UAMS College of Medicine:Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Center for Vulvar Disorders

University Women’s Health Center Freeway Medical Tower 5800 W 10th St Little Rock, AR 72204 ANGELS Call Center: 866-273-3835 or 501-526-7425

The Center for Vulvar Disorder

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Clinical Information …………………………………………………………………………………………………1 Telephone Communication ………………………………………………………………………………………4 The Vulvar Self-Exam ……………………………………………………………………………………………..5 Suggested Vulvar Pain & Itching Measures…………………………………………………………………7 Vulvar Pain……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9 Physical Therapy and Biofeedback…………………………………………………………………………..14 Sexuality & Pain……………………………………………………………………………………………15 How to use vaginal dilators ……………………………………………………………………………………..19 Lubrication Information……………………………………………………………………………21 Low Oxalate Diet with Ca2+ Supplement…………………………………………………………………..24 Other Vulvar Conditions………………………………………………………………………………………….29 Medications used for Vulvar Diseases………………………………………………………………………37 • Booklet: s:/gyn/haefner/ptbklt -2005.doc 05-31-05revised, 08-07-09revised Eastham, Donna G. for UAMS

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CLINIC INFORMATION

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Center for Vulvar Disorders was founded in 2009 as a consultation and referral center for complex vulvar problems. The Center for Vulvar Disorders provides a comprehensive set of services to each individual. Members of our multidisciplinary staff attend each patient during a visit. The team approach has been created as the basic structure in recognition of the necessity to provide this intensity of care and expertise to patients who have already demonstrated that they are afflicted by a resistant and chronic illness, or an unusual vulvar condition.

The following people are actively involved in your care at the Center for Vulvar Disorders:

David A Hutchins, M.D. Co-Director

Dr. Hutchins is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Hutchins is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology with over 35 years of experience. He is a member of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Diseases (ISSVD). Dr. Hutchins is active in vulvar disorder research. He offers skilled, perceptive support and detailed instruction to his patients.

Amy Phillips, M.D. Co-Director

Dr. Phillips is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2004, then completed her residency at UAMS in 2008. Dr. Phillips looks forward to many years of excellence in practicing medicine, teaching and research for UAMS.

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Joseph A. Banken, PhD

Dr. Banken is an Associate Professor, the Director of Behavioral Health, and the Director of Research for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He is a licensed psychologist, a member of the American Psychological Association, and has been registered by the prestigious National Register of Health Providers since 1991. He holds a unique position as the only psychologist with a primary appointment to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Banken’s practice focuses on women’s needs in Behavioral Health.

W. C. ―Chuck‖ Hitt, MD

Dr. Hitt is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He is the Director of the General OB/GYN Division and the Practice Director of the University Women’s Health Center. Dr. Hitt entered private practice in 1993 and returned to UAMS in 2007 to teach, mentor and pursue his primary research interest in telehealth while maintaining a vigorous schedule of caring for patients.

Jon Etienne Mourot, PhD, JD

Dr. Mourot is a licensed psychologist specializing in sex therapy with individuals and couples. He maintains a private practice in Little Rock and has generously set aside time to help women in the Center for Vulvar Disorders at UAMS. Dr. Mourot attained his doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the University of Miami. He was certified as a sex therapist in 2003. He is a member of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists; Arkansas Psychology Association and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health.

Curtis Lowery, MD

Dr. Lowery is the Chairperson of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and has served as Director of Obstetrics since 1992. He is a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist and has been instrumental in bringing telemedicine to rural areas of Arkansas in founding the UAMS Center for Distance Health which won the Hugo Gernsback Award for Clinical Innovation in Telemedicine. He established the award winning ANGELS program to assist at-risk pregnancies. The ANGELS program won the 2007 Educational Innovation Award and was announced by the Harvard University Ash Institute as one of the nation’s most innovative governmental collaborations.

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Donna Pellowski, MD

Dr. Pellowski is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Dermatology and Internal Medicine and has been staff physician since 2003. She received her medical degree from The Medical College of Wisconsin, completed her residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Colorado in Denver, and completed another residency in dermatology at the University of Iowa where she was Chief Resident. Her clinical interests are autoimmune diseases of the skin and vulvar diseases involving the skin.

Soheila Korourian, MD

Dr. Korourian is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology and the Director of Breast Pathology and Co-director of Gynecologic Pathology at UAMS. She received her medical degree from the University of Vienna in Austria. She completed her combined anatomic/ clinical pathology at University of Colorado for Health Sciences Center in Denver, Colorado. She completed a surgical pathology fellowship at Stanford University. She is board certified in anatomic/ clinical pathology and cytopathology. She has been an active member of International Gynecologic pathology since 1992, and has practiced pathology for almost 20 years.

Mitzi Gibson, MSPT

Ms. Gibson received her Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Central Arkansas in 1995. She continued her education with post-graduate training in the area of Women’s Health. A former National Director of Women’s Health for the HealthSouth Corporation and a former national instructor in the area of Women’s Health, Ms. Gibson is now in private practice in Little Rock. She has generously offered her time for the Center for Vulvar Disorders. Ms. Gibson specializes in women’s health physical therapy including pelvic floor dysfunction.

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Lori Mize, DPT

Mrs. Mize received her doctorate of physical therapy in 2004 from the University of Central Arkansas. She continued her education with post- graduate training in the area of women’s health. Women’s health physical therapy became her passion after a personal experience with low back pain during pregnancy. She developed a Women’s Health program in North Central Arkansas and is now in practice at Advanced Physical Therapy of Little Rock where she specializes in women’s health, pelvic floor and orthopaedic treatment. She has been a long time member of the APTA and is currently pursuing a clinical specialty in women’s health. Mrs. Mize has generously offered her time for the Center for Vulvar Disorders.

Resident Physicians

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a teaching institution where resident physicians are an important part of patient care. Senior residents will be participating in your evaluation and treatment.

Telephone Communications

The staff recognizes the importance of open lines of communication with our patients. However, health care and the decisions relevant to each patient’s health problems cannot effectively be carried out over the telephone. Several circumstances exist in which phone calls to the Clinic regarding health care issues are important: (1) to request an earlier appointment than scheduled because of a change in vulvar condition, (2) to obtain advice regarding the development of side effects from treatment, or (3) to provide information that was requested by your provider at your last visit.

All clinical calls are documented and processed by a registered nurse through the 24 hour ANGELS Call Center. The nurse will take one of the following courses of action: (1) provide you with care advice, or (2) consult with the health care provider as soon as possible and arrange further communication with you, or (3) put you in touch with the appointment center to schedule an earlier or urgent visit for you at the Clinic.

The call center phone number is (866) 273-3835 or (501) 526-7425. The call center nurse phone lines are open 24 hours a day; the appointment lines are open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday. Because of the volume of calls that reach the clinic daily, we request that your calls

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be kept brief. A useful suggestion is to outline your problem before calling and know your medications and dosages and pharmacy fax or phone number, if your call involves these. In your best interest, complex clinical dilemmas must be evaluated in person.

Reporting Progress

Under special circumstances, you may be asked to report progress between visits. This is not in place of regular follow-up evaluations. If you feel your condition has worsened and you require modification of your therapy, it is appropriate to call the clinic and set up an earlier return visit. At times, you will be asked to contact us in one month to report your progress and alter medications. It is very important to call when indicated.

Follow-up Visits

Your provider will determine whether a return visit to the Center for Vulvar Diseases is necessary. All referring care providers will receive a detailed letter about your visit. In certain circumstances, follow-up visits and medication management will be handled by your referring care provider.

Refills of Prescriptions

Prescriptions are carefully calculated so that your medication will last until your next appointment at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Center for Vulvar Disorders or with your primary care provider. In the event that you need medication prior to your next return visit, it is essential that you communicate with the appropriate service regarding this matter prior to running out of your medication.

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The Vulvar Self-Exam

Just as you would examine your breasts or skin for changes, you should examine your vulva. Many diseases of the vulva have similar symptoms. The vulvar self-exam will help you to be aware of any changes in the vulvar area that may need ongoing evaluation. Some changes in the vulva may mean cancer. Tell your health care provider if you see any changes or have symptoms that don’t go away, such as itching, bleeding or discomfort. If a problem does occur, catching it at an early stage–when treatment is most successful–is in your best interest. Learning how to do a vulvar self-exam can best accomplish this.

1. Wash your hands carefully before you begin. Lie or sit up in a comfortable position with good lighting and a hand mirror (a magnifying mirror may work best). It may help to prop up your back with pillows, or you can squat or kneel. Finding a comfortable position is important so you can clearly see the vulvar

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area, perineum, and anus. First, just look and learn. Things may appear different from what you expect, and that does not necessarily mean they are abnormal.

2. Gently separate the outer lips of the vulva. Look for any redness, swelling, dark or light spots, blisters, bumps or other unusual colors.

3. Next, separate the inner lips and look carefully at the area between them for the same changes. Also, look at the entrance of the vagina.

4. Gently pull back the skin covering the clitoris and examine the area under the hood at the tip of the clitoris.

5. Be sure also to inspect the area around the urethra, the perineum, the anus, the outside of the labia majora and the mons pubis.

SOME SUGGESTED VULVAR PAIN & ITCHING MEASURES

The vulva is the external genitalia in the female. The skin of the vulva can be quite sensitive. Because it is moist and frequently subjected to friction while sitting and moving, this area can be easily injured. There are various strategies that can be used to prevent irritation and allow the vulva to heal. Keeping this area dry can accelerate healing. Chemicals found in toilet tissues, laundry soaps and detergents that come in contact with the vulva can cause irritation. Avoiding contact with potential irritants that contain chemicals is important. Fabric softeners in undergarments, chemicals in deodorant soaps, bubble baths, feminine hygiene spray and panty

liners etc., can all cause irritation to the vulva. The following recommendations are specific measures that can help minimize vulvar irritation.

Wear white 100% cotton underwear and do not wear underwear at night. Do not wear pantyhose, tights, or other close-fitting clothes. Enclosing this area with synthetic fibers holds both heat and moisture in the skin, conditions which potentiate the development of infections. Tight-fitting clothes may also increase your symptoms of discomfort.

After washing underwear, put it through at least one whole cycle with water only. Some women have suffered needlessly from irritants in detergents whose residue was left in clothes by incomplete rinsing. Rinsing clothes thoroughly is more important than which detergent is used although to be on the safe side, the milder the soap, the better. Wash new underwear before wearing. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets should not be used.

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Rinse skin off with plain water frequently. Use tap water, distilled water, sitz baths, squirt bottles, or bidets. Additionally, hand held showers can be helpful for rinsing the vulva. After rinsing, pat the skin gently dry.

If the anus is irritated, consider cutting white flannel squares and placing the square in warm water. Wipe the anus with the wet flannel and discard or wash the flannel.

Use very mild soap for bathing. It is best not to use any soaps on the vulva. The vulva should be rinsed with warm water. Bars of soap such as Neutrogena unscented face soap, Basis, Pears (made in England), and castile soap with olive oil (Conti) are gentle to the other skin areas. They are found at pharmacies or health food stores. Remember that frequent baths with soaps may increase the irritation. You cannot wash away your symptoms.

A compress of oiled Aveeno (a powdered oatmeal bath treatment) has been recommended by some. It is placed over the vulva three to four times a day. Put two tablespoons of Aveeno in one quart of water. Mix in a jar and refrigerate. This is often helpful after intercourse or when symptoms of burning and itching are present.

