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.