WHO?
If you are at least 18 years old, and if you have been diagnosed with Vulvodynia for at least 6 months you might be an appropriate candidate for these research studies. You can participate in more than one study, if you wish. If you are pregnant or if you had a hysterectomy you are not a candidate for these studies.

WHAT?
Research Study 1: If you decide to participate in this research study you will be asked to come to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore for an evaluation, which will take approximately 3 hours. - Women who are between the ages 18 and 45, have regular menstrual cycles or are on birth control medication can participate in this study. - Women who are post-menopausal and had their last menstrual period at least 12 months ago can participate in these studies. Both, women who are on hormone replacement therapy and women who are not taking hormone replacement therapy may participate.

Research Study 2: If you decide to participate in this study you will be asked to do a pain evaluation at home every day for 4 months. - Women who are between the ages 18 and 45, have regular menstrual cycles or are on birth control medication can participate in this study.

BENEFITS?
This is not a treatment study, and you are not expected to receive any direct medical benefits from your participation in the study. The information in this research study will add to our understanding of vulvodynia. This information may lead to better pain management techniques in the future for women with vulvodynia. You will receive a honorarium for participation.

If you are interested in participating in this study or would like more information, please contact:
Dr. Ursula Wesselmann,
Johns Hopkins Hospital,
Department of Neurology
(410) 614-4517
e-mail: women@bme.jhu.edu

Principal Investigator: Ursula Wesselmann, M.D., Associate Professor, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University Support: National Institutes of Health (NIH/NICHD), National Vulvodynia Association