Some patients find the use of cool gel packs on the vulva to be helpful. We do not recommend products with benzocaine. This may numb the area, but also numbs our body’s natural protection- the ability to feel the pain of a new injury. This may lead to further injury and infection.

Consider using 100% cotton menstrual pads and tampons. Many women with vulvar pain experience a significant increase in irritation and pain every month when they use commercial paper pads or tampons. This monthly increase in pain can often be reduced by using 100% washable and reusable cotton menstrual pads. Pure cotton tampons are available.

Don’t sit or remain in a wet bathing suit for prolonged periods.

Avoid condom and spermicidal creams or gels if they cause increased irritation of sensitive tissues.

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The use of lubricants may help with dryness, chafing, and sexual activity. More about the different types of lubricants can be found in the Sexuality and Pain section of this booklet.

Additionally, it is often recommended that the vulva is left uncovered at night (i.e. no underwear) to allow adequate exposure to the air.

Many of the disease processes will require a biopsy to diagnose your condition. If a biopsy is performed during your visit, after care is important. Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid application of creams or ointments to the biopsy site. Sitz baths twice a day for three or four days following the biopsy will aid in healing. If increased redness, severe pain, heavy discharge, or heavy bleeding occurs at the biopsy site, call for further instructions. Avoid intercourse until the biopsy site is healed.

Adapted From: The Vulvar Pain Foundation, “Natural and Prophylactic Measures Suggested”, Vulvar Pain Newsletter 1993: Spring: 5-6 The Interstitial Cystitis Association Vulvar Pain handout

VULVAR PAIN

A large proportion of the patients seen at the Center for Vulvar Disorders have vulvar pain. The following information is a comprehensive review of the different aspects of vulvar pain.

Definition: Throughout history many different terms have been used to describe vulvar pain. Vestibulodynia (previously called vulvar vestibulitis) consists of pain at the entranceway to the vagina. Vulvodynia (previously called dysesthetic vulvodynia) consists of a burning or pain on the vulva present in areas outside of the vestibule. Patients with vulvodynia may also have burning or pain at the vestibule. Symptoms consist of burning, stinging, irritation or rawness. Other terms used to describe the vulvar discomfort include stretching and throbbing.

Causes: Vulvar pain can be divided into two major categories: those with a known cause and those where a cause cannot be identified.

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Pain with a known cause:

Vulvar pain can be associated with simple chemical irritation, so-called contact dermatitis. Common irritants include soaps, shampoos, scented toilet paper, douches, fabric softeners and scented menstrual pads. It can also be caused by certain medications which have been used to treat vulvar problems. Various infections can also be causes of vulvodynia. Women with chronic vulvar and vaginal yeast infection can frequently have vulvar itching and burning. Often symptoms worsen before menses as the changes in ovarian hormone production and the local vaginal environment can favor yeast growth during that time. Recurrent herpes simplex virus infection can also cause vulvar pain. These infections wax and wane, often starting at stressful times and lasting anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more. Irritation of the nerves which supply the vulva can also cause vulvar pain. This type of vulvar pain may radiate from the vulva to the perineum and into the groin and thigh. Some patients have lower back problems which may be associated with this pain also. Vulvar pain also results from injury (i.e. childbirth, vaginal/vulvar trauma).

Pain without a known cause:

Physical examination of this group of patients does not demonstrate any visible abnormalities. It is important to understand that vulvar pain with a normal appearing vulva does not mean that there is not a cause of the vulvar discomfort, rather a cause cannot be identified. Despite the fact that a cause of vulvar pain cannot be established in all cases, two things are important to keep in mind: 1) frequently the discomfort associated with vulvar pain can be controlled, and 2) it is clear that there is generally no relationship between vulvar pain and the subsequent development of vulvar cancer.

Pain on the Vestibule of the Vulva:

Some women present with distinct tenderness and at times erythema (redness) on the vestibule. Intercourse is painful and, in some cases, impossible due to the severe pain. Typically, women with pain on the vulvar vestibule present with a varying duration of symptoms from months to several years. Symptoms often begin after experiencing some type of infection or trauma followed by difficulty with intercourse. Burning, stinging, irritation or rawness at the vaginal opening with intercourse are the most common complaints. This same sensation may also be experienced when placing tampons or touching in the area of the vestibule. Women with

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severe symptoms may also feel this same sensation when riding a bicycle, horseback riding or jogging. In more extensive cases, some patients experience these symptoms while sitting, walking or even without any movement. Typically, these women have seen a number of health care practitioners and have had numerous attempts at therapy with topical or oral antifungals, topical steroids, and antibiotics. Often, these provide no long term relief. The cause(s) of pain on the vestibule is not known. Early studies implicated the human papilloma virus as a cause, but this is no longer considered to be associated with vestibulodynia. There appears to be a small subset of women who have chronic yeast infection as a cause of their vestibular pain, and long-term yeast suppression has met with promising results in these women. There is also another group of women who appear to have both pain at the vulvar vestibule and interstitial cystitis (a condition of the bladder which causes urinary frequency and burning). Because the vestibule and a portion of the bladder are two tissues in the body derived from the same embryologic tissue, investigators have begun to look for an irritant which might affect both of these structures. To date, no one causative agent has been proven. Some patients relate the onset of their pain to a gynecological or obstetric event. It is important to recognize that there is absolutely no evidence that vestibular pain is a sexually transmitted disease, therefore, it cannot be contracted from or given to your sexual partner.

Treatment:

Treatment of vulvar pain conditions is confounded by the fact that the cause is unknown in a great majority of cases, and the best treatment will likely come only when the cause has been identified. Where chronic yeast infection can be identified, suppression of yeast growth can be gratifying. Other topical therapies such as steroids and antibiotics have not met with success. Topical anesthetic agents (e.g., viscous or liquid Xylocaine® [lidocaine]) can sometimes help with temporary relief. Great success in treating vulvar pain conditions comes from using a group of medications called antidepressants. This group of drugs (e.g., Elavil® [amitriptyline], Pamelor® [nortriptyline], Norpramin® [desipramine]) has been used to treat many chronic pain conditions where a cause cannot be found. The TCA (tricyclic antidepressant) may work by inhibiting certain pain fibers which supply (innervate) the vulva. This in turn can prevent these specific nerves from transmitting the message to the brain where it is processed and pain is perceived. Other antidepressants may also be used for pain control. Another group of drugs, anticonvulsants, are used as treatment for other

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chronic pain conditions and may be used for vulvar pain. The use of the CO2 laser has not been successful, and in some cases, the results of treating vulvar pain with the CO2 laser have worsened the pain.

It has been suggested burning on the vestibule may be associated with elevated levels of oxalates in the urine. A group of investigators have described patients whose symptoms improve while on a low oxalate diet combined with taking a mineral called calcium citrate. Calcium citrate may decrease calcium oxalate formation in the urine, which is proposed to cause vulvar pain. (See page 21) Surgical excision of the vulvar vestibule may be offered as treatment for pain on the vestibule if conservative measures have failed.

There is no standard treatment for patients with vulvar pain since there are likely multiple causes. Treatments suggested will depend on your individual case. Modifications of treatments and medication dosages may need to be altered if your symptoms vary. The health care providers at the Center for Vulvar Diseases will discuss your individual case with you and develop an individual treatment plan based on your history, prior treatments and severity of symptoms.

Vulvar pain can be a difficult process to treat. Improvement may take weeks to months (even years) of long-term treatment. Spontaneous remission of symptoms has occurred in some women, while with others multiple attempts with medical management has proven unsuccessful in relieving 100% of symptoms.

For additional information on vulvodynia, an article is available on the internet: Haefner HK, Collins ME, Davis GD et al. The Vulvodynia Guideline. Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease. 2005;9.40-51. go to www.jlgtd.com

Click on Archive, Click on Jan 2005 Scroll down to the Vulvodynia Guideline Click on PDF (350)

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IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT VULVAR PAIN

• Vulvar pain is not generally associated with malignancy

• Despite the fact that the cause of vulvar pain cannot be established in many cases, careful investigation has established that it is not a sexually transmitted disease and is not contagious to your partner.

• Vulvar pain is not due to poor hygiene, and the use of strong soaps and detergents can worsen the condition. Use gentle soaps to the skin and no soap on the vulva, allowing water alone to cleanse the perineum.

• Improvement often takes weeks to months.

• Although the cause of vulvar pain cannot always be determined, it has been characterized well enough to allow treatment of the pain with a reasonable expectation of significant improvement, if not complete alleviation of pain.

• Treatment setbacks may occur; they are not necessarily the fault of your health care provider or you.

• We understand that chronic pain is exhausting and can be demoralizing. • There is nothing wrong with you as a person, the problem is your pain.

• Don’t feel that because this is genital pain that you can’t talk to other people. People with chronic problems need others for support. Family and friends can help.

• If you are in a relationship, both of you are affected by this problem. Appropriate couple counseling may be needed.

• It is OK to seek information on your own. The more you know about this disease, the more control you have over your situation.

• Sometimes patients become depressed if new treatments fail. Remember this as we work through this problem.

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Physical Therapy and Biofeedback

Physical Therapy and Biofeedback

Physical therapy (PT) and biofeedback are important in the treatment of vulvar pain. Our pelvic floor program has had much success in treating multiple pelvic floor dysfunctions.

Evaluation and treatment may include observation, palpation, use of topical vaginal or rectal sensors for biofeedback and / or electrical stimulation, vaginal probes for biofeedback, soft tissue mobilization, education, relaxation exercises, and ultrasound. Each physical therapy program is very individualized according to findings from the patient’s initial evaluation and according to the patient’s goals.

Various pain conditions can be aggravated or caused by muscle tension. When a person experiences pain, the body’s natural response is to protect that body part by tightening the muscle. PT uses biofeedback to help educate patients on how to relax a contracted or tightened muscle.

Biofeedback gives you immediate information on whether your pelvic floor musculature is relaxed or tensed and helps you to gain voluntary control of your muscles. It aids in developing self-regulation strategies for confronting and reducing pain. This allows you to become actively involved in your own treatment and learn how to relax the pelvic floor muscles in various positions. Sensitive detectors can be used on the vulva to tell you what is happening in your vulvar nerve environment. With the aid of an electronic measurement and amplification system or biofeedback machine, an individual can view a display of numbers on a meter, or colored lights to assess nerve and muscle tension. In this way it is possible to develop voluntary control over those biological systems involved in pain and discomfort.

The body has a protective muscle guarding mechanism to protect painful areas. The muscles react by tightening up. Patients are taught to isolate their pelvic floor muscles and learn how to strengthen them. After exercise therapy, the muscles return to a stronger, more relaxed and more stable state.

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A health care provider’s referral or prescription is necessary for evaluation and treatment in physical therapy. Pre-certification from your primary care health care provider may also be required. It is recommended that you contact your insurance company prior to scheduling your initial physical therapy visit to assure physical therapy is covered by your insurance program.

SEXUALITY AND PAIN—A real challenge.

There are some conditions which can cause women to experience pain with sex, whether the activity is heterosexual (male/female) intercourse, lesbian (female/female) intercourse, masturbation, partner attempting to penetrate the vagina with fingers, or other sexually stimulating activity.

Many times numerous treatments have been tried, with little success. The pattern of experiencing pain with sex, sometimes for a long period of time, can be very challenging for women and for their partners.

