Vulvar Dermatoses
Vulvar dermatoses are skin conditions affecting nearly one in five women. The condition(s) cause severe itching and sometimes pain in and around the woman's vulva (genitals).
About Vulvar Dermatoses
Skin disorders that affect the vulva (or external opening of the vagina), causing itching, burning and discomfort. These conditions can be fairly common affecting one in five women. Depending on the severity of the vulvar dermatoses, a woman's well-being as well as her physical and sexual function may be at risk. There are two types of vulvar dermatoses non-scarring (eg: contact dermatitis and lichen simplex chronicus) or scarring (eg: lichen sclerosus and lichen planus). In some post-menopausal women, vaginal dryness causing severe burning pain and pain with sex, may occur causing vulvar dermatoses to manifest. With some women, vulvar dermatoses may also present as a symptom of an ongoing chronic condition (eg: psoriasis, HPV) and cannot simply be treated locally, however management of vulvar dermatoses can be achieved through education and hygiene. Sometimes, these types may occur at the same time.
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Treating Vulvar Dermatoses
Physical examination of the vulva and other tests or screenings may be recommended to aid in proper diagnosis of vulvar dermatoses. Depending on the cause of your vulvar dermatoses, a variety of treatments may be recommended as a part of your care plan including removing certain products, such as scented soaps, wipes or certain contraceptive products, from use, as well as prescribing medications or pelvic floor physical therapy. Regardless of your treatment, your care team will work with you to understand the risk and benefits and what you can expect throughout your care and recovery. Treatment over a 3-4 month period of time is possible, but for some patients it may be of a longer duration if they do not respond to initial treatment or if there are other conditions to address. An experienced vulvar dermatologist will work with you and your provider to assess and create a personalized treatment plan for you.
Care Team Approach
Patients are cared for by a dedicated multidisciplinary care team, meaning you will benefit from the expertise of multiple specialists across a variety of disciplines. Our team of board-certified obstetricians and gynecologists, fellowship-trained subspecialists, pelvic floor physical therapists, advanced practice providers, and more work together to provide unparalleled care for patients every step of the way. We also work closely with referring physicians and other partners in the community to schedule and coordinate any additional care services you may need.
We collaborate with our colleagues at the Dell Medical School and The University of Texas at Austin to utilize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment techniques, allowing us to deliver comprehensive, compassionate care and provide a seamless experience for women from adolescence to menopause and beyond.
