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Vulvar Diseases
What are vulvar diseases?
Vulvar diseases are quite common—approximately 15% of patients seen by a gynaecologist have one.
The vulva refers to the visible parts of the external female genitalia, including the clitoris, the vaginal lips and entrance to the vagina. There are many different diseases that can involve the vulva, such as infections, skin conditions, cancer, and chronic pain.
Many of these diseases have symptoms that are easy for health professionals to diagnose and treat. A handful of them may not have visible symptoms, making them difficult for even a seasoned doctor to identify. The vulvar pain condition called vulvodynia has been in medical literature since the 1980s, though its existence may still be unheard of by many doctors. That is why a woman who suffers from a chronic, long-term discomfort in the vulvar region may have to scout out a health professional who is familiar with these diseases to ensure she receives a proper diagnosis.
What type of infections can affect the vulva?
Most women have experienced a yeast infection. The symptoms typically are a red, swollen and itchy vulva. This can be associated with a heavy discharge that resembles cottage-cheese. However, it is unusual to have more than three yeast infections a year.
If you are suffering from constant vulvar itch you should see a physician for an examination. It is much more likely that you have a skin condition. Other common infections involving the vulvar are herpes infections and jock itch, a type of yeast.
What type of skin conditions can affect the vulva?
Any skin condition that affects skin in other parts of the body can also appear on the vulva. These include eczema, psoriasis, irritant dermatitis, lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, and lichen simplex chronicus. It is often difficult to diagnose specific skin conditions, as many share symptoms. Often a skin biopsy may be required to make a proper diagnosis.
Last Modified: October 28, 2008
