Winning Woman

What exactly is vulvodynia?

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Sunday, May 17th, 2020

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If a diagnosis of vulvodynia has left you feeling puzzled and distressed, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone, because there are many other women out there suffering from the condition. But what exactly is vulvodynia, and what causes it?

What exactly is vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia refers to pain, discomfort and burning around the opening of the vagina. Vulva pain that lasts for upwards of 3 months and is not linked to a specific medical condition such as an infection or skin disorder is classified as vulvodynia. The pain with vulvodynia is often so debilitating that it affects the overall quality of life.

Vulvodynia pain can be constant or it may be triggered by touch or pressure. The latter is known as provoked vulvodynia, and it can impact a woman’s ability to have sexual intercourse. In addition to pain with intercourse, some women experience discomfort when sitting for long periods, inserting or removing a tampon, or walking.

Other symptoms of vulvodynia include irritation, rawness, and stinging. Vulvodynia can affect women of any age.

What causes vulvodynia?

Vulvodynia does not have an identifiable cause, but there are vulvovaginal specialists that have done research into the condition. Dr. R. Stuart Fowler, of Fowler GYN International, is a leading specialist in vulvovaginal health and treats many women with vulvodynia. After years of clinical research, Dr. Fowler has recognized that women with vulvodynia tend to have an altered vaginal microflora (learn more).

The normal vaginal microflora contains a variety of good and bad bacteria, but the good bacteria usually outnumber the bad. As a result, the vaginal secretions that bathe the vaginal mucosa perform a protective role. However, if there is a shift in the balance of bacteria it can cause the bad bacteria to thrive. The resulting vaginal secretions can irritate the vaginal tissues, and cause symptoms such as burning, irritation, and itching.

Are you experiencing vaginal pain that has no clear cause? Contact the experts in vaginal care at Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ for a consultation.

You can reach them at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001.

What are the symptoms of vulvar vestibulitis?

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Sunday, May 17th, 2020

· No Comments

If you have been experiencing unexplained vulvar pain for more than 3 months, you may have vulvar vestibulitis. Vulvar vestibulitis or vulvodynia is a vulvovaginal syndromecharacterized by intense pain in the vulva. However, there’s been a lack of quality research on vulvar vestibulitis, so the symptoms are often not recognized.

What are the symptoms of vulvar vestibulitis?

Pain around the opening of the vagina (vulva) is the primary symptom of vulvar vestibulitis. The pain is often consistent and chronic andends up lasting months or years for most women. Vulvodynia pain is often described as stinging, aching, stabbing,or burning, and is generally accompanied by feelings of soreness, rawness, and irritation.

Women with vulvar vestibulitis experience extreme discomfort during intercourse, and even inserting a tampon or sitting for long periods can be painful.

A diagnosis of vulvar vestibulitis is generally made after other possible causes of vulva pain such as infection and skin disease, have been ruled out.

What causes vulvar vestibulitis?

Doctors are not sure what causes vulvar vestibulitis, but possible causes include irritation, and sensitive nerve endings.

Dr. R. Stuart Fowler of GYN international has done extensive research into vulvovaginal issues, and discovered that women with these syndromes usually have an altered vaginal microflora pattern.

An altered vaginal microflora pattern is one that differs from the known patterns of flora, and is typically characterized by a proliferation of the ‘bad’ strain of bacteria in the vagina. The secretions that spring from the altered flora pattern bathe the tissues around the opening of the vagina, resulting is symptoms such as burning, irritation, and itching.

Have you been experiencing symptoms of vulvar vestibulitis? Contact the experts in vaginal care at Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ for a consultation.

You can reach them at fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001.

What are the symptoms of peri-vaginal hypopigmentation?

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Sunday, April 26th, 2020

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Are you struggling with unexplained vulvovaginal symptoms that have been diagnosed as peri-vaginal hypopigmentation? Depigmentation disorders of the vulva can be difficult to diagnose and even more difficult to manage because they are often not well understood. But what are the symptoms of peri-vaginal hypopigmentation, and how is it treated.

What are the symptoms of peri-vaginal hypopigmentation?

Peri-vaginal hypopigmentation is characterized by the whitening of the peri-vaginal tissues. The whitening of the skin may be uneven or occur in a symmetric manner. Peri-vaginal hypopigmentation is associated with a condition known as vulvar lichen sclerosus. Other symptoms of lichen sclerosus include itching of the vaginal skin, as well as tiny slits or cracks in the skin.

