Vulvar Pain: Aging, Inflammation, and Your Concerns

Q: Vulvar Pain: Aging, Inflammation, and Your Concerns

Hello： Your condition may be atrophic vaginitis and vulvitis, which is caused by the thinning of the vaginal and vulvar epithelium due to a lack of hormones after menopause. <br>Treatment typically involves the use of estrogen vaginal creams, which can improve the symptoms. <br>H

Worry, fear

Hello Doctor: Ten days ago, I felt swelling and itching in one of my labia minora.
The next day, there was a small hard spot on the edge that stopped itching but became painful.
I consulted a doctor who informed me that it was inflammation with skin breakdown and prescribed medication (pain relievers, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs).
However, it has not improved and seems to be getting worse.
I then visited another hospital where the doctor diagnosed it as pain due to thinning skin caused by aging.
I don't understand...
Please answer my questions: 1.
Can aging cause skin thinning and pain? Is this common for women? 2.
I am experiencing pain not only in my genital area but also a stinging sensation when urinating (not in the urethra but near the urethral opening), which is very distressing.
3.
Could this be some other unusual condition? I am very worried and scared, so I would appreciate a prompt response! Thank you.

amy, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/24

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Your condition may be atrophic vaginitis and vulvitis, which is caused by the thinning of the vaginal and vulvar epithelium due to a lack of hormones after menopause.
Treatment typically involves the use of estrogen vaginal creams, which can improve the symptoms.
However, there are contraindications for hormone use, and a physician's examination is necessary to confirm this diagnosis.
Therefore, please seek medical attention.
Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2005/10/24

More Info

Vulvar pain can be a distressing condition, particularly when it is accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, itching, and discomfort during urination. Your concerns are valid, and it is important to understand the underlying causes of your symptoms, especially in the context of aging and inflammation.

1. Aging and Skin Changes: As women age, particularly during and after menopause, hormonal changes lead to a decrease in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and elasticity of the vaginal and vulvar tissues. With lower estrogen levels, the skin in these areas can become thinner, drier, and more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. This thinning of the skin can indeed lead to pain and discomfort, making it more sensitive to friction, infection, or other irritants. It is not uncommon for many women to experience these changes as they age, and it can lead to conditions such as vulvar vestibulitis or vulvodynia, which are characterized by chronic pain in the vulvar area.

2. Pain During Urination: The pain you are experiencing during urination, especially if it feels like a sharp or stinging sensation near the urethral opening, can be related to several factors. It could be due to inflammation of the vulvar tissues, which can cause referred pain to the urethra. Additionally, if there is any irritation or infection present, it could exacerbate the pain during urination. Conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infections) could also contribute to these symptoms. It is essential to rule out these possibilities through appropriate testing and examination.

3. Other Potential Conditions: While your symptoms may be related to aging and inflammation, it is also important to consider other potential conditions that could be causing your pain. These may include infections (bacterial or fungal), skin conditions (such as lichen sclerosus or lichen planus), or even allergic reactions to products such as soaps, detergents, or personal care items. If your symptoms have worsened despite treatment, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or further evaluation from a specialist, such as a gynecologist or a dermatologist specializing in vulvar disorders.

In terms of management, it is crucial to follow your physician's recommendations regarding medications for pain relief, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory treatments. Additionally, consider lifestyle modifications such as wearing breathable cotton underwear, avoiding irritants (like scented products), and maintaining proper hygiene without over-washing the area.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend additional diagnostic tests, such as a pelvic exam, cultures, or even a biopsy if necessary, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and to tailor an effective treatment plan.

In summary, while aging can lead to changes in vulvar skin that may cause pain, it is essential to consider a comprehensive approach to your symptoms, including potential infections or other underlying conditions. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key to finding relief and addressing your concerns effectively.

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