Chronic Pelvic Pain: EFUDEX (5FU) for Vulvadynia

What is this medication?

Why would I use this medication?

How do I use it?

What should I expect?

     Also See:

                   Chronic Pelvic Pain: Bladder Pain Treatment

                   Chronic Pelvic Pain: Trigger Point Injections

Return to Frequently Asked Questions Index

What is this medication?

Efudex or 5FU was designed as a medication for skin cancer. It blocks the ability of skin cells infected with a virus to reproduce.
 

Why would I use this medication?
 

Efudex 5% topical cream is used to kill off or suppress HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). This virus may cause skin changes at the vaginal opening. Frequently women with these skin changes experience burning or sharp pain. Many women feel better when the viral infection has been suppressed. However, the medication does not cure the viral infection.
 

How do I use it?

Spread the vaginal lips (labia minora) and apply about 1 tablespoon of the Efudex to the skin around the vaginal opening. There are glands in the skin of the labia. They have small pinpoint openings and secret fluids to moisten the skin. This keeps the skin healthy and adds slightly to lubrication with intercourse. Often the glands are irritated by HPV, so it is important to put the Efudex on these areas as best you can.
 

Leave the Efudex on for 2 hours. Then wash well with mild soap and lots of water. Be sure to wash between the skin folds. Repeat the application again in a few days. You should use it 2 times per week. Efudex can cause a burn if not washed off completely.
 

What should I expect?

Some women may have a burning sensation with this medicine. Some women don’t feel anything. It is hard to predict exactly how you will feel. If the pain or burning feeling is intense or troublesome, please call the office.
 

Return to Frequently Asked Questions Index