Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, loss of consciousness, or another immediate threat to safety.
These are not usual features of vulvodynia.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek a prompt appointment for a new lump, persistent sore, skin thickening, colour change, unusual discharge, bleeding after sex, or symptoms of an infection.
These findings are not typical of vulvodynia and need their own assessment.
Seek urgent medical care for:
Rapidly increasing redness or swelling, especially with fever
Severe new pain after an injury or procedure
Heavy bleeding, fainting, or feeling seriously unwell
Inability to pass urine
Severe symptoms during pregnancy
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if vulvar pain lasts for several weeks, keeps returning, or interferes with sitting, sleep, exercise, tampon use, sex, or examinations.
Earlier assessment can identify treatable causes, even before the three-month definition of vulvodynia is reached.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Vulvodynia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.