Some treatments that aren't part of standard medical care may help lessen vulvodynia symptoms. These include:

• Acupuncture. A trained practitioner places very fine needles into specific parts of the body.
• Hypnosis. A health professional guides you into a changed state of awareness that may help you relax and focus.
• Mindfulness and meditation. You can learn these techniques through self-instruction with practice and with apps.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. A device placed on the skin sends low-voltage electrical currents to the painful area.

Stress tends to make vulvodynia worse. And having vulvodynia can cause you to have more stress. Activities that can help ease stress include yoga and mindfulness mediation.