Many women experience changes, discomfort, or irritation in their vulva or vagina at some point in their lives, but too often, they feel
awkward bringing it up. Whether it’s itching, burning, pain, or changes in skin texture, these symptoms are worth attention, not embarrassment.
I thought I would talk about some of the more common vulval and vaginal conditions, how
they present, and when to seek help. And I hope this helps whoever is reading this.
Vulval irritation and itching
Irritation can happen for many reasons, and not all of them are infections.
● Dermatitis or allergic reactions: Fragranced soaps, pads, or laundry detergents are
common culprits.
● Lichen sclerosus: A chronic skin condition that causes thin, white, itchy patches on
the vulva. It’s not contagious, but it does need long-term management to prevent
scarring or narrowing of the vaginal opening.
● Lichen planus: Similar to lichen sclerosus but can affect the vagina as well,
sometimes causing soreness or small erosions.
These conditions often need topical prescription creams and ongoing monitoring, not
over-the-counter antifungal treatments, a reason why you need to seek proper medical
advice.
Pain and burning
Pain or burning in the vulva or vagina isn’t “normal,” even if you’ve been told it’s just
sensitivity. Possible causes include:
● Vulvodynia: Chronic pain without an obvious cause. It can feel like burning, stinging,
or rawness, often triggered by touch, sex, or even tight clothing.
● Atrophic vaginitis: Thinning of the vaginal tissue due to low oestrogen, especially
after menopause, breastfeeding, or long-term hormonal suppression.
● Infections: While yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis are common, if treatment
isn’t working, further testing may be needed to confirm the cause.
Persistent pain deserves a proper assessment, including a gentle physical exam and
sometimes swabs or a biopsy to clarify the diagnosis.
Changes in skin, discharge, or appearance
Noticing a lump, bump, colour change, or patch of thickened skin on the vulva can be
unsettling. Most are benign (like cysts or skin tags), but occasionally, they can indicate a
precancerous or cancerous change.
Warning signs to have checked include:
● Persistent pain or itching that doesn’t settle
● Ulcers or raised patches
● Bleeding, cracking, or pigment changes in the vulval skin
● Unusual or persistent discharge
Early assessment makes a huge difference. Vulval and vaginal cancers are rare, but
catching them early leads to far better outcomes.
Why women delay seeking care
Many women hesitate to bring up these types of symptoms. Sometimes it’s embarrassment;
sometimes it’s the assumption that discomfort is “just normal” after childbirth, menopause, or
ageing. Others have been dismissed in the past or told it’s “in their head.”
But your comfort, confidence, and sexual wellbeing matter.
At SHE Medical, we aim to make these conversations straightforward, respectful, and
private. You deserve to feel comfortable in your own body and to get answers when
something doesn’t feel right.
If you’ve noticed ongoing vulval or vaginal changes, irritation, pain, itching, or anything new –
please don’t ignore it. Most conditions are manageable with the right treatment plan, and
early assessment helps rule out more serious causes.
Your body is speaking to you. We’re here to listen.
Dr Sean Holland
What Happens If Endometriosis That Needs Treatment Goes Untreated?
Here’s the thing: untreated endometriosis doesn’t just sit quietly. It can cause a ripple effect in your body that impacts your health, fertility, and quality of life. I thought I’d talk you through a few of the most common complications.
If your endometriosis is causing symptoms that interfere with your life or your ability to have children, it’s time to explore treatment options. These may include:
Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the best approach depends on your symptoms, age, and future fertility plans. A conversation with a specialist can help you decide the best path forward. Our OBGYNs here at SHE Medical ALL specialise in endometriosis and we have half a century of experience between us.
Endometriosis isn’t just a bad period. It can impact your whole life. And while not every case needs treatment, ignoring the symptoms or delaying care can lead to more serious complications.
If you suspect you have endometriosis or you’ve been diagnosed but are unsure about your next steps, it’s worth having an open and honest conversation with a specialist gyno, like one of us. You deserve to live without pain, and without the worry of what might happen if you don’t seek care.
At SHE Medical, we’re here to guide you through every step of your health journey with compassion, expertise, and the answers you need.
Click here for our clinic details – https://shemedical.com.au/contact-page/.
One of the most common issues we come across at our clinic is endometriosis. If you’re here reading about it, chances are you might already suspect endo could be affecting you or a loved one. As specialists in women’s health, we want to shed some light on this disease – what it is, how it presents, and why early treatment is so crucial. The sooner you address endometriosis, the less pain you may endure and the better your overall outcome is likely to be.