Sometimes the pain comes and goes, but the fact that the women cannot predict when they may or may not experience pain means that they are always vigilant that pain could happen. This can set up a cycle of women and partners anticipating pain, which, in itself, is distracting.

The sexual response cycle is generally separated into three categories. These are the desire phase, the excitement phase, and the orgasm phase. Seeing sexual response in phases can be helpful, because women can begin to understand where their problem is occurring. This can be beneficial, if only to help women and their partners understand the impact of attempting to maintain a healthy sex life while coping with chronic pain.

The desire phase refers to a woman’s interest in engaging in sexually arousing activity. We know that how a woman feels about herself and her body, what she expects from sexual experience in general and her partner in specific, and her experience with intimate relationships, whether sexual or not, all come together to influence sexual desire. Chronic pain can be a secondary cause of low sexual desire. For example, in the Center for Vulvar Diseases, women frequently tell us that the quality of their sexual interest and desire before they had pain was just fine. In other cases, some women state that they have always had some difficulty with sexual interest. This can vary from feeling they aren’t nearly as interested in sex as their partners, to feeling that they would like to avoid sex forever if it was

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possible. In cases where sexual desire has always been problematic, this issue should be addressed. If this issue isn’t dealt with, for some women, resolving pain could mean that there is no longer an acceptable reason to avoid sexual contact. We hesitate to include this as an example about what can happen, because many women have been told that their vulvar pain is not real, and we know that the pain is real. We can’t leave this factor out of a discussion about sexual desire.

The excitement phase describes what is happening in a woman’s body during sexually stimulating activity. She usually feels focused on the activity. Her vagina becomes moist with lubrication, and her genital region feels ―full‖ because of blood flow into the area. This is similar to a man having an erection during sexual arousal. Pain is not supposed to be a part of sexual arousal, and so when it occurs we call it an excitement phase difficulty. This refers more or less to the ―mechanics‖ of sexual functioning. By itself a pain problem means only that something isn’t functioning as it should. It is a symptom, and does not tell us anything about the woman’s desire to be sexual or to experience sexual attraction. Of course pain with sex is a catch 22 for women, and their sexual partners. Anticipating that sex might hurt can certainly affect sexual desire.

The orgasm phase is the discharge phase. Some women have orgasms regularly with sexual intercourse, and some women do not. It is normal not to have an orgasm with every act of intercourse. If a woman can have an orgasm in some manner, during sexual activity with a partner or through masturbation, the orgasm phase is intact. Vulvar or vaginal pain does not in itself lead to difficulties with orgasm. However, pleasure can be substantially blunted if pain or anxiety about pain is a part of the sexual experience. Distraction because of pain or fear of pain can also affect whether or not a woman is orgasmic.

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HELPFUL STRATEGIES TO DEAL WITH PAIN AND SEX 1. Establish a working alliance with a health care provider. This should include a working relationship with a provider or team who validates the pain you are experiencing. Of course this does not mean false reassurance on the part of the team to you, or blind faith on your part that this provider will completely eradicate pain you have had. This alliance should include: A. Medical evaluation and treatment recommendations. Your part will be to provide clear background information and medical records. B. An acknowledgment of the pain you are experiencing. The clinician will understand that you have pain, and that pain is interfering with your sexual pleasure and sense of well being. You will understand that even pain that is 100% physical in origin will have some psychological effects, because sexuality is a part of primary identity, and when you repeatedly experience pain with sex that identity is also injured. C. The provider or team can help ―normalize‖ the experience of frustration you may be having. This can help with a feeling of isolation. Couples dealing with painful sex often feel they are quite alone in the experience. D. Honest exchange and communication are essential to your care.

2. Expand your sexual repertoire. A. Focus on sensual as well as sexual. When sex begins to be associated with pain, the experience of sensual pleasure can be lost as well. Sensuality can be re-introduced with ―non-demand‖ massage, cradling, backrubs or other activities. Some couples become touch avoidant when they have experienced the cycle of pain. B. Avoid sex that hurts. This may seem obvious, but we have found conversely, some women may grit their teeth through uncomfortable sex because they feel that they are unfairly depriving their partner of the partner’s satisfaction. We have noted, however, that partners are distressed when they sense that the woman is not being straightforward about the fact that she is in pain. They don’t want to cause hurt or harm, and generally do not find sex pleasurable that causes pain. C. Experiment with sexually stimulating activity that does not involve penetration. Oral sex, sex using a vibrator, massage, kissing, fondling, have all been found to be pleasurable alternatives to intercourse. If some of these ideas are objectionable to one or both partners, this should be frankly discussed. We have found that many couples have gradually become interested in alternative activities by slow exposure and experimentation.

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Again, clear communication is important, including paying attention to what is experienced as unpleasant. D. Sexual activity – not orgasm oriented. Our culture tends to reduce sex to the idea of orgasm and ejaculation. Incorporating sexual and sensual play where the goal is simply to experience the moment has been liberating to many couples. Couples tell us that—if anything can be considered positive about vulvar pain—they have greatly expanded their definition of sex by concentrating on the pleasure of the moment and to greatly deemphasize orgasm.

3. When other problems occur, secondary to vulvar pain A. Muscle spasm (vaginismus). Sometimes muscles spasm involuntarily as a response to fear of pain. This is much like involuntary blinking which will happen if there is a threat that something is flying straight for your eye. Sometimes it is difficult to sort out the origin of the pain. We will work with you to carefully determine whether you may be experiencing a muscle tightening in addition to vulvar pain. Fortunately there are techniques which work to overcome this symptom. You will work with your clinician or team to determine a treatment. B. Partner sexual difficulty. Your partner could develop a sexual difficulty in response to your vulvar pain. This is understandable when you consider how frustrating the cycle of pain with sex can be for both of you. Sometimes partners withdraw from initiating sexual contact, or even touch contact, because of the fear of causing pain. Some men have developed erection difficulties. Perhaps they don’t see the connection between not being able to get an erection and the fear of causing their partner pain. Couples who are experiencing more than one sexual problem at once may benefit from discussing this with a therapist who understands sexual functioning. C. Low interest in sex. This bears repeating. If your experience with sexual activity before the onset of vulvar pain was positive, and your energy for sex was fairly high, the fact that you don’t have interest in sex now is probably because of the frustrating challenge of the presence of pain. If you never had interest in sex and primarily engaged in sex for your partner’s sake, you may want to examine for yourself what you want your sexual life to be and what it would take (besides being without pain) for this to happen. If you have always wanted to avoid sexual contact because you find it unpleasant or fearful, discussing this with a therapist or trusted advisor may provide you with some insight about this problem.

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HOW TO USE VAGINAL DILATORS

At times, the use of vaginal dilators for your vulvar condition may be recommended. The following is a discussion on the use of vaginal dilators. Pain with sexual activity can cause some reflexive tension in pelvic muscles. Anticipating that an activity may be painful can cause muscles to tense voluntarily or involuntarily, as a way to be self-protective. Sometimes a woman can benefit from learning more about how to gain voluntary control over the pelvic muscles. At times, vaginal dilators may be recommended. Vaginal dilators are cylinders, rounded at the end, which come in various sizes. The dilator is inserted into the vagina in the privacy of your home – to help stretch and relax the vaginal muscles. The smallest dilator is about the diameter of a tampon. Dilators will be recommended for you in the appropriate size, with discussion about how to use them. These instructions can be used for reference in between clinic visits. You may want to keep this handout with you when you are first using dilators. Various types of dilators are available.

Getting ready to use dilators. Select a time and place when you can have privacy to do dilator therapy. Many women elect to use their bedroom, and to use dilators while lying down. Plan for about 10 to 15 minutes a day, four to five times a week. If this seems like too often or too long, start with what you feel comfortable with. But do start! We want you to be successful,

and this will require repetition.

What you’ll need. At first you may benefit from using a mirror in order to see the vulva and vaginal opening. Locate the labia and clitoris as well as the opening to your vagina. You will need the dilator, and lubrication. Lubrication can be purchased in any drug store. Lubrication products are located in the same area as birth control items and condoms. A list of lubricants is provided at the end of this section.

Beginning with dilators. Use a small amount of lubrication on the dilator. Tense and relax the pelvic floor muscles a few times. When you are in the ―relax‖ phase of the exercise, insert the prescribed dilator. Some women find it helpful to push against the dilator, as if they were attempting to expel it. Notice your breathing. If you are tense and breathing is shallow, stop and attend to the tension before you proceed. Insert the dilator about two inches or so. You may be able to insert the dilator further. The pelvic muscles which tend to tense up are about an inch or so inside the vaginal

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opening, so the goal of this therapy is not how far you can insert the dilator, but what is happening to the muscles when you insert.

If you have pain, stop. Dilator therapy won’t be effective if you are in pain. Check with the health care provider supervising your dilator therapy. If you are feeling a physical tension, and you want to see if you can proceed with the dilator and learn some relaxation of that muscle, go ahead, but stop if there is pain.

Leave the dilator in place for 10 minutes to 20 minutes. You may want to catch up on a little reading during these minutes. Remove the dilator.

Changing dilator sizes. When you can effortlessly insert the dilator, it may be time to move to a larger size. Follow the steps above. At first use the dilator that you have become accustomed to. Then after a few minutes remove this dilator and use the next size. Again, stop if you have pain.

Care of dilators. Dilators do not need any special treatment. They can be cleaned with soap and water, making sure they are rinsed thoroughly.

Kegel exercises. Kegel exercises can help you gain voluntary control over pelvic muscles. When you are urinating, contract your pelvic muscles to start and stop the stream of urine. The goal of Kegel exercises is not to tense the muscles, but to learn to relax them. When you are contracting the pelvic muscles, you are tensing them. When you stop the contracting, push slightly as if you were attempting to expel urine or a tampon. This is part of the relaxation of the pelvic muscles. Pay particular attention to this relaxation aspect. These exercises should be repeated several times a day, and they can be helpful to strengthen the pelvic floor. Since the pelvic floor muscles are also involved in orgasmic pleasure, you may also be able to enhance orgasm.

Other helpful exercises. You can locate the trouble spots that muscle tension and spasms can cause. If you are lying on your back, the problem spot most often reported is the lower part of the vaginal opening—nearest the perineum (the area between the vaginal opening and the anal opening). You may use a thumb or finger to gently massage the muscle to see if it responds to your attempts to relax. Some women have found it effective to ―work‖ the pelvic floor muscles while they are taking a shower. They put a foot up on the side of the tub, use a little bit of lubrication applied to the

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entranceway with their fingers, and again locate the muscle and massage it gently.

Lubrication Information

Decreased lubrication often is a result of hormonal changes in a woman’s body. Many medications result in a decrease of vaginal lubrication, for example: antihistamines, hormonal forms of birth control, ADHD medications, depression medications, and chemotherapy. Breast-feeding and menopause also affect levels of lubrication. Studies have shown that women who have experienced sexual assault/trauma produce less lubrication than women who have not experience sexual violence.

Furthermore, natural lubrication created within the vagina often does not find its way to the more external portions of the vulva. This dryness can cause irritation and chafing. The application of lubrication can result in a woman experiencing more comfort as well as more sexual satisfaction.

Lubricants containing the ingredients LIDOCAINE or BENZOCAINE are designed to reduce discomfort and are usually sold as oral or anal lubricants. These ingredients numb the tissue and may help in managing surface pain and dryness, but please be cautious in using these products. Although this type of lubricant is meant to eliminate or reduce pain during sexual relations, the ingredients dull the body’s natural defense mechanism (pain), which is responsible for telling you when something is possibly tearing in your body. If you numb yourself with a lidocaine or benzocaine type of lubricant you may increase your risk of injury and infection.