Women with peri-vaginal hypopigmentation may also notice that the vaginal skin feels sticky, and becomes thin and wrinkly. If the condition is not treated, it can also cause the lips of the vagina i.e. the labia majora (large lips) and the labia minora (small lips), to fuse. This usually occurs at the base of the vagina. The fusion of the vaginal lips can cause the vaginal opening to shrink, and this can result in the tearing of the tissue during intercourse, or when inserting a tampon.

Peri-vaginal hypopigmentation is a chronic condition, but it is not contagious.

Treating peri-vaginal hypopigmentation

Medical experts are not sure what causes peri-vaginal hypopigmentation, and although it cannot be cured, it can be successfully managed with a treatment protocol that includes low potency corticosteroids.

If you are experiencing symptoms of peri-vaginal hypopigmentation, it’s important to consult with a vulvovaginal specialist for a precise diagnosis. The experts in vaginal care at Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ can carry out the evaluation you need.

You can call them at (480) 420-4001 for a consultation, or go to fowlergyninternational.com/contact-us, to request a free pre-registration call.

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Saturday, April 18th, 2020

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Most women get a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime, but it is generally easily treated. However, there are times the symptoms of a yeast infection return soon after they’ve been resolved. But in order to ensure the most effective treatment, it’s important to properly identify the symptoms of a yeast infection.

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

Itching in the vagina and vulva is one of the primary symptoms of a yeast infection. Other symptoms include burning with urination, burning during intercourse, soreness, vaginal rash, as well as a thick vaginal discharge.

Chronic yeast infections

When symptoms of yeast infections persist and tests indicate that yeast is not the underlying factor, the problem may be due to an altered vaginal microflora pattern.

The vaginal microflora consists of strains of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria as well as some yeast, but the good bacteria are usually dominant. However, if there is a shift in the bacterial flora, it can result in an overgrowth of yeast. There are several factors that can lead to a change in the makeup of the bacterial flora. These include smoking, stress, and the onset of menopause (learn more).

Treating symptoms of a yeast infection

Symptoms that are caused by an altered microflora pattern can be treated with a treatment protocol of medications and hypocontactant skincare products. An altered vaginal microflora pattern can be diagnosed with a vaginal fluid analysis (VFA) test.

The VFA test was developed by Dr. R. Stuart Fowler, board-certified gynecologist, and founder of Fowler GYN International. The VFA test is an advanced diagnostic tool that identifies the constituents of the vaginal microflora.

Are you experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection? Contact the experts in vaginal care at Fowler GYN for a consultation.

You can reach them at (480) 420-4001, or go to www.fowlergyninternational.com/contact-us, to request a free pre-registration call.

Is painful intercourse a sign of something more?

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Friday, April 10th, 2020

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Intercourse is normally pleasurable and enjoyable, so if you are experiencing painful intercourse it is certainly not normal. However, if doctors have been unable to diagnose the underlying cause, it could be the sign of something more.

Is painful intercourse a sign of something more?

If you have been having painful intercourse for more than 3 months it could be a sign of vulvodynia.

Vulvodynia is a syndrome characterized by unexplained pain around the opening of the vagina. The pain is chronic for some women, and as a result it interrupts their normal lifestyle, and they even find it difficult to sit or walk comfortably.

Other symptoms of vulvodynia include irritation, rawness, stinging, and burning in the vaginal area (click here to learn more).

What causes vulvodynia?

The symptoms associated with vulvodynia are often the result of an altered vaginal microflora pattern.

The vaginal microflora normally contains a combination of strains of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria, but there are typically more good bacteria, which provide an effective defense against infection. However, if there is a shift in the normal balance, it can cause the bad bacteria to multiply. When this occurs, the vaginal secretions that emanate from the vaginal fluid cause a range of symptoms linked to vulvodynia.

Treating vulvodynia

Vulvodynia can be treated effectively when an altered vaginal microflora pattern has been detected. This can be done with the help of a vaginal fluid analysis (VFA) test.

The VFA test was developed by Dr. R. Stuart Fowler of Fowler GYN International (FGI). The test identifies the vaginal constituents, and a customized treatment plan is used to return the microflora to normal. Once this has been achieved, the symptoms of vulvodynia will resolve. It can take 4-8 months to see results.

Are you experiencing painful intercourse? Contact the experts in vaginal healthcare at Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ, for a consultation.

You can reach them at www.fowlergyninternational.com/contact-us, or by calling (480) 420-4001.

How to determine if vaginal pain is doctor-visit worthy

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Friday, April 10th, 2020

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Most women experience the occasional episode of vaginal pain, which is not usually a source of distress. Nevertheless, there are times when vaginal pain may be the sign of a more serious condition, so it’s important to know when to see a doctor.

