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Vulvar and Vaginal Health
New Patient Appointment or 214-645-8300
UT Southwestern dermatologists and gynecologists provide exceptional care for those living with vulvovaginal conditions, including vulvar skin issues and vaginal symptoms from menopause and perimenopause.
In a comfortable office setting, we develop personalized treatment plans to address the whole patient.
Personalized Care for Women of All Ages
Many common conditions can affect the vagina (the canal that connects the internal and external female reproductive organs) and vulva (the external female genital area), causing irritation and discomfort. Many vulvovaginal issues can lead to problems with sexual desire and enjoyment as well as overall well-being.
At UT Southwestern, we have regional, national, and international leaders focused on vulvovaginal health. Our multidisciplinary team includes dermatologists, gynecologists, and other specialists who are members of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD) and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH), which helps us offer experienced care using the latest treatment options.
Vulvar Skin Conditions
Many women experience vulval discomfort and irritation. At UT Southwestern, we treat a variety of conditions that affect the vulva including:
- Lichen sclerosus, a chronic skin disorder that causes itchy white patches of skin in the genital area, often in postmenopausal women
- Lichen planus, an autoimmune disorder that causes itching on the body, as well as erosions and painful swelling in mucous membranes (such as the vulva or mouth)
- Genital warts, a sexually transmitted infection caused by certain types of human papillomavirus, characterized by small bumps on the vulva, vagina, or anus
- Psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that causes inflamed, scaly skin
- Vulvodynia, chronic pain in the vulva that has no known cause
- Irritant and allergic contact dermatitis (types of eczema), conditions that cause the vulva to become itchy, red, and painful after it’s exposed to an irritant
- Hidradenitis suppurativa, a condition that causes painful lumps under the skin
Menopause and Sexual Health
We also have experts treating patients in perimenopause and menopause. Often these conditions can cause vaginal symptoms such as:
- Atrophic vaginitis, thinning of the vaginal walls caused by low levels of estrogen
- Incontinence
- Sexual desire and changes in libido
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
Diagnosing Vulva and Vaginal Conditions
At UT Southwestern, we have both dermatologists and gynecologists who treat patients with vulvar conditions.
We begin each visit with a thorough evaluation, which includes a discussion of a patient’s medical history as well as symptoms.
During the first visit to UT Southwestern, patients will see a physician or physician assistant for diagnosis and treatment plan development. We work together to make sure patients see the provider who is best suited to help their condition. If additional diagnostic tests are necessary, we may refer a patient to another specialist.
Clinical Trials for Vulva and Vaginal Conditions
As an academic medical center, UT Southwestern seeks to improve understanding of vulvovaginal conditions and develop new treatments. We participate in clinical trials as part of this mission.
For example, Dr. Melissa Mauskar is involved in a study of a new treatment for lichen sclerosus.
For more information, ask one of our providers about current vulvovaginal clinic trials.
Related Conditions and Treatments
Award-Winning Care
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Professional Office Building 2
5939 Harry Hines Blvd.Dallas, Texas 75390 214-645-8300 Directions to Professional Office Building 2, Dallas Parking Info for Professional Office Building 2
Gynecology
at UT Southwestern Frisco 12500 Dallas Parkway, 4th FloorFrisco, Texas 75033 469-604-9180 Directions to Gynecology at UT Southwestern Frisco, Frisco Parking Info for Gynecology