Understanding Vulvitis

Vulvitis, vaginitis, and vulvovaginitis refer to inflammation of a woman’s reproductive parts.

Condition	Description
Vulvitis	Vulvitis is an inflammation that affects the vulva, which is the outer part of the female external genitalia.
Vaginitis	Vaginitis is an inflammation that affects the vagina.
Vulvovaginitis	Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation that affects both the vulva and vagina.

Causes of Vulvitis

Vulvitis is common and affects women of all ages.It can be caused by various factors, which include bacterial or fungi infections (yeast infection), pubic lice, viral infections such as genital herpes infection, and skin conditions such as contact dermatitis, psoriasis or eczema.

Irritants can also cause vulvitis. Sources of irritants include scented toilet paper, pads or pantyliners, personal care products that contain fragrance such as soaps, bubble baths or vaginal sprays, spermicides that may cause an allergic reaction, irritation from swimming pool water or hot tub water, synthetic non-breathable underwear, and activities such as horse riding or cycling.

Vulvitis itself is not contagious, but some of its causes, like bacteria that lead to infections, can be. However, vulvitis resulting from allergies or skin irritation is not contagious.

Symptoms of Vulvitis

The symptoms of vulvitis may include itching, soreness, burning sensations, abnormal vaginal discharge, and rash, blisters, or sores on the vulva.

Diagnosis of Vulvitis

Vulvitis is diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical examination. Your doctor will look for skin abnormalities such as blisters, lesions, or redness that could point to vulvitis. 

Depending on the suspected cause of vulvitis, your doctor may recommend specific tests, which could include urine test, blood tests, sexually transmitted infection (STI) test, and pap smear (pap test).

Treatment for Vulvitis

Vulvitis is common and can be treated effectively. The treatments for vulvitis are dependent on the underlying cause.

For vulvitis caused by potential irritants and allergens, avoid using products that may irritate the vulva, and wear loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear.

Topical medications such as hydrocortisone ointment can be prescribed to reduce irritation and itchiness.

Antibiotics may be prescribed if vulvitis is caused by a bacterial infection. Antifungal creams may be recommended if vulvitis is caused by a yeast infection.

Over-the-counter treatments such as sitz baths, cold compresses, or topical numbing agents may provide temporary symptomatic relief from itching, burning, or discomfort associated with vulvitis.

Prevention of Vulvitis Recurrence

Vulvitis can be prevented by practicing the following tips:

Prevention tips	Description
Good personal hygiene	Clean and dry the vulvar area by washing with mild soap and water daily.  Change tampons or pads frequently during period to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth. Use unscented menstrual products. Avoid wearing panty liners or pads unnecessarily.
Avoid irritants	Avoid using harsh soaps, scented products, (perfumes, bubble baths, scented feminine hygiene products), douches. Choose unscented or hypoallergenic products. Products with harsh chemicals or with abrasive materials can irritate the skin and disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the genital area.
Wear breathable clothing	Wear loose-fitting, breathable underwear made of cotton or other natural fibres to allow air circulation and reduce moisture buildup. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and synthetic materials that can trap heat and moisture Moisture and heat cause yeast and bacteria to thrive.
Manage underlying conditions	Speak to your doctor if you have underlying medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or diabetes that increase your risk of vulvitis. Follow your treatment plan and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your health.
Practice safe sex	Use condoms during sexual activities to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause vulvitis. Communicate openly with your partner(s) about STI prevention and sexual health.

Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you have questions about vulvitis, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.