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Please note our new office address: 300 Hickman Rd, Ste. 301, Charlottesville, 22911. Less than 1 mile from our old office!

Please note our new office address: 300 Hickman Rd, Ste. 301, Charlottesville, 22911. Less than 1 mile from our old office!

Vaginal Lesions Treatment in Charlottesville, VA

Receive compassionate treatment for your gynecological health.

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What are Vaginal Lesions?

Vaginal lesions are abnormal growths or areas of damaged tissue in or around the vagina and vulvar skin. These lesions can vary in appearance and can sometimes be benign tumors or malignant conditions. Common types of vaginal lesions include genital sores, ulcers, and growths. Identifying and diagnosing these lesions helps guide appropriate treatment and address potential complications, including those linked to sexually transmitted diseases like genital herpes or bacterial infections.

Why are Vaginal Lesions a Concern?

Vaginal lesions can be concerning for several reasons:

  • They might indicate an underlying infection, such as sexually transmitted infections, genital herpes, or bacterial infections
  • They can cause discomfort, pain, or vaginal bleeding, particularly during sexual intercourse
  • Some lesions, such as squamous cell hyperplasia, have the potential to develop into cancer if left untreated
  • They can be a sign of a chronic condition, such as vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia or lichen sclerosus, which requires ongoing management
  • Some lesions can recur and require specific treatments

Who Should Be Evaluated for Vaginal Lesions?

If you experience any of the below, you should consider scheduling an appointment for an evaluation:

  • Unexplained or painful genital sores, ulcers, or growths
  • Persistent itching, burning sensations, or pain in the vaginal area
  • Unusual vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, or unexplained changes in the female genital tract
  • A history of sexually transmitted infections or other gynecological conditions
  • Any visible changes in the skin or tissue of the vaginal area

What are the Risks of Untreated Vaginal Lesions?

While not all vaginal lesions are harmful, leaving certain lesions untreated can pose risks, including:

  • Persistent pain or discomfort, affecting quality of life and sexual intercourse
  • Spread of infection to other parts of the body or to sexual partners
  • Development of scar tissue or changes in vaginal tissue structure, including the female genital tract
  • Progression to more severe conditions, such as squamous cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer)

What To Expect

If you're experiencing symptoms or have noticed any unusual changes in your vaginal area, it is important to receive care. During your appointment at The Center For Advanced Gynecology, your provider will discuss your symptoms and medical history in detail.

The evaluation might include a physical examination of the vaginal and vulvar area, and if necessary, your provider might recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy or imaging, to determine the nature of the lesion. Depending on the findings, your provider will discuss the appropriate treatment options with you, which could range from monitoring the lesion to medical or surgical intervention.

After your appointment, your provider will follow up with you regarding any test results and the next steps in your care plan.

Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology

The Center for Advanced Gynecology, established in 2018, is dedicated to improving your health by offering expertise in various areas, with a specific focus on gynecological care and advanced surgical techniques when surgery is needed.

Our team provides specialized expertise in non-surgical treatment of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and vaginal, vulvar, and bladder pain.

Since opening our doors, we have recognized the need in our community for more than just specialty care and have a growing practice in routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast care, contraceptive care, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vaginal lesions can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections such as sexually transmitted infections (e.g., genital herpes, bacterial infections), chronic skin conditions like lichen sclerosus or squamous cell hyperplasia, trauma or injury to the genital area, and in some cases, cancer such as squamous cell carcinoma.

Some vaginal lesions, particularly those caused by minor infections like yeast infections or trauma, can heal on their own with proper care and hygiene. However, it's important to have any genital sore or ulcer evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out more serious conditions that require treatment.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and might include additional tests such as a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken for analysis. Your provider might also perform blood tests or imaging studies if needed to determine the cause of the lesion.

While not all vaginal lesions can be prevented, practicing good genital hygiene, using protection during sexual activity, and attending regular gynecological check-ups can help reduce your risk. Vaccination against HPV is also recommended to prevent certain types of lesions associated with the virus.