The International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD) has been committed to promoting vulvar education to medical providers globally in order to effectively create change worldwide for more than 50 years.
79% of vulvovaginal disease experts received training in vulvovaginal disorders through self-teaching, and only 19% received vulvovaginal training during residency and 11% during fellowship (Citation: Venkatesan et al).
Many women’s health providers do not receive training in skin conditions that have a predilection for the genital area. The most common vulvovaginal conditions that present to dermatology-based referral vulvar clinics include lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, and vitiligo (Citation: Goncalves et al).
This international group of medical professionals have dedicated their studies around both educating other providers and continuing to research and find scientific evidence in order to improve quality of care for patients who present to clinic with a vulvovaginal disorder. This includes pain, skin disorders, cancers, atrophy and menopausal symptoms, sexually transmitted diseases, bacterial infections, etc.
“Over 50 years of advancing women’s health across more than 40 countries.”
“Influencing international diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines for vulvovaginal diseases.”
“Educating tens of thousands of clinicians and researchers worldwide.”
1970s: Founded with visionaries in gynecology and dermatology realizing the need for multi-specialty care and international terminology.
1987: Standardization of terminology for vulvar pain (vestibulodynia, etc.)
2006: International terminology report adopted by medical societies worldwide
2021: Developed patient-centered care initiatives through global webinars
2024: International Recommendations for the Diagnosis and Management of Lichen Sclerosus and for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vaginitis
100+ international congresses, symposia, and webinars
Online courses and clinical training initiatives
Multilingual resources for patients and providers
CME-accredited activities aligned with global standards
Members from 50+ Countries
Cooperate with numerous regional societies
Multilingual resources for patients and providers in as many as 9+ languages
The ISSVD Board of Directors is made up of Fellows of the ISSVD from various regions and specialties. They work together to help ensure that the Society goals and mission are followed. We are grateful for their dedication and tireless efforts to help us grow and attain these goals. If you are interested in serving, please contact us at issvd@issvd.org.