There are various causes of vulvovaginitis and it may present with symptoms such as itching, burning, or abnormal discharge. The condition is characterized by inflammation or irritation of the vulva and vagina. Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods for this condition are outlined below.
Causes
-
Bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections (such as candidiasis), trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection), or other bacterial, fungal, or viral pathogens can cause vulvovaginitis.
-
Inflammation and vulvovaginitis can result from exposure to irritants such as perfumed soaps, douches, bubble baths, or harsh chemicals.
-
During menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal therapy, fluctuations in hormone levels, especially estrogen, can affect the pH balance and moisture levels in the vagina, increasing the risk of vulvovaginal irritation.
-
The inflammation and symptoms of vulvovaginitis can be triggered by allergic reactions to certain substances, such as latex condoms, spermicides, topical medications, or personal care products.
-
Intercourse with a new partner or without proper lubrication can introduce foreign substances into the vagina, increasing the risk of vulvovaginitis.
-
A lack of adequate hygiene practices can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungal infections in the vulvovaginal area, including wearing tight-fitting or non-breathable clothing, using non-breathable panty liners, or not changing out of wet bathing suits promptly.
Symptoms
-
Vulvovaginitis may be indicated by changes in vaginal discharge, such as increased volume, unusual odor, color, or consistency (e.g., thick, curd-like).
-
A common symptom of vulvovaginitis is persistent itching, burning, stinging, or irritation of the vulva, vagina, or surrounding skin.
-
People with vulvovaginitis may experience pain or discomfort during urination (dysuria), sexual intercourse (dyspareunia), or physical activity.
-
Vulvovaginitis may cause visible redness, swelling, or inflammation of the vulvar or vaginal tissues.
-
Symptoms of vulvovaginal irritation or inflammation can include soreness, tenderness, or rawness in the vulvar area, especially when touched.
-
It may be indicative of an underlying infection or vulvovaginal imbalance if the vaginal odor is strong or foul-smelling.
Diagnosis
A combination of a medical history review, physical examination, and laboratory tests is typically required to diagnose vulvovaginitis:
-
Symptoms, medical history, sexual history, hygiene practices, recent medications, and any factors that may contribute to vulvovaginitis will be discussed by healthcare providers.
-
An examination of the pelvis and vulvar and vaginal tissues may be conducted to assess for inflammation, infection, or other vulvovaginal conditions.
-
To identify the presence of infectious agents (e.g., bacteria, yeast, parasites), a swab or sample of vaginal discharge may be collected and sent to the laboratory for microscopic examination, pH testing, or culture.
-
Vaginal pH can be measured using pH paper or a pH meter to assess acidity levels, which can help differentiate between different types of vulvovaginitis (e.g., yeast infection versus bacterial vaginosis).
-
Additional tests may be performed to diagnose underlying infections or identify causative organisms, including wet mount microscopy, potassium hydroxide preparation, or specific antigen tests.
Treatment
The treatment of vulvovaginitis depends on the underlying cause and may include:
-
Infections caused by bacteria, such as bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections (e.g., trichomoniasis), are treated with antibiotics.
-
Medications to treat yeast infections (candidiasis) include azoles (e.g., clotrimazole, miconazole) or oral fluconazole.
-
Trichomonas vaginalis infections are treated with antiparasitic medications, such as metronidazole or tinidazole.
-
Vulvovaginitis can be treated with topical corticosteroids, antifungal creams, or soothing ointments applied to the vulvar area.
-
In postmenopausal women suffering from vulvovaginal atrophy or dryness due to hormonal changes, hormonal therapy, such as estrogen creams or vaginal suppositories, may be recommended.
-
You can prevent exacerbation of vulvovaginitis symptoms by avoiding potential irritants or allergens such as scented products, harsh soaps, douches, or latex condoms.
-
Abstinence from sexual activity or the use of barrier methods such as condoms may be recommended until symptoms of vulvovaginitis resolve.
Prevention
-
To maintain vulvovaginal health, practice good hygiene, including gentle cleansing with mild soap and water, wiping from front to back after urination or bowel movements, and avoiding harsh chemicals or irritants.
-
To prevent inflammation or irritation, avoid scented products, perfumed soaps, douches, bubble baths, or harsh chemicals in the vulvar and vaginal area.
-
Sexually transmitted vulvovaginitis can be prevented by practicing safe sex practices, such as using condoms consistently and correctly, reducing the number of sexual partners, and avoiding unprotected contact with individuals who may have infections.
-
Checkups and pelvic examinations can help monitor vulvovaginal health, detect changes or abnormalities early, and address potential risk factors for vulvovaginitis.