How to determine if vaginal pain is doctor-visit worthy

If you have vaginal pain, you should visit your doctor if:

The pain is persistent. If you have been experiencing vaginal pain for 3 months or more, it’s probably the result of a chronic condition and won’t go away on its own.
There are other symptoms. Vaginal pain that is accompanied by abnormal discharge, odor, or symptoms such as itching, irritation, soreness, and rawness, should be a cause for concern.
Regular painkillers don’t help. If your vaginal pain is so severe that regular painkillers don’t provide any relief, it’s best to have it checked.
Intercourse is painful and uncomfortable. When vaginal pain is so bad that it makes intercourse uncomfortable and starts to affect your relationship, it’s time to visit your doctor.
There is a hypersensitivity. The vaginal area is normally sensitive, but if the entire vulva region becomes hypersensitive to pressure or touch, it’s best to book an appointment with your healthcare provider.

What’s causing your vaginal pain?

Vaginal pain that does not have an identifiable cause and lasts for at least 3 months may be due to vulvodynia. However, it’s important to get a correct diagnosis for your vaginal pain, by visiting a vulvovaginal specialist that successfully treats women with vaginal pain syndromes.

Are you experiencing unexplained vaginal pain? Contact the experts in vaginal care at Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ for a consultation.

You can reach them at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001.

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Sunday, March 22nd, 2020

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Are you thinking about having laser hair removal because you don’t want to worry about shaving anymore? You’re not alone. Many people are now turning to laser hair removal because it’s a convenient, effective way to manage unwanted hair growth. But how much does laser hair removal cost?

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses laser light to remove unwanted hair from the face and body. The light energy targets the pigment in the hair follicle and generates heat that damages the hair growth center, and inhibits future hair growth.

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of laser hair removal is about $285 per session. However, prices may differ significantly from the average due to the influence of several factors.

Factors That Affect The Cost of Laser Hair Removal

Size of the area. Larger areas such as the legs and back, are generally more expensive to treat when compared to smaller areas like the underarms or bikini line because they need more treatment time.
Number of sessions required. Depending on the size of the treatment area, it may take 4-7 sessions to achieve optimal hair reduction. The more treatments required the higher the cost is likely to be.
Type of Laser Used. There are multiple laser technologies available for laser hair removal and modern, state-of-the-art lasers might cost more.

The level of experience of the provider, geographic location of the practice, skin type, and hair density can also affect the cost of laser hair removal.

Interested in learning more about laser hair removal? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the greater Melbourne and Palm Bay, FL areas, The Refinery MedSpa, West Melbourne, FL is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.refinerymedspa.com, or by calling 321-339-1001.

Can I get breast implants with a breast lift?

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Sunday, March 15th, 2020

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Are you considering breast rejuvenation surgery? Breast augmentation with implants and breast lift surgery are two of the most popular breast rejuvenation procedures performed in the US each year. However, women considering breast surgery often want to know if they can get breast implants with a breast lift.

Breast augmentation with implants vs breast lift surgery

Weight loss, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and aging are some of the factors that can change the size and shape of the breasts. While breast augmentation with implants and breast lift surgery can both improve the appearance of the breasts, they are very different procedures.

Breast augmentation with implants increases the size and fullness of the breasts. The procedure is done to address loss of volume, but does not elevate severely sagging breasts.

A breast lift is designed to uplift and reshape sagging breasts, so it gives them a perky, youthful appearance. However, the procedure does not alter the size of the breasts.

Can I get breast implants with a breast lift?

Yes, you can certainly get breast implants with a breast lift to enhance and shape the breasts.

When do I need breast implants with a breast lift?

If you have sagging breasts and would like more volume, breast implants with a breast lift may be the ideal option. Although breast implants alone can give the breasts a subtle lift in some cases, significant sagging can only be addressed with a breast lift.

Would you like to learn more about breast implants with a breast lift? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Naperville area and western Suburbs of Chicago, The John Bull Center for Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Medispa is our featured practice.

You can reach them at www.dupageplastics.com, or by calling (630) 407-1148.

How much does Breast augmentation cost

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Saturday, March 7th, 2020

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Are you contemplating breast augmentation? If you’re like most patients, one critical question you would like answered about the procedure is – How much does breast augmentation cost. Knowing this is essential, because breast augmentation is usually not covered by insurance, so you will have to research the financing plans available, and select the right option for you.

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that is done to increase the size of the breasts. This typically involves the placement of silicone or saline breast implants. Silicone implants contain silicone gel, whereas saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater.

How much does breast augmentation cost

According to 2018 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of breast augmentation surgery is $3,824. However, that figure does not include other expenses such as the surgical facility fee, anesthesia fee, and the cost of associated medical tests. Other factors such as the surgical technique used, as well as the implant choice, can affect the final cost of breast augmentation.

