Vulva And Vaginal Disorders Specialist

What’s the difference between the vulva and the vagina?

Many people mistakenly think that the vulva and the vagina are one and the same, or they simply don’t know the difference between the two. In reality, the vulva and vagina are two separate parts of your genitalia:

Vulva

Your vulva is the external part of your sexual anatomy. You can see your vulva without using a speculum to open your vaginal canal. While everyone’s vulvas look a little different from one another, they all include labia majora (outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), and the tip of your clitoris. 

Vagina

Your vagina is the inside tube connecting your vaginal opening to your cervix. Your vagina is very flexible, enough so that you can give birth through it. 

What are some signs that I have a vulva or vaginal disorder?

Vulva and vaginal disorders are health complications affecting your vulva, vagina, or both. There are many varieties, including sexually transmitted diseases, bacterial infections, and inflammatory skin conditions. 

If you notice any irregularities with the way your vulva or vagina looks or feels, you should report them to V CARE OB/GYN right away. Common signs and symptoms associated with vulva and vagina disorders include:

• Itching
• Burning
• Bumps
• Lesions or sores
• Aching
• Soreness
• Swelling
• Changes in color
• Pain during sex
• Abnormal vaginal discharge

Vulva and vaginal disorders aren’t always predictable or preventable, and you shouldn’t feel ashamed if you get one. V CARE OB/GYN can help you find an effective treatment right away.

How are vulva and vaginal disorders treated?

Your treatment depends on the nature of your vulva or vaginal disorder and the type of symptoms you experience. After a review of your symptoms, a physical examination, and testing like blood tests or swab tests, your provider at V CARE OB/GYN can make an accurate diagnosis and develop your treatment plan. 

Possible treatments for vulvovaginal disorders include:

Antibiotics

If you have a bacterial infection affecting your vulva and vagina, your provider prescribes a round of antibiotics. They give you instructions to follow as you take them to alleviate the infection successfully and without complications.

Topical medications

Your provider may give you a cream or ointment to calm an inflammatory condition affecting your vulva or vagina. 

Hormone therapy

Your provider might recommend estrogen therapy as a treatment for certain vulva and vaginal disorders.

Surgery

In most cases, vulva and vaginal disorders are treatable with non-surgical measures only. However, your provider might recommend surgery in serious cases.  

If you have symptoms of a vulva or vaginal disorder and need an accurate diagnosis, call V CARE OB/GYN, or book your appointment online today.