What is vulvitis?

Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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Vulvitis is an inflammation of the vulva caused by various bacteria and pathogens, or adverse irritations such as allergies. It can be due to a local skin infection, or it can be a spread of infection from conditions such as vaginitis, urethritis, or perianal diseases, and it can even be a complication of systemic diseases. Symptoms of vulvitis may include swelling, redness, increased skin temperature, ulceration, pain, and itching in the perineal area. If the condition persists, the skin in the affected area may thicken and become rough, resembling lichenification. Severe cases may lead to labial adhesion or labial abscess formation.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

Patients with vulvitis mainly exhibit symptoms such as itching, pain, or a burning sensation, along with swelling and bleeding of the vulva. If not treated promptly, it can lead to erosion or extensive eczema. Additionally, vulvitis can cause intense pain and urinary pain after sexual intercourse. Patients should use antibacterial and anti-inflammatory medications for treatment. Furthermore, choosing cleansing solutions to maintain cleanliness of the affected area and avoiding spicy and irritating foods in daily life is advisable.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Why does vulvitis keep recurring?

Women frequently experience recurrent episodes of vulvitis for various reasons. A common issue is that during treatment, the medication used is not suitable for their condition as they do not get their secretions tested before starting medication. Additionally, even if the medication is appropriate, some women do not complete the full course of treatment and stop taking the medicine once symptoms improve, which can lead to recurrence. Furthermore, some women have lower resistance around their menstrual period or during menstruation, making them more susceptible to recurrent episodes. Another factor contributing to recurrent vulvitis includes untreated underlying causes such as diabetes, urinary incontinence, or fecal fistula. Some women do not frequently change their underwear or pay attention to the cleanliness of the vulvar area, which can also lead to recurrent inflammation. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

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 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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Does vulvar eczema belong to vulvitis?

Vulvar eczema and vulvitis are not the same disease; they are different from each other. Vulvar eczema is mainly caused by contact with allergens, such as dampness in the genital area, or new underwear and sanitary napkins, leading to itching and rashes on the vulva. It is an allergic reaction, and the treatment is primarily focused on anti-allergy therapy. On the other hand, vulvitis is caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. The local symptoms of vulvitis can be similar to those of vulvar eczema, but the treatment mainly focuses on anti-infection therapy.