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5 Main Groups of Lubricants Petroleum-Based Lubricants

TYPES: Mineral oil, Vaseline, Stroke 29, Jack Off NEGATIVES: Irritates vulvas, DESTROYS LATEX CONDOMS, stains

fabric. Most Commonly Used! POSITIVES: Cheap, and easily accessible.

Natural Oil-based Lubricants

The rule of thumb is, generally, if you can eat it, it’s safe to go inside the vagina. The body can clear out natural oils more easily than petroleum- based lubricants.

TYPES: Vegetable/Corn/Avocado/Peanut/Olive Oils. Butter and Crisco. NEGATIVES: DESTROYS LATEX CONDOMS, stains fabric, can easily be

confused with petroleum-based lubricants.

POSITIVES: Great for vulva massage, safe for the vagina, safe to eat, good for all forms of sexual play, cheap, and easily accessible.

Water-based Lubricants with GLYCERIN

Glycerin is added to most water-based lubes and produces a slightly sweet taste. The most commonly sold lubricants contain synthetic glycerin. The most readily available lubricants for sale in drugstores and supermarkets that are safe for use with condoms are water-based glycerin

lubricants. Most flavored lubes and warming lubes contain large amounts of glycerin.

TYPES: Astroglide, KY Liquid/Jelly, Embrace, Frixxion, Wet, Good Head, Wet Flavors, ID, and Replens (suppositories for dry vaginas)

NEGATIVES: Dries out quickly, often sticky or tacky, creates an open invitation for yeast infections.

POSITIVES: Does not stain fabric, safe to use with latex condoms.

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Water-based Lubricants without GLYCERIN

If recurrent yeast infections or extremely sensitive genitals are a problem, we recommend this type of lubricant.

TYPES: Maximus, Liquid Silk, Slippery Stuff, Oh My, Sensual Organics, Probe

NEGATIVES: Can have a bitter taste due to the absence of glycerin.

POSITIVES: Lasts longer than lubricants with glycerin, reduces irritation to the genitals, does not stain fabric, is safe with latex condoms, is usually thicker and provides a cushion.

Silicone-based Lubricants

Silicone lasts the longest out of all lubricants and is safe to use with condoms. Some people are concerned that silicone lubricant is hazardous because they are comparing it to the silicone used in breast implants. Silicone lubrication is only a fraction of what is placed in breast implants and cannot leak into the bloodstream as may happen with silicone implants. Most silicone lubricants are also hypo-allergenic.

TYPES: Eros, Wet Platinum, ID Millennium, Pink, Gun Oil NEGATIVES: Expensive, cannot use with silicone or cyberskin sex dilators,

must be washed off with soap and water if too much is used.

POSITIVES: A little goes a long way, great for sensitive genitals, feels like petroleum-based lubricant but is safe for condoms as well as internal use, stays on underwater, is odorless and tasteless, lasts three times as long as water-based lubricants, clings to internal walls, hypo-allergenic.

Based on investigation by Megan Andelloux, www.ohmegan.com

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Low Oxalate Diet with Calcium Citrate Supplementation for Vulvar Pain Over the last few years, there has been an emphasis on using a low oxalate diet with calcium supplementation to treat vulvar pain. Calcium citrate inhibits the activity of hyalurinodase, an enzyme which triggers the breakdown of a component of connective tissue – hyaluronic acid.

This breakdown results in oxalate releasing histamine, which may be associated with pain.

While this treatment regimen is generally not recommended for all patients with vulvodynia, some people have found relief with various aspects of this diet.

Low Oxalate Diet with Clacium Citrate Supplementation for Vulvar Pain Over the last few years, there has been an emphasis on using a low oxalate diet with calcium supplementation to treat vulvar pain. Calcium citrate inhibits the activity of hyalurinodase, an enzyme which triggers the breakdown of a component of connective tissue – hyaluronic acid.

This breakdown results in oxalate releasing histamine, which may be associated with pain. While this treatment regimen is generally not recommended for all patients with vulvodynia, some people have found relief with various aspects of this diet.

The following information was prepared by a dietitian at the University of Michigan Hospitals.

GOALS:

→ To alleviate and control pain associated with vulvar pain. → This diet should be considered a ―trial‖ for 3 months to 1 year. It may alleviate the pain for some individuals. → If symptoms decrease, ask your health care provider about how long to continue.

GUIDELINES:

→ Eliminate all foods in the high oxalate column. → Limit foods in the moderate oxalate list to 3 times a week. → Drink at least 12-14 cups of water each day.

SUPPLEMENT:

→ Take calcium citrate without Vitamin D.

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→ Two Citracal tablets, three times a day is recommended. → Take calcium citrate without food on an ―empty stomach‖ approximately forty-five minutes before eating. → Take no more than 250 mg of Vitamin C per day. It is a precursor of calcium citrate.

Dietary Recommendations:

If you do decide to pursue the low oxalate diet with calcium citrate supplementation, some dietary recommendations are included below:

Diet Guidelines Little or No Moderate High Oxalate FOOD Oxalate (<2mg/serving) Oxalate (2-10mg/serving) Foods (>10mg/serving) Beverages:

Limeade and lemonade (no peels) Alcohol: bottled beer, distilled alcohol and wines Coffee (limit to 8 oz/day) Carbonated cola (limit to 12 oz/day) Draft beer Ovaltine and other beverage mixes Tea Cocoa Vegetables:

Avocado Brussels sprouts Cauliflower Cabbage Mushrooms Onions Peas (green), fresh or frozen Potatoes, white Radishes Asparagus Broccoli Carrots Corn: Sweet white, Sweet yellow Cucumber, peeled Lettuce Lima beans Parsnips

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Peas (green), canned Tomato, 1 small or juice (4 oz) Turnips Beans (green or wax) Beets (tops, roots, greens) Celery Chives Dried beans Eggplant Greens: chard, collards, dandelion, escarole, kale, mustard, pokeweed, spinach Leeks Okra Parsley Peppers (green) Potatoes (sweet) Rutabagas Summer squash Watercress Fruits/ Juices: Apple juice Avocado Banana Cherries (Bing) Grapefruit (fruit and juice) Grapes (green) Mangoes Melons: Cantaloupe, Casaba, Honeydew, Watermelon Nectarines Peaches Pineapple juice Plums (green or yellow) Apple Apricots Black currants Cherries (red, sour) Cranberry juice (4 oz) Grape juice (4 oz) Orange juice (4 oz) Orange

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Peaches Pears Pineapple Plums, purple Prunes Blackberries Blueberries Cranberries Cranberry sauce Currants (red) Dewberries

Fruit cocktail Grapes (purple) Gooseberries Raspberries Rhubarb Strawberries Tangerines Juices made from the above fruits Grains:

Bread, Cereals, Crackers Macaroni, pasta, spaghetti (plain) Rice Cornbread Sponge cake Pasta dishes with tomato sauce Fruit cake Grits, white corn Soybean crackers Wheat bran and germ Dairy Products:

Buttermilk, Whole, low fat or skim milk Yogurt with allowed fruit Meat and substitutes: Beef, lamb or pork

Cheese Eggs Fish and shellfish Poultry Sardines

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Peanut butter Tofu Fats and oils: Bacon

Butter Margarine Mayonnaise Salad dressing Vegetable oils Nuts: all Miscellaneous: Candies, hard (not nuts or chocolate) Coconut

Jelly or preserves (made with allowed fruits) Lemon, lime juice Salt Soups with allowed ingredients

Sugar Chicken noodle soup, dehydrated Pepper (limit to 1 tsp./day) Candies with chocolate and/or nuts Chocolate, cocoa Lemon, lime or orange peel Marmalade Tomato soup Vegetable soup

Additional resources: Rowan’s Resources – www.branwen.com/rowan/oxalate.htm The Vulvar Pain Foundation, 433 Ward Street, Graham, NC 27253.

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SAMPLE MENU

Breakfast:

Skim milk Bagel Grapefruit or grapefruit juice Margarine, jelly Lunch: Tuna fish sandwich Mayonnaise Grapes Skim milk Dinner: Baked chicken Mashed potatoes Peas Bread, margarine Fruit Skim milk Snacks: Fruits from ―little or no oxalate list‖ Milk or yogurt

OTHER VULVAR CONDITIONS

Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are a common vulvar infection. Diabetes, pregnancy, antibiotic use, a suppressed immune system and zinc deficiencies are factors that predispose women to yeast infections. Candida albicans is the most frequent cause. The vagina, as well as the vulva, may be infected also. Many women in the reproductive age group have yeast present in the vagina or vulva without symptoms. Yeast infections generally are not sexually transmitted, but there are exceptions and you may want to address whether or not your partner should be treated.

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Symptoms of yeast infections can include redness, itching and a whitish, clumpy discharge. For women with recurrent yeast infection, the symptoms tend to flare at the same time during each menstrual cycle. Sometimes women have burning with urination. Intercourse may be painful.

Some women complain of vaginal dryness.

Many times patients with symptoms thought to be from yeast do not have the fungus. To diagnose this infection, the discharge on the skin of the vulva or in the vagina may be taken and examined under a microscope. A culture may be sent to the laboratory. If a culture is sent, it can take up to two weeks to determine if yeast are present. If a yeast culture is taken, you will be contacted if it is positive, otherwise, assume it is negative. If an infection is present, antifungal drugs are the usual treatment. A cream or tablet (or both) can be inserted into the vagina and applied to the vulvar skin. Occasionally, powders are used to treat yeast. Oral medications can also be used to treat yeast infections (see fluconazole). Many women with recurrent vaginal candidiasis can be effectively treated with intravaginal boric acid. An 0 gel capsule is filled half way (600 mg, boric acid) and placed into the vagina nightly for two weeks.

If you have recurrent yeast, at times twice weekly intravaginal boric acid is used (for example, on Monday night and on Thursday night) to prevent recurrences. Many resistant candida strains will respond to boric acid. It is important to keep this medication (as well as all medications discussed) away from children. Do not become pregnant while taking this medication. If you experience watery discharge, redness or burning, consider putting some Vaseline between the inner lips. Do not have unprotected sex while taking this medication. Do not use this medication if you are breastfeeding.

Patients with recurrent infections may benefit from limiting large amounts of sugars (sucrose and lactose) from their diets. Such sources would include candies, syrup, milk, cottage cheese and artificial sweeteners containing lactose.

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Condyloma Acuminatum

Genital warts (condyloma acuminata), like warts on other parts of the body, are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). This is the same kind of virus that causes warts on the hands and feet. They are usually spread to the vulva through sexual contact but can in some instances be spread by other means. Women of childbearing age are the most susceptible to infection with HPV. The growths are occasionally seen before puberty or after menopause.

