Vulvar Diseases, Part I: Approach to the patient

Abstract Patients with vulvar dermatoses often delay seeking medical treatment due to anxiety and embarrassment. Moreover, women frequently self-treat with various home remedies and see multiple clinicians before presenting to a dermatologist. Despite serving as the primary providers for patients with vulvovaginal symptoms, gynecologists typically receive limited training in the causes and management of these conditions. Dermatologists are experts in the evaluation and management of cutaneous disease and should be the caretakers of all skin, including the genitalia. Vulvar disorders are under-recognized by dermatologists for numerous reasons: inadequate training, lack of comfort with both interview and examination techniques, and unfamiliarity with normal anatomic variations may contribute. Part I of this 2-part series on vulvar dermatoses reviews the fundamentals, approach, and techniques that can be employed to ensure a successful visit for both patient and provider.