What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 22, 2024
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When women experience inflammation of the vulva, the clinical symptoms are generally similar. Firstly, we may observe some abnormal secretions in the vulvar area, such as purulent secretions with a foul smell, accompanied by local itching. Furthermore, when the inflammation in the female vulvar area is severe, it can lead to local skin mucosa congestion, edema, and reduced elasticity. This can cause severe pain during walking due to friction, or during intercourse due to mechanical irritation, and may even lead to painful bleeding. Additionally, in some women, the inflammation may be intense enough to form small abscesses locally, meaning small lumps may appear or small white pus spots may be present on the local area.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to deal with vulvar inflammation?

When inflammation and swelling of the vulva occur, it is essential to pay attention to personal hygiene and wash with clean water after defecation. The secretions of the vulva are acidic and contain normal flora, which helps prevent bacterial infections. Avoid frequently washing the vulva with medications or other washes. In cases of vulvar inflammation, it is advisable to wear breathable cotton underwear to avoid wearing too tight underwear and to use anti-inflammatory ointments to treat swelling. Furthermore, women experiencing this condition should avoid foods that can cause irritation and inflammation of the genitals, such as soft-shelled turtles, crabs, chicken, goose, lamb, etc., and should also avoid spicy and irritating foods.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Does vulvitis affect pregnancy?

If inflammation of the vulva is found after pregnancy, it generally does not affect the normal pregnancy and the development of the embryo. Vulvar inflammation is often caused by long-term stimulation by excessive vaginal secretions. In such cases, it is necessary to promptly and thoroughly wash and care for the vulvar area, or take sitz baths to alleviate symptoms. It is also important to keep the vulvar area clean and dry, avoid using panty liners, wear cotton underwear, and maintain personal hygiene to reduce the occurrence of vulvar inflammation.

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Written by Zhou Yan
Geriatrics
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Candidal vulvovaginitis is caused by what?

Streptococcal vulvitis is an inflammation of the vulva caused by streptococci. The primary reasons for this condition are as follows: Firstly, inadequate hygiene; secondly, improper use of antibiotics, such as overuse, long-term use, or use of cleansers; thirdly, transmission through sexual activity, such as when one partner in a couple has a streptococcal vulvitis infection and transmits it to the other; fourthly, a decrease in immune resistance, such as in patients with diabetes or those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer; and fifthly, in patients with injuries to the vulva.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is the best treatment for vulvitis?

Simple vulvitis requires attention to personal hygiene. Use gynecological antipyretic and dampness-clearing washes for local cleansing to achieve a cleaning and disinfection effect. Also, wear loose, breathable, cotton underwear, and avoid wearing tight outer clothing. If it is during the menstrual period, change sanitary napkins frequently. Avoid intercourse during the illness. Generally, with active treatment, it can be cured. If the vulvitis is accompanied by other conditions such as vaginitis, urethritis, perianal abscess, or perianal diseases, then active treatment of the primary disease is required while treating the vulvitis.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvar inflammatory swellings heal by themselves?

If the vulva has only developed an inflammatory lump, it can be cured because as the inflammation subsides, the lump may gradually shrink and fall off. However, it is crucial to determine whether a vulvar lump is inflammatory or malignant. Therefore, patients with vulvar lumps may need to have a biopsy of the vulvar tissue sent to the pathology department to determine its origin. For inflammatory lumps, topical application of erythromycin ointment can be used; it can heal on its own. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)