The vulva, particularly at the opening of the vagina (vestibule) and the labial folds, is the most common site of this disease. Lesions can also arise on the skin near the anus, vagina, cervix and urethra. They usually appear first as a small thickened area of skin with definite edges. The wart may become surrounded by seedlings (smaller warts) that may grow to involve other areas. Occasionally, they spread and enlarge, forming a large cluster of warts that look like tiny cauliflower. The warts appear on the vulva as raised and sometimes reddened patches that may hurt or itch. There are several ways to treat genital warts: One topical therapy is the application of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to the warts. Treatments occur weekly (by the health care provider) until the warts are gone. Burning may temporarily follow its application. Imiquimod (Aldara®) is another topical drug for warts. Patients place it onto the warts three times a week. It needs to stay on for 6-10 hours then it is washed off with a wet wash cloth. Another topical medication is Condylox® (also applied by patients). Interferon, a drug that is injected into the warts or into a muscle, may be used for recurrent lesions or for immunosuppressed patients. Laser treatment or Loop electroexcision are used to treat condylomata at times. Excision with a scalpel under local or general anesthesia is sometimes necessary. These treatments are not always successful; the warts may come back. It is important to watch for recurrences.

Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a skin disorder that affects the vulva. It may occur in any age group. The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown. It is not an infection that you caught from anyone, and you cannot transmit it to others. There have been reports of family members with lichen sclerosus, thus it may have a genetic link. There is also the possibility that it has an

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autoimmune component. It is characterized by small white patches that are thin and have a crinkled appearance, looking like cigarette paper at times. It may involve the entire vulvar area (from the clitoris to the anus). Often, changes of the clitoral foreskin hide the clitoris. The labia minora almost completely disappear at times. Not uncommonly, splitting of the skin in the midline is seen. Tears may also develop in the natural folds of the vulva. The vaginal opening may become smaller, interfering with intercourse. Occasionally the tissue breaks down, forming an ulcerative lesion. It may be a chronic process which at times is not curable. The disease does not spread into the vagina. Itching is the primary symptom.

A biopsy (a minor surgical procedure to remove a small piece of tissue that is then examined under a microscope), is performed to make the diagnosis. The goal of treatment is to eliminate itching and protect the skin from damage. Occasionally, complete resolution of the abnormal vulvar appearance may occur. More commonly, the skin changes of lichen sclerosus will not completely resolve. This does not mean the treatments are not helping. Various medications are used to improve the skin condition. Although testosterone had been used frequently in the past for treatment, the current therapy is potent topical steroids in ointment form. Ointments tend to be gentler than creams on vulvar skin. Temovate® (clobetasol propionate 0.05%) is a frequently prescribed topical treatment. Following the initial use of clobetasol propionate 0.05% ointment, the steroid content of the ointment is decreased gradually. Long term topical steroid use is often required. During early treatment, avoidance of tight clothing will prevent further tissue damage. Several follow-up appointments will be necessary to evaluate response to treatment. Many people have wondered if lichen sclerosus can turn into cancer. Lichen sclerosus scars the skin, and in theory, could increase the risk for a local skin cancer (this happens in 3% to 5% of patients). You will need to be followed closely to have the vulva examined at regular intervals. A sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal in a few weeks, a lesion that bleeds easily, or bumps or raised lesions that are becoming larger are signs of a skin cancer. In some cases, an additional biopsy may be indicated. You should examine the vulva monthly and have regular visits with your health care provider to follow the skin appearance. (see Vulvar Self Exam, page 5)

SQUAMOUS CELL HYPERPLASIA

Squamous cell hyperplasia (formerly termed hyperplastic dystrophy) is an abnormal growth of the skin of the vulva. It has a variety of appearances. It

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may present as a pink or red vulva. It frequently appears as elevated white patches. Moisture, scratching, scrubbing and medications may cause variations in the appearance of the lesions. The size of the lesions ranges from small to extensive. The areas most frequently involved are the hood of the clitoris, labia majora, outer aspect of the labia minora and the posterior commissure. Lesions may also extend to the lateral surface of the labia majora and even to the thighs. When the skin becomes too thick, hardened patches on the vulvar area may appear. This is related to chronic irritation. A biopsy (a minor surgical procedure to remove a small piece of tissue that is then examined under a microscope) is often performed to diagnose this problem.

Many things can trigger itching on the vulva. The itching generally stops when the skin heals. Remember that it took a long time for the squamous cell hyperplasia to develop, so don’t expect it to improve overnight. It is often chronic and may require long-term treatment with steroid ointments. These are rubbed into the vulvar tissue. Squamous cell hyperplasia is sometimes observed next to lesions of invasive squamous cell cancer. You will need to be followed closely while you have squamous cell hyperplasia. Patients with a combination of lichen sclerosus and squamous cell hyperplasia are at an increased risk for development of vulvar cancer.

Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia

Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) is a type of precancerous vulvar tissue abnormality. It is caused by changes in the cells of the vulvar tissue that allow them to grow abnormally. The human papilloma virus (HPV) has been linked to VIN. VIN can progress to invasive cancer of the vulva. This happens in only a small portion of cases and usually progresses slowly. Patients may be without symptoms or complain of pruritus (itching) or burning. Raised brown, red, pink, white, or gray lesions of various colors may be present. Tests to diagnose VIN include colposcopy (viewing of the cervix, vulva or vagina under magnification with a special instrument) and biopsy (a minor surgical procedure to remove a small piece of tissue that is then examined under a microscope). Treatment depends on the degree of the disease. VIN 3 can usually be treated successfully with surgical or laser removal. VIN may reoccur. For this reason, and because VIN may not produce any symptoms, it is important to have regular checkups by your health care provider. This is especially true if you smoke, as this contributes to the recurrence and progression of the disease.

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VULVAR CARE FOLLOWING LASER SURGERY

The following are instructions for vulvar care after laser therapy: 1. Apply ice or cool gel packs for the first 12-24 hours. Do not leave the ice on for more than 20 minutes. Allow the vulva to come to room temperature before reapplying ice. 2. Take a Sitz bath 3 times per day with warm water and Instant Ocean, sea salt or Epsom salts. 3. Dry area well thereafter. 4. Apply silvadene cream (if not allergic to sulfa medications), Carrington’s gel, or Bacitracin afterwards. 5. Cleanse area with salt water solution after each void or bowel movement if soiled. 6. For symptomatic relief you may use warm tea bags or lightly apply Witch Hazel in between Sitz baths. 7. You will be given oral pain medication as well as a stool softener to prevent constipation. 8. If you develop extreme redness around the lasered area or a foul discharge, then contact your health care provider.

Paget’s Disease of the Vulva

Vulvar Paget’s disease appears as a red velvety area with white islands of tissue on the vulva. At times it may be pink. Occasionally there are moist oozing ulcerations that bleed easily. Itching is present in over half of the patients. Soreness may also be present. Almost all patients are postmenopausal, Caucasian women. The cause of Paget’s disease is unknown. It is diagnosed by biopsy (a minor surgical procedure to remove a small piece of tissue that is then examined under a microscope) and is usually treated with surgery. It is rarely associated with an underlying cancer on the vulva. Genital Paget’s disease may however be related to a primary carcinoma of the rectum, urethra or bladder.

Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a skin condition characterized by itchy bumps on the shins, the inner wrist, and the hands. A particular type of lichen planus affects the mucous membranes of the mouth and external genitalia. It often involves the vagina as well as the vulva. It can resemble other vulvar skin

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conditions. It is diagnosed by biopsy. This is a minor procedure often done in the office under local anesthesia. Small areas of skin are removed and sent for analysis. At times the biopsy does not reveal lichen planus yet the mouth and vulvar appearance are consistent with this diagnosis. The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown. It is not believed to be an infectious disease. The lesions consist of inflamed skin, but what causes the inflammation is unknown. In erosive lichen planus, the thin mucous membranes inside the mouth and vagina lose their top layer when they become involved with lichen planus, so red erosions rather than bumps develop in these areas.

Erosive lichen planus may be painful in the mouth and vagina and secondary infection may occur. If the areas touch one another, scarring may occur resulting in a narrowing or complete closure of the vagina. Lichen planus is often improved with various creams and ointments. Several drugs are used to treat this condition. Vaginal dilators may be used to prevent scarring. If scarring has occurred, vaginal dilators may be used to help prevent further scar formation. Vaginal dilators may also be recommended prior to surgery. Surgical separation of the vaginal scar tissue is sometimes necessary. You should pay close attention to any changes in the vaginal discharge. If vaginal discharge occurs, it may indicate an erosion or secondary infection. Medication is most often used on a regular basis to maintain optimal tissue status, rather than only with flares in disease. There is a slightly increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva developing in patients with vulvovaginal lichen planus. Regular visits with your health care provider and monthly vulvar self examinations will be necessary.

DESQUAMATIVE INFLAMMATORY VAGINITIS (DIV) (Adapted from Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates)

Desquamative inflammatory vaginitis (DIV) is a cause of persistent vaginitis. It is often associated with painful intercourse and can occur at any age of reproductive life and during menopause. Women often have had significant vaginal discharge for years or suddenly develop discharge with irritation of the vulva and vagina. The inflammation may cause the vaginal wall to peel or shed, called desquamation. DIV is not a common cause of vaginitis. Cause The cause (or causes) of DIV remains unknown. It is not cancerous or contagious or sexually transmitted.

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Signs and Symptoms

Women will have an excessive discharge that may have been present for years (often yellowgreen, but may be bloody). The discharge may be associated with vulvar burning, irritation and itching. Intercourse is often uncomfortable or painful. Some women complain of odor. The pap smear may be abnormal.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by the typical findings of copious yellow-green vaginal discharge, and elevated pH taken from the vaginal sidewall. The vagina is reddened and inflamed. Under the microscope the clinician sees many white blood cells, and cells shed from the vagina wall called parabasal cells. The normal healthy vaginal bacteria, lactobacilli, are absent. The condition is often mistakenly diagnosed as Trichomonas or vaginal atrophy from low estrogen levels.

Treatment

DIV requires lengthy treatment. It is treated with hydrocortisone and intravaginal antibiotics. If combined medication are used, these medications may be made up by a compounding pharmacy. Sometimes, one course of treatment is all that is needed while at other times there is a need on-going maintenance for this problem.

Additional Patient Education Information is available on these conditions as well as other conditions at:www.issvd.org http://libbyedwardsmd.com/

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MEDICATIONS USED FOR VULVAR DISEASES

Multiple medications are used in treating various vulvar conditions. The following information will be helpful to you in understanding the medication prescribed for your particular condition.

SAFETY GUIDELINES

1. Certain medications are not to be taken if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. 2. Discuss questions regarding medication effects and side effects with your health care provider. Report significant side effects or changes.

3. Discuss compatibility of new medications with the prescribing health care provider. 4. Avoid mixing medications with alcohol. 5. Avoid driving and hazardous activities if you are drowsy or in severe pain.

6. Take medications as prescribed – please follow instructions. 7. The prescription of medications requires close medical monitoring. Appointments will be scheduled at appropriate intervals, at which time prescriptions will be refilled, changed, or discontinued. The following are several drugs used to treat various vulvar conditions. The first category described, tricyclic antidepressants are often used for the treatment of vulvar pain.

TRICYCLIC ANTIDEPRESSANTS are classically used to relieve depression and anxiety. Drugs that are in this category include, Elavil® (amitriptyline), Norpramin® (desipramine) and Pamelor® (nortriptyline). Tricyclic antidepressants may also be used for the treatment of a variety of pain conditions. They must be taken regularly to be effective. Do not skip doses, even if you feel that you do not need them. The drug must be taken regularly for three to six weeks before its full effect is felt. Do not stop taking these medications abruptly, especially if you have taken large dose for a long time. You will need to gradually decrease your dose per your health care provider’s recommendations.

