Vaginal algometer: development and application of a device to monitor vaginal wall pressure pain threshold.

We describe a device (which we have named a vaginal algometer) which can measure the pressure pain threshold (PPT) on the lateral walls of the vagina. The device was assessed in 63 healthy women and a normal range for this measurement was established. Each woman had her vaginal wall PPT measured and was asked about the acceptability of the procedure. We demonstrate that the vaginal algometer can provide a quantitative assessment of vaginal PPT and that the procedure is acceptable to most women.