Question
I have this condition, it's a raw, burning pain at the opening of the vagina (the vestibule) and only hurts while sexually active and during pap smears.  It's really excrutiating!  I can use lidocaine gel/liquid to numb the area, but it only lasts so long, and I want something more permanent so I don't have to think about it every time I want to....you know what.  Just wondering if there was a certain herb that may help.  Thank you, nikki

Answer
Hi Nikki and thanks for writing,

According to http://obgyn.uihc.uiowa.edu/patinfo/Vulvar/vestibulitis.htm:

Treatment for vulvar vestibulitis?

Treatment may include any of the following:
Follow the Guidelines for Vulvar Skin Care.
Steroid Ointments

How it is used: A thin layer is applied to the areas of discomfort.

How it Works: Decreases redness, irritation, and burning.
Caution: Use only as prescribed by your doctor. Overuse may result in thinning of the skin which will make your problem worse rather than helping it.

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) may be used in some cases as determined by the severity of the symptoms you have. TCA is a chemical that is used to destroy small areas of the irritated skin allowing new healthy skin to grow in its place.
Interferon Injections are used to increase your body's response to infection.
Surgery or Laser is used to remove involved skin areas. This method is not recommended.

Helpful treatment hints:

A and D Ointment
How it is used: Apply to the areas of discomfort.
How it Works: Protects the skin, decreases irritation, heals, and soothes.

Lidocaine Gel may be prescribed after initial treatment.
How it is used: Apply to the areas of discomfort.
How it Works: Numbs areas before intercourse.
Caution: After applying, wait until area becomes less sensitive before intercourse. Burning may occur for a short time (5 to 10 mins.) after the gel is applied.

Witch Hazel Pads (TUCS Pads)
How it is used: Apply to the areas of discomfort.
How it Works: Decreases burning and irritation after intercourse and urinating.

Cleansing Bottle
Pour plain luke-warm water over the vulva after urinating to remove urine from irritated area.

Calcium Citrate Tablets
How it is used: Take orally 1200-1800mg. elemental calcium every day.
How it Works: Thought to decrease certain crystals in the urine which may cause burning.

Cranberry Juice
How it is used: Drink an 8oz. glass every day.
How it Works: Increases the acid content of the urine to decrease bladder irritation.

Limit High Oxalate Foods
May decrease amount of oxalate crystals in urine. Oxalate crystals cause urinary symptoms such as the urge to urinate frequently or suddenly.

Baking Soda Soak
Soak in luke warm bath water with 4 to 5 tablespoons of baking soda to help soothe vulvar itching and burning. Soak 1 to 3 times a day for 10 to 15 minutes. If you are using a sitz bath, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of baking soda.

Of course you need toconsult with your physician before trying any of these treatments.

I hope this helps and I wish you good health,

Margot