Before using this medication

Tell your health care provider and pharmacist if you • are pregnant or intend to become pregnant while using this medicine • are allergic to any medicine, either prescription or nonprescription (OTC – over the counter)

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• are breast-feeding • are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (OTC) medicine • have any other medical problems (for example, seizures, overactive thyroid gland, heart condition) • have more than one alcohol-containing drink per day

Proper use of this medicine. Take this medicine only as directed by your health care provider. • This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that make you drowsy or less alert). Do not consume more than one alcoholic drink per day while on tricyclic antidepressants. Check with your health care provider before taking any such depressants while you are taking this medicine.

• This medicine may cause some people to become drowsy or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react before you drive, use machines, or do other jobs that require you to be alert. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur, especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position. Getting up slowly may help.

• The effects of this medicine may last for 3 to 7 days after you stop taking it. Make sure you continue to follow the precautions during this time. • Take tricyclic antidepressants once a day, approximately two hours before bedtime. If you forget to take it until the next morning, do not take the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.

Possible side effects of this medicine

• Dry mouth, drowsiness, weight gain and constipation. • Less common side effects that should be reported to your health care provider: Blurred vision, memory loss, confusion or delirium, decreased sexual drive; difficulty in swallowing; irregular heart beat • Tricyclic antidepressants can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual. Suggestions to counteract specific side effects: for dry mouth, suck sugarless hard candies, increase fluids, for constipation, use stool softeners, eat a high fiber diet. For sun skin damage, wear protective clothing and a sunscreen preparation.

Drug interactions

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAO’s)- do not use in conjunction with cyclic antidepressants. These drugs are Phenelzine (Nardil) and Tranylcypromine (Parnate) and Isocarboxazid (Marplan). • Amphetamines should not be used with antidepressants

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• Antihistamines/anticholinergics (Benadryl, Hydroxyzine, Brompheniramine in Dimetapp, Chlorpheniramine in Chlor-trimeton)- activity may increase with tricyclic antidepressant drugs. The effects are dry mouth, constipation. Urinary retention and glaucoma have been seen.

• Barbiturates (Phenobarbital, Pentabarbital, Amobarbital, Vutalbital in Fioricet) – patients on tricyclic antidepressants respond better without barbiturates; it has been recommended that barbiturates be avoided. Benzodiazepines do not appear to affect tricyclic antidepressant serum concentrations.

• Alcohol- do not drink more than one drink per day • Bethanidine- avoid cyclic antidepressants. • Clonidine (Catapres)- Cyclic antidepressants should be avoided if possible. • Guanabenz (Wytensin)- monitor for reduced antihypertensive response when cyclic antidepressants are added to Guanabenz therapy. If Guanabenz is withdrawn in the presence of cyclic antidepressants, monitor for exaggerated rebound hypertension. • Guanfacine (Tenex)- monitor for reduced antihypertensive response. If Guanfacine is withdrawn in the presence of cyclic antidepressants, monitor for exaggerated rebound hypertension. • Debrisoquin- Cyclic antidepressants inhibit the antihypertensive response to Debrisoquin. • Antabuse (Disulfiram)- acute organic brain syndrome has been reported. • Prozac- Monitor for increased antidepressant levels; adjustment of the antidepressant dosage is likely to be required. • Guanethidine (Ismelin)- avoid with antidepressants. • Cimetidine (Tagamet)- increased serum concentrations of doxepin (Zonalon). Be alert for evidence of Doxepin toxicity (severe dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, tachycardia, constipation, postural hypotension). It also increases Nortriptyline (Pamelor) concentrations. • Lithium- Lithium and cyclic antidepressants should be used cautiously in elderly patients. Monitor for evidence of neurotoxicity such as tremors, disorders of mentation, ataxia, and seizures. • Ritalin- enhanced antidepressant effect may occur. • Neuroleptics- if combined with cyclic antidepressants, be alert for evidence of increased toxicity and altered therapeutic response. • Neo-Synephrine- Enhanced pressor responses have been reported. Do not use with cyclic antidepressants. • Other drugs which may interact: Charcoal

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Dicumarol – Coumadin Haloperidol (Haldol) Levodopa Pargyline (Eutonyl) Phenothiazines Selegiline (Eldepryl)

NEURONTIN – GABAPENTIN (ORAL)

• GABAPENTIN is used to help control some types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy, but is also used by pain clinics to control various forms of pain. It helps control pain by decreasing the excessive impulses of nerves that transmit pain and by preventing the spread of increased excitation from abnormal to normal neurons.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE

Tell your health care provider and pharmacist if you, • are allergic to any medicine, either prescription or non-prescription (OTC); • are pregnant or intend to become pregnant while using this medicine; • are breast-feeding; • are taking any other prescription or non-prescription (OTC) medicine, especially antacids; • have any other medical problems, especially kidney disease.

PROPER USE OF THIS MEDICINE

• Take this medicine only as directed by your health care provider, to help your condition as much as possible. Do not take more or less of it, and do not take it more or less often than your health care provider ordered. • Gabapentin may be taken with or without food.

• If you have trouble swallowing capsules, you may open the Gabapentin capsule and mix the medicine with applesauce or juice. Mix only one dose at a time just before taking it. Do not mix any doses to save for later, because the medicine may change over time and may not work properly. • If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is less than two hours until your next dose, take the missed dose right away, and take the next dose one to two hours later. Then go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses unless instructed to do so by your health care provider.

• This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS antidepressants (medicines that may make you drowsy or less alert).

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Check with your health care provider or dentist before taking any such antidepressants while you are using this medicine. • This medicine may cause blurred vision, double vision, clumsiness, unsteadiness, dizziness, drowsiness, or trouble in thinking. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do other jobs that require you to be alert, well-coordinated, or able to think or see well. If these reactions are especially bothersome, check with your care provider.

• Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your care provider. Your care provider may want you to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping completely.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFETS OF THIS MEDICINE

SIDE EFFECTS THAT SHOULD BE REPORTED TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: • More common: clumsiness or unsteadiness; continuous, uncontrolled back and forth and/or rolling eye movements.

• Less common: depression, irritability, or other mood or mental changes; loss of memory. • Rare: fever or chills; cough or hoarseness; lower back or side pain; painful or difficult urination. SIDE EFFECTS THAT USUALLY DO NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION: • These possible side effects may go away during treatment; however, if they continue or are bothersome, check with your health care provider or pharmacist. • More common: blurred or double vision; dizziness; drowsiness; muscle ache or pain; swelling of hands, feet, or lower legs; trembling or shaking; unusual tiredness or weakness. • Less common: diarrhea; dryness of mouth or throat; frequent urination; headache; indigestion; low blood pressure; nausea; noise in ears; runny nose; slurred speech; trouble in thinking; trouble in sleeping; vomiting; weakness or loss of strength; weight gain.

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CORTICOSTEROIDS are used to help relieve redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort of many skin problems. They belong to the general family of medicines called steroids. These medications may be prescribed orally, topically, or, injected into the skin during a clinic visit. Before using this medication Tell your health care provider and pharmacist if you… • are allergic to any medicine, either prescription or nonprescription (OTC – over the counter) • are pregnant or intend to become pregnant while using this medicine • are breast-feeding Proper use of this medicine • Do not use more often or for a longer time than ordered. To do so may increase absorption through the skin and the chance of side effects. In addition, too much use, especially on areas with thinner skin (for example, face, armpits, groin, vulva), may result in thinning of the skin and stretch marks. • Apply a thin film to the affected area as directed. • Do not bandage or otherwise wrap the area of the skin being treated. • This medicine was prescribed for a specific skin problem. Do not use any leftover medicine on other skin problems without first checking with your health care provider since the medicine should not be used on many kinds of bacterial, virus, or fungus skin infections. • If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. Then go back to your regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, do not apply the missed dose at all. Instead, go back to your regular dosing schedule. Possible side effects • The most common side effect seen on the vulva is increased vascularity and skin thinning. • When the gel, lotion, cream, ointment or aerosol form of this medicine is applied, a mild, temporary stinging may be expected. This generally resolves gradually. Ointments are generally tolerated better than gels, lotions, creams and aerosols on the vulva. • Side effects that should be reported to your health care provider: ⇒ Less common or rare: unusual tiredness or weakness; vomiting; weakness of the arms, legs, or trunk. • Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your health care provider.

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ANTIFUNGALS: Topic: Azole Topical Antifungals (Vaginal) ⇒ Blood-containing blisters or pus-containing blisters on skin; increased skin sensitivity; lack of healing of skin condition; loss of top skin; numbness in fingers; raised, dark red, wart-like spots on skin; skin pain, redness, itching, thinning of skin with easy bruising With long-term or improper use: acne or oily skin; backache; burning or itching of skin with pinhead-sized red blisters; irritability; mental depression; muscle cramps, pain, or weakness; nausea; rapid weight gain or loss; reddish purple lines (stretch marks) on arms, legs, trunk, or groin; skin color changes; softening of skin; stomach bloating, pain, cramping, or burning; swelling of feet or lower legs; tearing of the skin; unusual increase in hair growth; unusual loss of hair About your medicine: Topical antifungals are used to treat fungus (yeast) infections of the vulva and the vagina. Before using this medication Tell your health care provider and pharmacist if you . . . • are allergic to any medicine, either prescription or nonprescription (OTC – over the counter)

Proper use of this medicine: • Antifungals usually come with patient directions. Read them carefully before using this medicine. • Use this medicine at bedtime, unless otherwise directed by your health care provider. • To help clear up your infection completely, it is very important that you keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms begin to clear up after a few days. If you stop using this medicine too soon, your symptoms may return. • Do not stop using this medicine if your menstrual period starts during the time of treatment. • Do not miss any doses. • If you do miss a dose of this medicine, insert it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. • To help clear up your infection completely and to help make sure it does not return, good health habits are also required. ⇒ Wear cotton panties (or pantyhose with cotton crotches) instead of synthetic (for example, nylon or rayon) panties. ⇒ Many vaginal infections are spread by having sex. A male sexual partner may carry the fungus on or in his penis. In certain circumstances, it may be

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necessary for your partner to be treated. Do not have sex during treatment. Discuss with your health care provider if your partner should be treated. Precautions while using this medicine: • If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your health care provider.

• Vaginal medicines usually will come out of the vagina during treatment. To keep the medicine from getting on your clothing, wear a minipad or sanitary napkin. • The use of tampons is not recommended since they may soak up the medicine.

Side effects that should be reported to your health care provider: • Less common–Vaginal burning or other irritation not present before use of this medicine • Rare–Skin rash or hives Side effects that usually do not require medical attention: • These possible side effects may go away during treatment; however, if they continue or are bothersome, check with your health care provider or pharmacist. • Less common or rare–abdominal or stomach cramps or pain; burning or irritation of penis of sexual partner; headache. Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some health care provider.

DIFLUCAN (Fluconazole) Fluconazole is an oral antifungal used to treat fungus infections. Tablets: You may swallow the tablet whole or crush it. Precautions:

• Check with your health care provider before taking if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or other medical problems. • Ask your health care provider or pharmacist before taking any other medications, including over-the-counter (nonprescription) products.

• Take this medicine exactly as your health care provider ordered. If you stop taking it too soon, the infection might return. • Store at room temperature, and protect from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Missed Dose: • Take the missed dose as soon as possible. • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose. • Do not take two doses at the same time.

