Ep. 64 Vulvovaginal Disorders: Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches with Dr. Hope Haefner

Vulvovaginal disorders can be very complex to manage, and many OBGYNs struggle with diagnosis and treatment, especially if topical steroids don’t improve symptoms. In this episode of the BackTable OBGYN Podcast, guest host Dr. Jessica Ritch welcomes Dr. Hope Haefner, a leading expert in women’s health, to discuss diagnosis and management of several vulvovaginal diseases. --- CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR PearsonRavitz https://pearsonravitz.com/backtable --- SYNPOSIS The discussion covers the importance of accurate diagnosis through physical exams and intake surveys, approaches to pain and symptom management, the significance of vestibulectomy, and the implementation of different treatments for conditions such as vulvodynia, lichen sclerosus, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Dr. Haefner emphasizes the importance of early treatment, the multidisciplinary approach in their clinic, the use of different types of steroids for lichen sclerosus, and innovative treatments and diagnostics. She discusses next-step treatments if common treatments aren’t working, such as the “lichen sclerosus cocktail.” Finally, the episode highlights the need for ongoing professional education and provides resources for further learning. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 04:21 - Common Symptoms and Initial Diagnosis 07:19 - Examination and Workup 13:44 - Treatment Approaches for Vulvodynia 20:27 - Managing Lichen Sclerosus 32:27 - Products to Avoid 36:29 - Anoscopy for HPV 40:34 - Addressing Hidradenitis Suppurativa 44:39 - Final Thoughts and Resources --- RESOURCES Resources for Everything Vulvovaginal Disorder (by Dr. Haefner): https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r8nhr1j8c19tn9n/AACRLvxGGSgEtZCi6Zzh-yBQa?e=2&dl=0