Why does vulvitis keep recurring?

Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 28, 2024
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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 Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

Vulvitis primarily manifests as itching, pain, and a burning sensation in the vulvar skin. After activities, sexual intercourse, urination, and defecation, symptoms can worsen. During the acute inflammatory phase, one might observe that the vulva is congested, swollen, and eroded, often showing scratch marks, and in severe cases, ulcers or eczema may form. In chronic inflammation, examination may reveal thickened, rough, and cracked vulvar skin, which might even undergo lichen-like changes. Vulvitis may be caused by pathogens or by non-infectious factors such as physical or chemical agents leading to inflammation of the vulvar skin or mucous membrane. If the condition is caused by pathogens, active anti-inflammatory treatment is necessary. However, if it is triggered by non-infectious factors, one should actively identify and eliminate the underlying cause and improve local hygiene. For instance, in the case of diabetic patients, it is crucial to treat the condition promptly and control blood sugar levels. If there is fistula formation, such as urinary or fecal fistulas, timely repair should be done to eliminate the cause of the disease, allowing it to naturally heal on its own.

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Written by Su Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How many days can vulvitis be cured?

Vulvitis is caused by irritation from menstrual blood and vaginal secretions, or lack of attention to local cleanliness, among other reasons. Additionally, friction of skin and mucous membranes, local moisture, and poor breathability can lead to itching, pain, and burning sensations in the vulvar skin and mucous membranes. In the acute phase, there may be congestion, swelling, and erosion seen in the vulva, sometimes with scratch marks. The general treatment principle is to eliminate the cause, improve local hygiene, and keep the vulvar area clean and dry. Clean the vulva daily and keep the area dry.

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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 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 Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
39sec home-news-image

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.