVulvovaginal Pain—Difficult to Diagnose; Difficult to Treat\n- Insiyyah Patanwala\n- Josef Jackson\n- Laura Douglass\nClinical Obstetrics & Gynecology 69(4):p 397-401, December 2026. | DOI: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000001047\nVulvovaginal pain disorders can manifest with varying symptomology and can take years to diagnose and even longer to treat. Given the nature and location of the pain, these disorders can significantly affect interpersonal relationships and quality of life. Therapy options range from behavioral interventions to medications and minimally invasive procedures, and in rare cases surgery. The following review covers common etiologies of vulvovaginal pain, evaluation strategies, currently used treatments and promising future therapies.\nVulvovaginal pain disorders are often complex, can present with different symptoms, and may take years to diagnose and manage. Because the pain involves the vulva and vagina, it can strongly impact sexual function, interpersonal relationships, and overall quality of life. This review summarizes common causes of vulvovaginal pain and outlines recommended strategies for clinical evaluation. It also describes current treatment options, including behavioral therapies, topical and systemic medications, minimally invasive procedures, and, in rare cases, surgery. Finally, the review highlights emerging therapies and research directions aimed at improving diagnosis, symptom control, and long-term outcomes for affected individuals.\nText is machine generated and may contain inaccuracies. FAQ\nCopyright © 2026 Wolters Kluwer Health, LLC. All rights reserved.","source_license":"CC0","license_restricted":false}