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Side effects: • If you have problems with these or other side effects, tell your health care provider: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, headache, or skin rash. Some patients may have other side effects that are not listed below. • The following side effects may be associated with more serious complications. Call your health care provider immediately if any of the following effects occur: Yellowing of skin and eyes; unusual bleeding or bruising; dark or amber Liver Effects: • Notify your care provider if you have a history of liver disease. • Liver toxicity has occurred with antifungal treatment. • Abnormal liver function has been observed during Fluconazole therapy. Approximately 1% of Fluconazole-treated patients have developed abnormal liver studies. • When elevations of liver function tests are observed during Fluconazole therapy, close monitoring is recommended to detect the development of more serious liver injury. • Fluconazole should be discontinued in patients who develop signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease. Liver disease is usually reversible upon discontinuing Fluconazole. • Blood studies to check liver function may be required after six months of therapy. Drug Interactions Make sure your health care provider knows if you take any of the following medications. • Oral Hypoglycemics (medicines to treat diabetes). • Coumarin-Type Anticoagulants (blood thinners). • Phenytoin(Dilantin or other seizure medications). • Cyclosporine. • Rifampin (antituberculin). • Theophylline (asthma medication). • Terfenadine (Seldane). • Propulsid • Lipitor • AZT • Tagamet • Amitryptyline (Elavil). • Fluconazole tablets taken with oral contraceptives: The clinical significance of these effects is presently unknown.

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Contraindications:

• Do not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Fluconazole or similar medicines such as Miconazole. Fluconazole should be used cautiously in patients with hypersensitivity to other azoles. • Dose reductions are recommended in patients with renal insufficiency. • Immunocompromised patients who develop skin rashes while on Fluconazole should be monitored closely and the drug discontinued if the lesions progress.

Vulvar Conditions & Management:

An Educational Booklet for Patients

Copyright 1996 The Regents of the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Michigan Revised 2005 Published 1000 copies Reproduced and modified with permission from Dr. Hope K. Haefner, MD by

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Center for Vulvar Disorders

Modified/revised 2009 by Donna G. Eastham

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WholeDC Presents Megan Andelloux: The New Gay Interview

11 DECEMBER 2009, 12:00 PM

This post was submitted by michael

A bitter winter wind keeps whipping through DC, trundling brown fallen leaves through the city streets. One can hardly find defense outside from its icy wheezing. Luckily this weekend, however, someone well acquainted with cold December climate is coming to town with some tools to help us heat up the holiday season! AASECT certified Sexuality Educator and ACS certified Sexologist Megan Andelloux has been recruited by WholeDC to give two back-to-back workshops Saturday, “How to Please a Woman in Bed” and “How to Please a Man in Bed.” A resident of Pawtucket, Rhode Island (home of Hasbro; the people who brought you Jem, Mr. Potato Head, and My Little Ponies) and a self-proclaimed “sex nerd,” Megan is extending an invitation to all genders and orientations to come learn some new ways to get warm[wink]!

Megan is an author in the book “We Got Issues,” a feminist response to cultural attitudes on feminism, and a frequent expert contributor to sexualhealth.com. She is also the Founder and Director of the non-profit Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health in Pawtucket, RI. Charming, charismatic, and sincere, Megan has devoted herself to educating people about sexual health and pleasure. Through her sexual education workshops at numerous colleges and medical schools, and work with local medical providers, Megan has become renowned for her engaging teaching style, depth of knowledge, and activism. Come out to see a true Rhode Island treasure this Saturday, you won’t be disappointed! To learn more about Megan’s efforts in community outreach and her experiences as a sex educator, see the interview below. Also, take some time to peruse her amazing website providing sexual health information, reviews of popular sex toys, and sex-positive advice.

December 12, 2009 – WholeDC Presents Megan Andelloux

“How to Please a Woman in Bed” (4:00-5:30pm; Café Salsa, upstairs; $20)

“How to Please a Man in Bed” (6:30-8:00pm; Café Salsa, upstairs; $20)

(Come for both classes, $30)

**see http://wholedc.com for more details**

The New Gay: Megan, you’re a certified sex educator and sexologist. What got you started on this rather unconventional path?

Megan Andelloux: There were a couple of things. First, in college, I had a knack for memorizing sex facts… [laughs] although I’m not really sure where that came from because I was studying marine biology (at the University of Rhode Island). When you’re in college you talk about sex all the time. In small groups of friends I realized that people kept hitting on the same questions, questions I had been hearing since high school. That started to pique my interest… you know, why the same questions were still unresolved years later. Then I ended up taking a human sexuality course, as a filler, and fell in LOVE with the topic. There my penchant for sex facts came in handy. And things sort of just came together.

The other part, which I didn’t really acknowledge in the beginning, but after four years in the field I realized, was that the field of sex education was a way for me to explore sexuality in a safe manner. I had been sexually assaulted, and it wasn’t allowed to be talked about at the time. And our culture seemed to reinforce a fear of talking about this thing that, although it was on everyone’s mind, no one seemed to be able to discuss openly.

TNG:  Did you find it disheartening that this thing we have consistently done as a population since the beginning of our species (having sex), was so crippling to talk about in public?

MA: Of course! And you can see how it affects us, just look at the recent obsession with Tiger Woods. I think one of the reasons people get so wrapped up in celebrity sex scandals is because they finally give us permission to talk openly about sex. Focusing judgment and blame away from us, we readily engage in conversations about someone else’s sex life. And sometimes that can be a useful way to facilitate more probing discussion. But we need to be able to have these discussions about ourselves, and our own sexualities.

TNG: You do a lot of educational outreach within the medical community. Can you tell me a little about that work?

MA: Sure, there are two facets of my work in the medical community. One is teaching medical providers about sexuality issues, and how to be sex-positive providers. For a lot of people, their doctor is a primary source of adult sex education. So I give workshops at medical schools, of the ilk I run at any other university.  We go over sex work issues, sex toys, BDSM play, etc, to make sure they are exposed to the information and to help create a language through which they can talk to their patients comfortably. Medical students are really focused, and they learn a lot about the diseases of the body… but issues of sexual health and behavior extend past mere physical abnormalities and disease. If you don’t train people to deal with these broader issues, they aren’t as well equipped to provide health information to the public. Or worse, when confronted with candid questions they get that “deer in headlights” look, which then affects the patient’s willingness to seek out similar health advice in the future.

The other role I play in the medical community is as a gynecological teaching assistant.

TNG: Um, yeah, with that last one… which side of the examining table are you on?

MA: [laughs] Oh, I’m on the table! Part of this work is helping medical students practice their first gynecological examinations. The other part is helping established providers conduct pelvic exams on women who have been sexually assaulted, and how to make it less traumatizing. In both cases, beyond practicing physical technique there is a focus on infusing the right type of language and discussion into the examination. A small example is getting doctors to use phrases like “that looks healthy” instead of “that looks normal” … because “normal” is ambiguous and less informative. These are simple adjustments to the exam, but you’d be surprised at how much of a difference they make in effectively communicating with a patient.

TNG: Another part of your work is sexuality education to the general public, at college campuses or workshops like the one this Saturday… is it hard to establish a common ground between a sexually diverse crowd?

MA: No, not at all. Again, language is powerful and I think people can get very caught up in the language of sexuality, and the labels. But during my workshops I try to give a disclaimer that we have all joined in a place of support and respect. And besides, we are all there to talk about genitalia. I tend to use very general terms that are relatable to a diverse group, but it is important for people to know they have the permission to be themselves and to ask any question, and as a group we can find a common language.

TNG: For readers interested in attending your workshop this weekend, what should they expect? A medical overview of sex, personal experience stories, or just Q&A?

MA: I usually start off with some type of game, to warm everyone up… because it can be very nerve-racking to be sitting amongst strangers and talking about sex. I have puppets and toys, or I’ll have the group all talk dirty, just something sassy to lighten the mood [laughs]. Next, we’ll spend about 45 minutes going over anatomy. I think it’s important to build upon the general sex education we were taught in high school, and rediscover the same anatomy from a pleasure perspective… like why your body feels this way when you get touched here or apply pressure there, that sort of thing. We’ll go over all the erogenous zones, and tricks to wake them up in fun new ways. Then we go into behaviors. Questions are usually infused throughout, whenever they pop up. But you can also write anonymous questions down in the beginning of the class, and I will answer them at the end. In total, each workshop lasts almost two hours. People don’t all learn in the same way, so I definitely try to use a variety of teaching strategies and make the group as interactive as possible. I rely heavily on the extensive training I received working in the education department of Planned Parenthood affiliates to try to create a sense of comfort, and to engage people to learn and participate.

TNG: Through your work, have you noticed contemporary sexuality issues becoming prominent that haven’t been so prevalent historically?

MA: We continually struggle with getting quality sex education out to the public, and facilitating open communication. But more recently, there is a rise in discussion of porn and sex work issues. For example, there has been a dramatic increase in the labeling of “sex addiction” in our country, and debate around whether we are over-sexed as a culture. Often, focal points of this debate center on the prevalence of cheating scandals in the news, increased awareness of open relationships, and widespread acceptance of masturbation. Often conservative rhetoric in these issues relies heavily on a stance of victimization. We especially see a growing debate on the victimization of women in porn and sex work. Discussions like these bring up important issues, like how do you decide if someone is being victimized… and who gets the power to make that decision; lawmakers, interest groups, or the individuals engaged in the behavior? Who gets to set the moral values through which these actions are discussed? Why aren’t we talking about queer porn… are women the only ones subject to victimization? Is there such a thing as consensual prostitution? I am excited that communication is being initiated in the public, but I still think the current debate isn’t yet addressing the heart of these issues.

I don’t know if you’ve heard of the XXX Church. It is an anti-pornography group that seems to campaign a great deal against people masturbating, particularly men. They have been going around to college campuses with Jon Jeremy to debate issues of the benefits and hazards of porn and masturbation. These discussions are really interesting, and in time they will hit on something even more substantive. In the process, though, we should raise our awareness of the sources of our sexual information, and start thinking about who then gets to make decisions about what forms of sexual behavior are appropriate.

TNG: What is one of the most shocking things you’ve heard in discussing sex with the public?

MA: Recently I had someone disclose to me that they had put anti-bacterial hand sanitizer on their vagina to prevent STDs. Equally shocking to me, however, is when I hear that one partner feels pain during sex, but never communicates that to the other partner. We desperately need to get better at talking about sex!

TNG: On your website, you promote “feminist sex shops.” Can you describe for me the modern feminist, and what issues are most important to her?

MA: The modern feminist group that I would belong to would probably be, very simply, described as pro-choice. We want access to CHOICES in sexual education, reproductive rights, and sexual identity. We want to define as individuals what we consent to, and be free to engage in consensual behavior with others. I highlight feminist sex shops because I think that women are really playing a prominent role in guiding the discussion and advancement of sexuality in today’s society.

TNG: What made you decide to choose Pawtucket, RI to open your Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health?

MA: Well, my partner is a physician at the local hospital. But it’s more than just that. I’ve always really liked Rhode Island’s quirkiness. We lived in the Boston area for a while, but I missed Rhode Island and wanted to come back.

TNG: You seem to be getting a lot of resistance toward opening your business, can you tell me a little bit about that?

MA: The only resistance I’ve encountered has stemmed from one woman and a city official. I think both were scared of the idea of the business, and acted before they really investigated it. Unfortunately, they have a lot of power so their resistance has been felt very strongly. However, the rest of the population of Rhode Island, and even the rest of the country, have been in huge support. I’ve not received a single letter, email, or phone call from anyone expressing opposition to my business.

TNG: What continues to drive you in your work as a sex educator?

