🔍 What Is a Recessed Vulva?

A recessed vulva (or juvenile vulva) is a condition where a dog’s vulva is hidden beneath excess skin folds. While some dogs never have issues, others may experience recurrent infections due to trapped moisture, warmth, and bacteria. The condition is most often seen in medium to large breeds, particularly if they are overweight. 🧬

⚠️ Why It Matters

Skin folds around the vulva trap urine and create a moist environment—ideal for bacteria to flourish. This can lead to:

• 💢 Perivulvar dermatitis (infection of surrounding skin)
• 🦠 Vaginitis
• 🚽 Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• 🛌 Urinary incontinence during sleep or rest (USMI)

🔎 Clinical Signs

• 🐕 Scooting or excessive licking of the vulva
• 👃 Foul odor from the area
• 🚽 Bloody urine, house soiling, straining to urinate
• 💧 Urine leakage while resting

🧪 Diagnosis

Your veterinarian can often diagnose a recessed vulva visually. Additional tests may include:

• 🧫 Urinalysis and urine culture
• 🩺 Physical exam to assess fold depth and irritation
• 📸 Imaging (X-rays or ultrasound)
• 🔬 Cystoscopy for detailed examination of the urinary tract and vagina

💊 Treatment Options

Conservative Care

• 🧼 Medicated wipes or shampoos to clean the folds
• ⚖️ Weight loss to reduce skin folding
• 📆 Monitor closely through heat cycles (vulva may enlarge)
• 💊 Treat infections as needed (topicals, antibiotics)

Surgical Correction: Vulvoplasty

When conservative care fails, vulvoplasty is performed. This surgery removes excess skin around the vulva, allowing better ventilation and less bacterial buildup. 🔪

Before surgery, your vet may recommend:

• 🧪 Urinalysis, urine culture, and blood work
• 📸 Imaging or cystoscopy to rule out other causes

🔧 Post-Operative Care

• 🏡 2 weeks of restricted activity—leash walks only
• 🧴 E-collar to prevent licking
• 🔁 Follow-up in 10–14 days for suture removal
• 🧫 Pre-op infections must be resolved first
• 💉 Pain meds and possibly antibiotics post-op

In rare cases, a second surgery may be needed if not enough skin was removed the first time.

📋 Quick Reference Table

🛡️ Prevention Tips

• 🧼 Keep vulvar area clean
• ⚖️ Maintain healthy weight
• 🔍 Check folds regularly, especially in long-haired or heavy-coated dogs
• 🩺 Report any signs of discomfort or UTI to your vet

🔧 Ask A Vet Can Help

Suspect your dog has a recessed vulva or recurrent UTIs? Use the Ask A Vet app to share symptoms or photos and get fast advice from licensed veterinarians. 🐕📱

🐾 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Recessed vulvas aren’t always a problem—but when they are, they can cause repeated discomfort and infection. Thankfully, both medical and surgical treatments are effective. If your dog is struggling, don’t wait. Relief may be just a vet visit away. 💙