So, let’s get into it: What is endometriosis, and why is it so important to know the signs?
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus begins to grow outside of it, most commonly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and surrounding pelvic tissues. For those affected, it can be life-altering, causing symptoms ranging from painful periods and chronic pelvic pain to digestive issues and, in some cases, fertility challenges.
The challenge with endometriosis is that it’s often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and misdiagnosed. Many women endure years of discomfort, sometimes thinking these symptoms are “normal.” That’s where our team at SHE Medical steps in.
At SHE Medical, we are proud to have three highly skilled OBGYNs specialising in endometriosis treatment and management. Dr. Gary Swift, Dr. Sean Holland, and Dr. Abigail Evans each bring extensive experience and dedication to helping women navigate this complex disease. All three doctors specialise in laparoscopic excision of endometriosis, a surgical method that provides a thorough and lasting solution for many patients.
Laparoscopic excision is considered the “gold standard” in endometriosis treatment. Unlike ablation, where lesions are superficially burned away, excision involves cutting out endometriosis tissue at its root, reducing the likelihood of recurrence. Excision also helps preserve healthy tissue, making it a particularly effective option for women concerned about fertility. Our specialists use advanced laparoscopic techniques to remove lesions with precision, ultimately aiming to relieve pain, improve function, and support better long-term outcomes.
If any of the following symptoms sound familiar, it may be worth consulting one of our specialists:
Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): Intense cramping, lower back pain, and pelvic pain that begins before and continues throughout your period.
Painful Intercourse: Deep pain during or after sex is a common sign that endometriosis might be present.
Chronic Pelvic Pain: Not just related to your menstrual cycle, this pain can persist throughout the month.
Digestive Symptoms: Bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, especially during your period, can sometimes indicate endometriosis.
Infertility: Endometriosis is found in a significant number of women facing fertility challenges.
Endometriosis can progress over time, leading to more significant pain, more extensive lesions, and, in some cases, increased difficulty with fertility. By seeking diagnosis and treatment sooner rather than later, you’re taking control of the disease before it has the chance to impact your health more seriously. Early intervention can often mean reduced pain, less time lost to symptoms, and a stronger chance of preserving fertility.
At SHE Medical, we believe in empowering women with knowledge and options, which is why our team works together to provide holistic, individualised care. We recognise that each patient’s journey with endometriosis is unique. By taking the time to understand your specific symptoms and concerns, our doctors can recommend a tailored approach to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
The journey with endometriosis can be challenging, but it’s one you don’t have to face alone. Whether you’re newly experiencing symptoms, have been struggling for years without answers, or are seeking an expert in advanced laparoscopic excision, we’re here to help. Our team at SHE Medical is committed to providing the highest standard of care, supporting our patients every step of the way.
If you’re ready to talk with a specialist or simply want to learn more, please reach out. Drs Gary, Sean and Abby are here to offer their expertise, compassionate care, and commitment to helping you find relief.
You can call our clinic for an appointment on 07 55 649 683. Don’t forget to see your GP for a referral so you can claim part of the consultation fee through Medicare.
Itching, burning, or unusual changes in the skin of your vulva or vagina can be a symptom of vulvar or vaginal dermatoses. This common and yet uncomfortable skin condition affects many women.
Symptoms can include:
These signs can point to conditions like lichen sclerosus, eczema, or psoriasis. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, it’s important to see a gynaecologist who specialises in these issues. We can diagnose and treat the condition properly, preventing complications and improving your comfort.
Please don’t wait, early treatment is key to managing symptoms and maintaining your vulvar health. Reach out if you’re experiencing persistent symptoms. These symptoms are not pleasant so you want to get onto it as soon a possible.
When embarking on your fertility journey, understanding all of your options can make a world of difference. Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) are advanced techniques that can screen embryos for genetic conditions before they are implanted, helping reduce the risk of inherited disorders and improving the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy.
This testing is done by expert embryologists at QFG, and we will provide guidance, care, and the reassurance that you’re in good hands every step of the way.
At SHE medical we understand that every family’s journey is unique, and we’re here to help you navigate the complexities with compassion and expert advice. If you’re exploring IVF or considering genetic testing as part of your treatment plan, let’s talk about how we can help you create the future you’ve been dreaming of.
