Definition
Vulvovaginitis is inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina.
Symptoms
- Irritation and itching of the genital area
- Inflammation (irritation, redness, and swelling) of the labia majora, labia minora, or perineal area
- Vaginal discharge
- Foul vaginal odor
- Discomfort or burning when urinating
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Definition
Vulvovaginitis is inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina.
Symptoms
- Irritation and itching of the genital area
- Inflammation (irritation, redness, and swelling) of the labia majora, labia minora, or perineal area
- Vaginal discharge
- Foul vaginal odor
- Discomfort or burning when urinating
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Causes
Vulvovaginitis can affect women of all ages and is extremely common. It can be caused by bacteria, yeasts, viruses, and other parasites. Some sexually transmitted diseases can also cause vulvovaginitis, as can various chemicals found in bubble baths, soaps, and perfumes. Environmental factors such as poor hygiene and allergens may also cause this condition.
Candida albicans , which causes yeast infections, is one of the most common causes of vulvovaginitis in women of all ages. Antibiotic use can lead to yeast infections by killing the normal antifungal bacteria that live in the vagina. Yeast infections typically cause genital itching and a thick, white vaginal discharge.
Another cause of vulvovaginitis is bacterial vaginosis, an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria in the vagina. ...
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Treatment
The cause of the infection determines the appropriate treatment. It may include oral or topical antibiotics and/or antifungal creams, antibacterial creams, or similar medications. A cream containing cortisone may also be used to relieve some of the irritation. If an allergic reaction is involved, an antihistamine may also be prescribed. For women who have irritation and inflammation caused by low levels of estrogen (postmenopausal), a topical estrogen cream might be prescribed.
Improved perineal hygiene is necessary to help healing and to prevent future reinfection for those whose infections are caused by bacteria normally found in stool. Sitz baths may be recommended. It is often helpful to allow more air to reach the genital area. Wearing cotton underwear (rather than nylon) or underwear that has a cotton lining in the crotch area allows greater ...
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Other Names
Vaginitis; Vaginal inflammation; Inflammation of the vagina
Possible Complications
- Discomfort that does not go away
- Skin infection (from scratching)
- Complications due to the cause of the condition (such as gonorrhea and candida infection)
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Outlook (Prognosis)
Proper treatment of an infection is usually very effective.
Prevention
Use of a condom during sexual intercourse can prevent most sexually transmitted vaginal infections. Proper fitting and adequately absorbent clothing, combined with good hygiene of the genital area also prevents many cases of non-infectious vulvovaginitis.
Children should be taught how to properly clean the genital area while bathing or showering. Proper wiping after using the toilet will also help (girls should always wipe from the front to the back to avoid introducing bacteria from the rectum to the vaginal area).
Hands should be washed thoroughly before and after using the bathroom.
Exams and Tests
A pelvic examination may reveal red, tender vulvar or vaginal skin. Any lesions or sores should be inspected. A wet prep (microscopic evaluation of vaginal discharge) is usually done to identify a vaginal infection or overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. In some cases, a culture of the vaginal discharge may identify the organism causing the infection.
Trying to diagnose the condition by symptoms alone is very inaccurate in determining the cause of vulvovaginitis. Furthermore, self-diagnosis and treatment with over-the-counter medications (such as yeast infection creams) is unwise and may lead to incorrect and ineffective use of these products. For this reason, vulvovaginitis should be diagnosed by a health care provider.
