Vulvitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Complications, Prevention, Expectations, Exams and Tests, incidence and risk factors

Vulvitis

Is inflammation of the external female genitalia (vulva). The vulva includes the "lips" or folds of skin, the clitoris and the openings of the urethra and vagina.

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Vulvitis may be caused by a number of conditions, among which are:

* Allergies, particularly to soaps, colored toilet paper, vaginal sprays, laundry detergents, bubble bath, or fragrances
* Dermatitis, seborrhea or eczema prolonged
* Fungal and bacterial infections, pediculosis, or scabies

Vulvitis can affect women of all ages. The condition may be due to low estrogen levels in young women and women who have reached menopause.

Symptoms

The following symptoms affecting the skin in the vulvar area:

* Burning or itching
* Possible small cracks in the vulvar skin
* Possible vaginal discharge
* Redness and swelling
* Thickening of the skin

Exams and Tests

A pelvic examination reveals redness and thickening and may reveal cracks or skin lesions on the vulva.

If you have any vaginal discharge, a wet prep can show that an infection such as vulvovaginitis or vaginitis, is the cause.

Treatment

Stop using any products that may cause irritation. Apply cortisone cream counter two or three times a day over the affected area, up to a week. If these measures do not relieve symptoms, see a doctor.

Vaginal infections should be treated appropriately. You can use a cortisone cream to decrease vulvar itching.

If treatment fails, you can make a skin biopsy to rule out vulvar dystrophy, or vulvar dysplasia, a precancerous condition. It also may require a biopsy if you have any skin lesions.

Expectations (prognosis)

The itching can be difficult to control, but after identifying and treating the cause, should disappear in a few weeks.

Complications

Itching of the vulva may be a sign of genital warts (human papillomavirus, HPV, by its initials in English), vulvar dystrophy, or cancerous or precancerous conditions of the vulva.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), which can cause vulvitis, may lead to other problems such as infertility, and should be treated appropriately.

Calling your health care

Make an appointment with the doctor if symptoms and do not respond to measures of care or if vaginal discharge accompanies the symptoms. Also call if you notice sores on the vulva.

Prevention

Daily cleansing with mild soap, adequate rinsing and thorough drying of the genital area may help.

Avoid using aerosol sprays, fragrances, or powders for feminine hygiene products in the genital area.

Similarly, avoid the use of pants or shorts are too tight can cause irritation by constantly rubbing against the skin and also reduce air circulation.

Wear cotton underwear or pantyhose with cotton. Avoid clothing made of silk or nylon, because these materials are highly absorbent and restrict airflow. This can increase sweating in the genital area, which can cause irritation and may provide a better environment for infectious organisms.

Do not wear sweaty exercise clothing for long periods.

The infections can be spread by intimate or sexual contact can be prevented or minimized by avoiding sexual activity or practicing safer sex behaviors.