The skill and experience of the surgeon will also impact the cost of breast augmentation. It is always best to choose a highly qualified plastic surgeon with a reputation for achieving beautiful, natural-looking breast augmentation results. Patients should never choose a plastic surgeon based on price alone.

If you are considering breast augmentation, you will have to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for a personalized fee quote. However, before moving forward with surgery, be sure to verify what’s included in the fees quoted.

Would you like to learn more about breast augmentation cost? Search our directory to find a practice in your area.

If you are in the Las Vegas, NV area, Stile Aesthetics is our featured practice.

You can reach them at drstile.com or by calling 702-243-9555.

How does vaginitis start and what can I do to stop it

Posted by The Winning Woman

· Saturday, March 7th, 2020

· No Comments

Vaginitis is a common condition that can affect women of any age. The symptoms of vaginitis can range from annoying to chronic, depending on the underlying cause. But how does vaginitis start and what can you do to stop it.

How does vaginitis start?

Vaginitis is a condition that is characterized by vaginal pain, itching, irritation, burning, and discharge. There are different types of vaginitis, but the condition occurs because of an altered vaginal microflora pattern.

The vaginal micro-flora ecosystem consists of numerous strains of bacteria, but there are generally enough good bacteria to protect the vagina, and prevent an infection. However, problems can arise if the bacteria milieu changes and the bad bacteria end up dominating the vaginal ecosystem. These changes create an altered microflora pattern, which is often the source of vaginitis.

The vaginal secretions that emanate from an altered microflora pattern can irritate the tissues around the vaginal opening, causing the symptoms associated with vaginitis.

What can be done to stop vaginitis?

In order to stop vaginitis, the specific altered vaginal microflora pattern must first be identified. Dr. R. Stuart Fowler of Fowler GYN International developed the vaginal fluid analysis (VFA) test, to detect the presence of an altered vaginal microflora state. The VFA test delivers a quantitative analysis of the constituents of the vaginal fluid.

Patients that have an altered vaginal microflora pattern are typically treated with a customized treatment protocol that combines medication, and a system of hypocontactant skincare products. This restores the natural balance of the microflora ecosystem, and after about 6-8 months the symptoms of vaginitis will resolve.

Are you experiencing symptoms of vaginitis? Contact the experts in vaginal healthcare at Fowler GYN International, Paradise Valley, AZ for a consultation.

You can reach them at www.fowlergyninternational.com/contact-us, or by calling (480) 420-4001.

Winning Woman

What exactly is vulvodynia?

What exactly is vulvodynia?

What causes vulvodynia?

What are the symptoms of vulvar vestibulitis?

What are the symptoms of vulvar vestibulitis?

What causes vulvar vestibulitis?

What are the symptoms of peri-vaginal hypopigmentation?

What are the symptoms of peri-vaginal hypopigmentation?

Treating peri-vaginal hypopigmentation

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

Chronic yeast infections

Treating symptoms of a yeast infection

Is painful intercourse a sign of something more?

Is painful intercourse a sign of something more?

What causes vulvodynia?

Treating vulvodynia

How to determine if vaginal pain is doctor-visit worthy

How to determine if vaginal pain is doctor-visit worthy

What’s causing your vaginal pain?

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost

Laser Hair Removal

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost

Factors That Affect The Cost of Laser Hair Removal

Can I get breast implants with a breast lift?

Breast augmentation with implants vs breast lift surgery

Can I get breast implants with a breast lift?

When do I need breast implants with a breast lift?

How much does Breast augmentation cost

Breast augmentation

How much does breast augmentation cost

How does vaginitis start and what can I do to stop it

How does vaginitis start?

What can be done to stop vaginitis?

Women’s Articles from Real Self

Recent Winning Woman Posts:

What exactly is vulvodynia?

What causes vulvodynia?

What are the symptoms of vulvar vestibulitis?

What causes vulvar vestibulitis?

What are the symptoms of peri-vaginal hypopigmentation?

Treating peri-vaginal hypopigmentation

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

Chronic yeast infections

Treating symptoms of a yeast infection

Is painful intercourse a sign of something more?

What causes vulvodynia?

Treating vulvodynia

How to determine if vaginal pain is doctor-visit worthy

What’s causing your vaginal pain?

Laser Hair Removal

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost

Factors That Affect The Cost of Laser Hair Removal

Breast augmentation with implants vs breast lift surgery

Can I get breast implants with a breast lift?

When do I need breast implants with a breast lift?

Breast augmentation

How much does breast augmentation cost

How does vaginitis start?

What can be done to stop vaginitis?

Recent Winning Woman Posts:

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