Gynecologic Infectious Disease Clinic

Gynecologic Vulvar and Vaginal Disease Clinic

Gynecologic infectious diseases are an important health concern for women, and are often difficult to dicuss with a physician. 

Women may be plagued by persistent irritation of the vagina or vulva, discharge, itching or pain. Others have trouble with frequently recurring infections. And sometimes these problems lead to such discomfort that daily work and leisure activities are affected. Sexual dysfunction is also a common side effect.

The University of Vermont Medical Center's gynecologists are compassionate and skilled, and specialize in chronic and recurrent symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Treatment of GYN Infectious Diseases

Gynecologists in Burlington, VT at The UVM Medical Center evaluate and treat women with acute and chronic vulvar and vaginal symptoms, including burning, itching, discharge and pain.

These problems can have many causes, including infection, inflammation, previous surgery or trauma, loss of estrogen, and exposure to irritating substances, and can sometimes be made worse by traumatic life experiences or emotional state.

When patients come to our clinic, they should expect any of the following:

• Detailed questions about how the symptoms began, how they have changed over time, previous treatments and whether or not they were effective.
• Questions about hygiene and education on how to protect the vulva and vagina from irritating substances and treat dryness.
• General questions about overall physical health
• Questions about emotional health, life stressors, concerns regarding sexuality
• Questions about previous infections of the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries
• A pelvic exam
• The taking of cultures and biopsies
• Blood tests

Some patients will need to be referred to other UVM Medical Center specialists for further evaluation.

These problems are sometimes solved quickly, but many require long-term treatment, and continued follow-up for the rest of the patient's life. Acute and chronic problems may require a combination of treatments including:

• Oral medication
• Antibiotics
• Medicines that act on local nerves
• Hormones
• Antidepressants
• Topical medication
• Alternative therapies
• Physical and behavioral therapy
• Participation in one-on-one or group counseling and support
• Surgery

Contact Us

Our clinic is also involved in clinical research to help further our understanding of chronic vulvar and vaginal disease. Patients at our clinic may be invited to participate in such research.

To schedule an appointment at the FAH Campus in Colchester, please call 802-847-1400.