Pregabalin for the Treatment of Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a condition exclusive to women and involves mostly burning, rawness, and
itching of the external genitourinary tract that often results in painful intercourse.
Vulvodynia rarely results in severe morbidity or mortality; rather it causes symptoms of the
lower genital, urinary, and gastrointestinal tracts that can impact a woman's daily
activities and negatively affect her quality of life.

Despite the fact that chronic vulvovaginal symptoms are one of the most common reasons for
visits to a gynecology clinic, epidemiologic studies of the incidence and prevalence of
these conditions are rare and available population-based studies are limited. Approximately
16% of women will experience chronic vulvar pain at some point in their lifetime; with 5%
experiencing this condition before age 25.

Treatment approaches include behavioral changes, medical management, and surgery,
specifically vulvar vestibulectomy. Prior to considering surgical intervention, all
medical treatment options should be exhausted. Although vulvodynia is quite prevalent and
can be a debilitating disease, there are few studies that critically evaluate the medical
management of vulvodynia. Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant that has proven efficacy in the
treatment of diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, and fibromyalgia. Anecdotal data
and one case report provide hope that this medication may also be effective in the treatment
of vulvodynia.