Filling a gap in the literature, The Vulva:

• examines differences in cultural, economic, and hygienic practices around the world
• describes variations in epithelial structure, blood flow, hormonal and immune responsiveness, barrier function, permeability, irritant susceptibility, and microbial colonization of the vulva
• summarizes the morphology and physiology of the vulva and the vagina from infancy through old age
• reviews differences in vulvular skin properties and functioning among various ethnic groups
• reviews currently available non-invasive bioengineering methods to monitor early inflammatory changes, and detect clinical and subclinical vulvar lesions, such as in irritant contact dermatitis
• contains chapters on exposure of the vulva to consumer hygienic products such as soaps and body washes, towelettes, deodorant sprays, fragrances, and menstrual products, and discusses their possible health effects

Addressing common misconceptions concerning the dermatologic composition and assessment of vulvular skin, Vulva: Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology is a unique compilation of current research and information on the anatomy, physiology, toxicology, microbiology, and diagnosis of the vulva and surrounding anatomical structures. A must-have source for anyone treating female patients, this source considers age and ethnicity factors and analyzes a wide range of symptoms, skin conditions, and diseases that physicians may encounter when caring for female patients.

Contents

Anatomy and Physiology

• Anatomy of the Vulva
• Tissue Structure and Physiology of the Vulva
• Changes in the Vulva and Vagina Throughout Life
• Microbial Ecology of the Vulva

Symptoms, Diseases and Therapies

• Are Vaginal Symptoms Ever Normal
• Common Diseases of the Vulva
• Idiopathic Vulvodynia. Vulvar Vestibulitis Syndrome Vulvar Therapies: Evidence Versus Testimony

Menses, Hygiene and Products

• The Menstrual Cycle, the Composition of Menses, and the Effect of Menses on the Skin
• The Menstrual Cycle and the Skin
• Genital Hygiene Culture, Practices and Health Impact
• Products for Vulvar Hygiene

Ethnicity and Sociology

• Vulva Ethnic Differences: An Overview
• Female Genital Alterations: A Sociological Implication

Investigational Methods

• Bioengineering Methods for the Vulva
• Transepidermal Water Loss Dynamics of Human Vulvar and Thigh Skin
• Vulvar Toxicology
• Consumer Research

Index

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