5 key points about vulvar dystrophy

If sex is no longer satisfying and a source of pain, vulvar dystrophy may be to blame. As a specialty care team with a unique level of expertise in urogynecology, Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology can help you reclaim the joy you get from sex with treatment options available at our four Chicago, Illinois, area offices. Led by Dr. Sanjay Gandhi, our team knows that you cannot understand appropriate interventions unless you understand the underlying conditions or root cause of your symptoms.

The following five key points about vulvar dystrophy provide a quick glimpse and broad insights into these conditions, and we can “fill in the gaps” in your knowledge and determine the best next steps you can feel confident about taking during a consultation.

No. 1: Vulvar + dystrophy = abnormal skin growth

“Vulvar” refers to the vulva or the external female genitalia. “Dystrophy” refers to a wasting, degeneration, weakening, or abnormal development of tissues or organs. So, in this context, we are referring to abnormalities in how the skin of the vulva grows.

No. 2: Types of vulvar dystrophy

This condition is largely characterized as lichen sclerosus, lichen simplex chronicus, and hypertrophic vulvar dystrophy/squamous cell hyperplasia. Other disorders affecting the vulva skin include folliculitis, lichen planus, contact dermatitis, and Bartholin gland cysts. Depending on the form of vulvar dystrophy, tissues may either become overly thin or overly thick.

No. 3: Symptoms

Other potential signs of vulvar dystrophy include scaling, cracking, sores, and gray or white discoloration. You may also experience an itching and/or burning sensation. Due to the build-up of thickened skin, the vaginal opening shrinks and, in turn, this situation contributes to pain and discomfort during sex.

No. 4: Detection

Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology is proud to offer the latest diagnostic testing. With an accurate understanding of the nature of vulvar dystrophy or related conditions, we can develop treatment plans or ways to manage symptoms to support relief and improve quality of life. We encourage patients to take notes, track their symptoms, and be open about any changes they have noticed. Patient insights are paired with a thorough physical exam. Urinary tests and biopsies of anomalous tissue may be ordered to rule out problems such as yeast infections.

No. 5: Next steps

If we diagnose vulvar dystrophy, many things can be done to ease your symptoms. Practice good care by using unscented and gentle soaps and hygiene products. Avoid wearing fabrics that do not let the affected area “breathe.” You may also need to explore alternative contraceptive methods, as spermicides can be irritants right alongside the likes of scented toilet papers, bubble baths, and laundry detergents. Creams, ointments, medications (Amitriptyline), and sitz baths may also be available and can reduce itchiness. To take the first step, schedule your consultation at one of our four Chicago, IL locations in Park City, Lake Forest, Woodstock, and the Far North Side. We welcome your call to (844) 327-1188 today. 

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