Spanish consensus on vulvar disorders in postmenopausal women

Abstract

Introduction: The consequences of vulvar disorders in terms of health, sexuality, and quality of life are usually undervalued, with disparities in the conceptual, diagnosis and treatment criteria.

Aim: The objective of this guide will be to analyse the factors associated with the diagnosis and treatment of vulvar disorders and to provide recommendations for the most appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures.

Methodology: A panel of experts from various Spanish scientific societies related to sexual health (Spanish Menopause Society [SMS] and the Asociación Española de Patología Cervical y Colposcopia [AEPCC]) met to reach a consensus on these issues and to decide the optimal timing and methods based on the best evidence available.

Results: We recommend a biopsy of all vulvar lesions with an uncertain diagnosis, especially with asymmetry, irregular borders, variegated and irregular colour and diameter >6mm. For vulvodynia, we recommend the use of lubricants or topical treatments with lidocaine or bupivacaine, amitriptyline, baclofen or triamcinolone. For vulvar epithelial disorders, we recommend beginning with topical corticosteroids of moderate to high potency. For sexual dysfunction, a multidisciplinary approach is the best management strategy in these patients.

Keywords: Postmenopausal symptoms; Sexual health; Vulvar skin disorders; Vulvodynia.