MA: “I believe that people should be able to know about their bodies, and how to appreciate and enjoy their bodies. It’s a fundamental right that we should have. And I think that anytime you stand up for something you believe in, it causes change to happen.”

TNG: Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me! It was such a pleasure to learn more about your work, and the upcoming WholeDC event!

Source: http://thenewgay.net/2009/12/wholedc-presents-megan-andelloux.html

Overblown expectations may put needless stress on otherwise rewarding relationships.

The Valley Advocate
Thursday, December 03, 2009
By Amy Littlefield

If the frenzy over Viagra is any indication, Americans these days are wrapped up in thoughts of all the ways we can “fail” at having sex. But our focus on failure—added to our stressful lives and high expectations—may in fact be holding us back from a broader, more rewarding experience of sexuality.

Despite our society’s persistent fixation on the penis, erectile dysfunction is only one aspect of what some clinicians see as a growing gap between what we want and what we actually get out of sex.

Relationship and sleep therapist Dr. Siegfried Haug of Goshen sees evidence of that gap every day. The patients who come to his Connecticut office are often strung-out, sleep-deprived, and depressed. For the couples he counsels, sexual dysfunction forms one part of a larger deterioration in the way they treat each other. And while Haug draws his data from one extreme of the spectrum, his conclusions point to what he sees as a widespread trend: a growing sense of disappointment in sex, love, and reality.

“People seem to realize there’s a huge gap between what they thought sex is and what it [actually] is,” Haug told the Advocate. “There’s this huge level of disappointment. Sex doesn’t seem to do what it’s supposed to do.”

The Internet is one culprit, Haug says, since pornography leads people to fantasize about sex in ways that are unrealistic and even harmful. For young people especially, watching relationships develop on television (where people can fall in love in five minutes) skews reality.

“Relationships take longer, they are messier, [there are] consequences that [you] don’t see,” Haug says. Seeing characters in shows have orgasm on demand, for example, can set us up for frustration; when we can’t follow suit, we believe there is something wrong.

The growing gap between expectation and reality has led to “huge waves of disappointed, disenchanted young people,” says Haug. And while the root of the problem may be the tremendous pressure we place on sexuality—and on ourselves—people are more inclined to blame their partners than to reassess their own attitudes. Straight women often sit in his office, throw up their hands, and say they are “done with men,” while heterosexual men, Haug says, are “increasingly leery of women.”

*

Scientific evidence may seem to enforce the sense that women are disappointed with sex. Ten years ago, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that 43 percent of women and 31 percent of men reported having experienced “some degree” of sexual dysfunction. But Providence, R.I.-based sex educator Megan Andelloux says that although it may be comforting for women to know that others also have trouble reaching orgasm or becoming aroused, the focus on dysfunction limits our ability to seek greater pleasure.

“I always think that there’s room for improvement, and room to play and explore,” says Andelloux. “When we call it dysfunction, we set people up for disaster, as opposed to saying they have the opportunity to grow.”

One issue for women, Andelloux says, is that heterosexual “sex” is still largely defined as penile-vaginal penetration. But what some clinicians label female sexual dysfunction may in fact be a preference for what we commonly call “foreplay.”

“Women have this belief still… [that] there’s something wrong because they are not [experiencing orgasm] during vaginal penetration,” says Andelloux, adding that we should “get rid of [the term] ‘foreplay’ and talk about that as sex. That’s how the majority of women tend to get off. It’s really reframing what we think of as sex.”

*

Northampton-based sex therapist Jassy Timberlake believes that the focus on “dysfunction” stems in part from the eagerness of pharmaceutical companies to promote Viagra and other medications that cause erections.

“Viagra was not the magic bullet that men hoped for,” Timberlake says. “It doesn’t give you desire, it just gives you an erection.” Viagra may help some men achieve erections, but when it comes to fostering desire, “I think that’s more about a conversation than it is about a pharmaceutical,” Timberlake says.

“It leaves the conversation out of the relationship, and that’s the thing that really concerns me,” adds Timberlake. “Sexuality is interpersonal and it requires two people as an erotic team, tackling whatever the issues are between them as a couple. It’s not just about a doctor and a prescription pad.”

Timberlake says she often sees couples who are disappointed that their lives don’t match what they’ve seen in pornography. “I think it’s important to stress changing expectations, and not taking medication,” says Timberlake.

*

At Oh My, a “sensuality shop” on Northampton’s Main Street, co-owner Carol Gesell and her colleagues are redefining sexual pleasure. Gesell notes that many factors affect sexual response—from the medication someone is taking to their blood pressure to their level of stress. But Gesell urges her customers toward a vision of sexuality that incorporates the whole body, including the brain.

“I don’t take them to the vibrators. I take them to the massage oil,” Gesell told the Advocate.

Gesell advises customers to remove computers and other distractions from the bedroom, to perform massages and kiss each other, and to take time to be “sensual,” not just sexual.

“If you devote time and energy to being a sensual being, it doesn’t matter if your penis works,” she says.

Despite his best efforts, some of Siegfried Haug’s patients still conclude that the stresses and strains of pleasing someone long-term just aren’t worth the effort. But when asked why he thinks some people choose to stay in lifelong partnerships, Haug has a practical and poetic explanation:

“We need data to stretch beyond selfishness to maturity,” says Haug. “My partner has the data….that is absolutely invaluable. No one can give you more information than the person you’ve lived with for 20 years. I think we have a longing and a need to grow.”

Let’s Talk About Sex!

I recently met an incredible feminist, Megan Andelloux, on campus at Brandeis University when she did a workshop on sexual pleasure and awareness as part of our annual Vagina Week, leading up to the Vagina Monologues.

 

 

As an FMLA member, this was a great feminist event – 1 – Megan is insanely empowering! 2 – we were able to pull in a lot of student’s that wouldn’t necessarily come to a FMLA meeting/event because her workshops are about improving one’s sexual awareness and skills .

Campus clubs were able to collaborate on bringing Megan to campus because she is both health and pleasure focused and fantastically entertaining.

 

Megan is about to launch an exciting new project, The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health, with a *Grand Opening* this month in Rhode Island.

To give you a chance to get to know her better and an opportunity to come to the Grand Opening where there will be lots of food, fun, give-aways and famous sex-positive feminist activists, here is an exerpt of my interview with Megan:

E: So Megan, what do you do?

M: I work as a sexuality educator in many different formats. The majority of my time is spent providing workshops at colleges and universities on topics relating to sexual pleasure and health (the focus being more on the pleasure and intertwining health in). [...] I work within the medical community, teaching medical students and providers how to be sex positive doctor’s, educating them on common concerns/questions and topics the public holds (but that they aren’t taught in med school) and finally, how to provide safe, non-threatening, empowering pelvic exams. And I do that with the use of my body (vagina, brain and mouth). [...and] I work within the media as a public policy analyst regarding sexual rights challenges to our freedoms.

E: What does being a feminist mean to you?

M: A feminist is something I would most identify myself as. My passion, my life work’s, all of my reading materials and a day to day way of life for me. To me, being a feminist is all about giving people options. The option to do this or that, go into one field vs. another, to become a sex worker, to be monogamous to one person only, choose one type of birth control over another, etc. Being a feminist means challenging others and yourself. When you feel uncomfortable, ask yourself why? When someone says something you don’t agree with or don’t understand, ask them why? It’s only through the option of challenging others, which is a right we have fought for and won, that we grow and change the world for the better. We can’t just accept what we have, we have to want to build upon it.

That’s what being a feminist and a sex educator is to me. Options. Challenging. When people go to my workshops, yes I want them to have fun and learn, but I also want them to ask questions with the information I provide! I want to push people! Because really, those questions are going to spark a change in the future. New research, new standards of roles one can possess, totally new concepts can occur when you don’t accept what is laid before you.

 

E: How did you get involved in the world of sexuality?

M: There are three answers I give to this question. The fun and easy answer is I had a knack for memorizing sex facts, don’t ask me why. I had a knack for memorizing sexual issues and it was a social issue, a perfect fit for me. At first I wanted to be a sex therapist, but I quickly found out that I wanted to help people BEFORE they ended up with sexual issues, so I went into education.

Secondly, being a Sexuality Educator was a way for me to rebel against the way a girl was supposed to behave. My parents subscribed to strict gender role behaviors and “good girls don’t talk about sex”. When I decided this was going to be my career path, I choose to tell my parents in a restaurant so they couldn’t freak out on me. The first thing that was said was Oh! Megan! Girls can’t do that! Typical. but that’s also why I choose to name my company Oh Megan! because my mother was always saying that to me for talking about sexually related topics. Oh Megan! That’s inappropriate.

Thirdly, I think I became involved in the world of sexuality because after I was raped, no one would talk to me about it. I didn’t have a space where I could fully disclose because people were uncomfortable and didn’t know how to handle the conversation. It seemed strange to me, and I was angry that our culture talks so much about sex, but we don’t provide answers when people have questions and concerns. I think becoming a sex educator was a way for me to work out some of my issues, get answers to my questions and to provide a space so others wouldn’t feel alone or ashamed for what they were thinking or had experienced.

E: The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health sounds incredible. Can you talk about the relationship between the sex-positive world and the medical world?

M: My work’s mission is to join these two world together so I had to create The Center!

Too often the medical world turns it’s back on the pleasure-focused side of sex and the pleasure-focused world is totally bored by the medical world. But they need each other to survive! The Center will be a respectable entity for medical providers to work with and is already developing ties with Boston University, Brown University, Mass General Hospital and the Robert Wood Johnson Medical Schools.

Working with professionals in the medical field, and most importantly, with medical students, we can create change within the medical school curriculum. Some medical students are starting to chime in that they want more sexuality information. (The majority of med students have 12 hours of sex education composed of birth control, pregnancy, STD’s and sometimes, pregnancy terminations.) I am working closely with Boston University Medical School and the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School to develop sexuality curriculum with fundamental structural changes.

Outside of the medical world, it’s important to remember that most people want to understand their body; what’s taking place within them. Traditionally, that information has been withheld from the public, but the feminist and pro-sex communities have some of the best documentations and discussions on sex and sexual health data.

The Center’s focus will be education and advocacy work. The CSPH will be the perfect blend of health, pleasure and advocacy. There will be written & visual resources, medical journals pertaining to sexual issues available, toys (with education on what we would/wouldn’t recommend), kink-friendly resources, sexual health and rights speakers, medical and pro-sex positive resources available for loan right from the start, and in the spring, offer a certification series for sex education classes with C.E. credits.

E: Are there any opportunities to get involved with the center either as an individual or as a campus organization?

M: Yes! The best way to get involved would be to attend the grand opening on Sept 26th in Pawtucket, RI. The grand opening will be a fund raising event and feature some of the best and brightest individuals in the field! Sex educators, sex therapists, sex worker advocates, authors, and sexual right advocates will be speaking and you can schmooze with them after they speak. (Scheduled speakers include Carol Queen, Bill Taverner, Betty Dodson, Gina Ogden, oh yeah, and me!) Tables with community and national resources will be throughout the location so people can learn more about resources they might not have known about.

You can also attend classes and workshops which will start in the fall and in the spring, apply to be an intern! As a campus organization, if you can’t come to us, we can come to you and talk about sexual advocacy issues, starting a nonprofit, getting into the field, etc.

E: How can I get you to come to my campus?!

M: Fill out the contact form here

Posted by Elisette at 11:27 AM Posted on Choices Campus Blog

 

 

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