Why Medical Training Must Prioritize Vulvar Health: Addressing Misdiagnoses and Improving Patient Care
For too long, vulvar health has been sidelined in medical education, often resulting in misdiagnoses and inadequate patient care. According to Dr. Maria Uloko, this negligence is costing millions of people proper care. In her recent appearance on Head South Radio, Dr. Maria highlighted the gap, stating, “Most medical professionals don’t receive adequate training in vulvar health. They’re more focused on childbirth and cancer, leaving issues like vulvar pain, infections, and sexual discomfort largely overlooked.” The result? Patients are frequently misdiagnosed and being treated for urinary tract infections or yeast infections when the real issue lies with vulvar health.
A 2019 study in The Lancet found that people with vulvar pain conditions wait, on average, seven years to get a correct diagnosis. Dr. Maria emphasized, “There are only seven fellowship-trained professionals like me in the world. We are doing our best to close the gap, but this is a systemic issue that needs to be addressed through better medical education.” While these specialist work tirelessly to bridge the gap, the solution lies in improved medical training and awareness.Â
Why Vulvar Health Deserves Attention in Medical Training–and How to Advocate for Your Own Care
If you’re experiencing persistent vulvar pain or discomfort, it’s important to become your own advocate. Here are steps to ensure you get the care you deserve:
- Do Your Research: Familiarize yourself with your symptoms and conditions like vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, or hormone-related issues. Websites like the National Vulvodynia Association and Dr. Maria’s own Vulva AI are great resources.
- Use Specific Language: When speaking to your doctor, use precise terms like “vulvar pain” or “vestibule irritation.” If they dismiss your concerns or only treat you for UTIs or yeast infections, insist on a vulvar examination or ask to be referred to a specialist.
- Be Persistent: If your doctor isn’t addressing your concerns, it’s okay to seek a second opinion. Dr. Maria notes, “Doctors aren’t always trained to look at the vulva, but that doesn’t mean you should suffer in silence. Advocate for yourself”.
Supporting Patients in Vulvar Care
For healthcare providers, supporting patients with vulvar health concerns means stepping outside traditional diagnostic practices. Dr. Maria suggests that doctors “start by listening without assumptions and expanding their knowledge base. Vulvar health is an emerging field, and there’s a lot to learn from both research and patient experiences”.
Healthcare providers should seek out specialized training, attend conferences on vulvar health, and work with pelvic floor therapists or sexual health specialists. The goal is to provide a holistic, patient-centered approach that prioritizes quality of life.
🎧Listen to Head South Radio:
Episode 56: The Future of Vulva Health with Dr. Maria Uloko
Dr. Maria Uloko, a leading urologist in sexual health, as she breaks down essential aspects of vulva health, from the difference between the vulva and vagina to the transformative power of regenerative care.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
🤓 Read:
How AI and Tech are Revolutionizing Vulvar Health Care
Understanding Vulvar Health: Essential Tips for Comfort and Care
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