Introduction Description: An imperforate hymen is the most commonly encountered anomaly that results from abnormalities in the development or canalization of the müllerian ducts. Prevalence: Uncommon. Thought to be 1/5000 live-born females. Predominant Age: Generally not diagnosed until puberty; occasionally…
Introduction Description: Hypertrophic vulvar dystrophy (lichen simplex chronicus) is a thickening of the vulvar skin over the labia majora, outer aspects of the labia minora, and clitoral areas. Eczematous inflammation or hyperkeratosis may be present. Prevalence: Common, 40%–45% of non-neoplastic…
Introduction Description: Hymenal stenosis is the thickening or narrowing of the hymenal opening, resulting in difficulty with tampon use and intercourse. Prevalence: Uncommon. Predominant Age: Congenital, although generally diagnosed in the early reproductive years. Genetics: No genetic pattern. Etiology and…
Introduction Description: A collection of symptoms and changes that occur in the female reproductive tract due to a lack of estrogen. Previously known as vulvovaginal atrophy, urogenital atrophy, or atrophic vaginitis. Prevalence: Occurs to some extent in 100% of postmenopausal…
Introduction Description: Female circumcision is the removal of part or all of the external genitalia, including the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, or all three. Female circumcision (female genital mutilation, infibulation, genital mutilation) is generally performed as a ritual process,…
Introduction Description: Pain that occurs with sexual penetration is insertional dyspareunia. This may be in the form of mild discomfort that may be tolerated, pain that completely prevents intromission, or any level of pain in between. In severe cases, pain…
Introduction Description: Contact vulvitis is characterized by vulvar irritation caused by contact with an irritant or allergen. Prevalence: Relatively common. Contact dermatitis accounts for roughly half of cases of vulvar itching. Predominant Age: Any, but most common in reproductive and…
Introduction Description: A chronic cystic dilation of the Bartholin gland and duct, generally secondary to past infection. Prevalence: 2% of adult women develop infection or enlargement of one or both Bartholin glands. Predominant Age: Of all Bartholin gland cysts, 85%…
Introduction Description: An infection may occur in one or both Bartholin glands, resulting in swelling and/or abscess formation. Usually, the process is unilateral and marked by pain and swelling. Systemic symptoms are minimal except in advanced cases. Prevalence: 2% of…
Introduction Description: In general, vulvar ulcers are deep defects through the epidermis into the dermis that generally heal with scarring; they are deeper than erosions. They may be of infectious or noninfectious origin. Acute aphthous ulcers (acute genital ulceration, Lipschütz…