Vulvar discomfort or pain affects millions of women each year, yet few are aware of the treatment options available. Our providers at Women's Health Connecticut are experienced in the care and treatment of women with disorders of the vulva and vagina, including vulvodynia, vaginismus, and chronic vaginitis.

If you are experiencing vulvar pain, discomfort, itching, or burning, request an appointment today. Our experts have the training, knowledge, and experience needed to accurately diagnose and effectively treat vulvar and vaginal disorders, providing much-needed relief from these often painful, uncomfortable, and challenging conditions.

The vulva is the external part of the female genital area, including the labia (majora and minora—the outer folds of skin), the opening of the vagina and urethra, clitoris, mons pubis, and anus. Your vulvar health is important; pain or discomfort may indicate underlying issues. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as genital herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV), can appear on the vulva as sores or warts. It's essential to monitor the health of your vulva and make an appointment if you notice any changes or experience pain, sores, abnormal discharge or odor, or inflammation.

Our providers can diagnose and treat several vulvar conditions.

Bacteria, viruses, foreign bodies, or sexual intercourse can cause infections of the vulva. These infections may cause inflammation in the vagina, but you often feel the symptoms (itching, pain, and soreness) in both the vagina and vulva.

Commonly known as a “yeast infection,” vulvovaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida in the vagina and vulva. The infection is contagious and can be transmitted via sexual intercourse. Symptoms include intense itching, burning, soreness, a thick white cottage cheese-like discharge, and pain during urination and sexual intercourse. Treatment options typically involve antifungal medications in oral tablets or topical creams.

BV shares several symptoms with yeast infections, such as itching, soreness, and abnormal discharge with an odor, but requires prescribed antibiotics to treat. Causes include frequent intercourse, medications, or lifestyle choices like bubble baths or hot tubs. 60% of vaginal infections are BV, but many people mistakenly use OTC yeast infection treatments which are ineffective.

Inflammation caused by a virus, such as an STI like herpes or HPV, presents as painful sores or warts on the vulva.

Refers to vaginal irritation without an infection being present, usually due to an allergic reaction to hygiene products or clothing.

Vulvodynia is chronic (lasting three months or longer) pain or discomfort of the vulva without any discernible cause. The pain may be constant or come and go, and may be triggered by exercise, sexual intercourse, or simply sitting. Vulvodynia pain ranges from burning and itching to stabbing or aching.

We do not know what causes vulvodynia, but we do know it's not a sign of cancer or an STI. It may be due to genetics, other underlying infections, allergies, damage to the vulva nerves, or hormonal changes.

GSM (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause) is the term for vaginal and urinary symptoms caused by thinning vaginal walls. As women age, declining levels of estrogen can cause vaginal walls to thin, become drier, and become inflamed, particularly around the menopausal and postmenopausal years. GSM symptoms include:

• Painful sexual intercourse
• Burning with urination
• Frequent or urgent urination
• Vaginal dryness and burning

Treatments include ointments and creams and low-dose estrogen delivered topically.

Vulvar skin can be sensitive and prone to inflammation, dryness, or other issues. Several skin conditions may affect the vulva, including:

• Vulvar dermatitis (lichen simplex): This condition can be caused by a reaction to certain scented hygiene products or clothing. People with eczema or sensitive skin are more prone to it. The skin becomes red, painful, and itchy.
• Lichen sclerosus: A rare skin disease that causes inflamed, itchy, and painful patches of white, wrinkled-looking skin. It is more common in post-menopausal women.
• Psoriasis: May cause dryness and thickening of the vulvar skin.

Depending on your condition, your provider may prescribe antihistamines, topical ointments, or instructions to avoid external irritants.

You don't have to live with discomfort, inflammation, or pain. The experienced, compassionate providers at Women's Health Connecticut are here to help you. With 90 offices across Connecticut, accessing the support you need has never been easier. Make an appointment today to take the first step toward relief and better health.