Genital Diseases in Males and Females
Skin problems can be unsightly and embarrassing for sufferers, especially when the problem is located on a highly visible part of the face or body. However, there are other skin conditions that aren’t immediately visible but create just as much distress for some people. Genital diseases fall into this latter category, as together with feelings of embarrassment, these diseases can result in self-image and relationship problems, difficulty with sexual function and the stigma associated with disfigurement of private parts.
There are a number of genital diseases requiring dermatological or medical intervention, and as always, early diagnosis is recommended for a fast and complete recovery. Unfortunately, treatment is often delayed for a number of reasons including natural shyness, fear, misinformation and denial. It’s worth understanding that genital diseases are far more common than most people realise, and experiencing negative emotions associated with such problems is quite normal.
On a positive note, most genital diseases are relatively harmless and easily treated by professional dermatologists who specialise in curing every known type of skin problem or disease. Expert assistance at Pymble Dermatology is undertaken in a dedicated clinical environment and overseen by caring and compassionate staff familiar with all genital diseases.
Genital skin disease types
It’s natural to be concerned about your own health as the onset of genital disease is certainly a distressing situation. It’s equally important to have a genital disease diagnosed for the sake of your partner, as some genital diseases are highly contagious and extremely harmful if left untreated. Any skin problem should be investigated by a qualified dermatologist and genital disease is no exception. Genital diseases affect both men or women.
Disease types include:
- genital itch in males
- genital itch in females
- non-sexually transmitted infections
- sexually transmitted infections
- vaginal discharge
- genital pain
- skin lesions
The above categories can be sub-divided into many individual disease types, and although some diseases disappear of their own accord, most require medical attention to heal adequately.
Genital itch in males
Balanitis – inflammation of the glans penis (head of the penis)
Pruritus ani – itchiness in the anus area
Dermatitis (eczema) – localised itch; atopic dermatitis; seborrhoeic dermatitis; irritant contact dermatitis; allergic contact dermatitis; intertrigo (chafing)
Genital itch in females
Itchy Vulva – in adult women and pre-pubertal girls
Pruritus ani – itchiness in the anus area
Dermatitis (eczema) – all conditions as noted above for men
Psoriasis – scaly irritating patches
Lichen sclerosus – white thin ivory patients patches
Genital pain in males
Balanitis – including plasma cell balanitis
Behcet disease – blood vessel inflammation causing ulcers
Erosive lichen planus – (often also affecting the mouth)
Crohn’s disease – can cause ulcers, swelling and granulomas
Dysaesthesia – burning sensation often associated with redness
Genital pain in females
Dyspareunia – painful sex
Atrophic vulvovaginitis – thinning skin tissue often leading to infection
Behcet disease – blood vessel inflammation causing ulcers
Erosive lichen planus – skin rash related to the immune system
Plasma cell vulvitis – inflammatory disorder showing bright-red lesions
Fixed drug eruption
Crohn’s disease
Genital ulceration
The above lists are just a partial summary of genital problems, with many more diseases affecting both men and women from all walks of life. For example, vaginal discharge can be a sign of sexually or non-sexually transmitted infections including vaginitis, with genital malodour or other symptoms often present. Skin infections are also common in warm, humid environments typical of the genital area.
Males and females can suffer from bacterial, fungal or viral infections of the genital area, with symptoms including boils, sores, dryness, scaling and itchiness. Genital herpes is the most common viral infection, resulting in recurring blisters or sores. Parasitic infestations also thrive in the genital area, with lice and scabies amongst the most well-known. There are also a large number of non-infectious skin lesions that are prone to develop around the genital area.
As there are so many prevalent genital diseases, an accurate diagnosis is extremely important. The onset of genital disease is a frightening experience that can only be countered by understanding the problem, with the help of a qualified medical practitioner. Pymble Dermatology have caring professionals on-hand to provide accurate diagnosis and treatment for every kind of skin problem. Visit us today for a comprehensive consultation that will set your mind at ease.
