The vagina opens into the vestibule which is a 1/2 inch rim of tissue that encircles the vagina and is derived from endoderm being sandwiched in between tissues on either side derived from ectoderm. When the vestibule gets sensitized, irritants from other sources can perpetuate the problem even though none of the external irritants may have been the initial inciting event. Often tight clothings, exercise, sweat, urine, soaps, tampons/pads, perfumes, detergents, body rinses, lotions, perfumes, shampoos, and conditioners can be stimulants. Each patient has their own profile of sensitivities, some patients has sensitivity to all these stimulants, others have sensitivity to just a few of them. Consider the following patient:

Overall I'm 80% better, this is great! I had been having burning and itching for the past year. After seeing four gynecologists plus my PCP with no resolution to my problem I had lost all hope. I kept thinking maybe it's me but it wasn't. Fortunately, the last gynecologist I saw gave me Dr. Fowler’s information. I decided to come in. It was the best decision! I can wear pants, I can actually exercise; could not do that at all...the sweating was a killer. Don't have itching in vaginal area any more either. All burning has resolved. Dr. Fowler's expertise have given me back my life. I would highly recommend any woman suffering from severe itching and burning to consult with Dr. Fowler." R. Phoenix, Arizona

The condition this woman describes is known as vulvodynia which simply means vulvar pain. It was first reported in the 1870’s and then mysteriously, no further reports occurred in the literature until 100 years later in the 1970’s. Since then the condition has returned with vengeance and the number of cases are still on the rise. Most gynecologists still believe the etiology of most cases of vulvodynia remains unknown. At Fowler Gyn International, Dr. Fowler believes otherwise. He offers advanced diagnostic testing and thousands of women have been successfully treated. If you are ready for expert help, contact Dr. R. Stuart Fowler at FowlerGynInternational.com or 480-420-4001