Can vaginitis be detected through a vaginal discharge test?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 30, 2024
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Vulvitis can generally be detected by examining the vaginal discharge. Normally, vaginal discharge is clear, transparent, odorless, and minimal which is considered normal. The majority of cases of vulvitis and vaginitis are due to abnormal secretions. At this time, a definitive diagnosis can be made through the analysis of these secretions. Usually, a routine secretion test at a hospital is sufficient. If the secretion is abnormal, treatment can be based on the type of infection indicated by the routine test results. Thus, most cases of vulvitis can be diagnosed through routine vaginal discharge tests. Patients with vulvitis generally improve after a week of treatment and should pay attention to vulvar hygiene after recovery to prevent infection.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is vulvitis?

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 Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Vulvitis is caused by what?

Vulvitis is one of the most common infectious diseases in gynecology, affecting women of all ages. Since the vulva is adjacent to the urethra, vagina, and anus and the area is moist, it is prone to contamination and thus inflammation. Women of childbearing age, due to more frequent sexual activity and the vagina being a necessary passage for childbirth procedures, are susceptible to injuries and external pathogenic infections. Postmenopausal women and infants, due to low estrogen levels and consequently lower local resistance, are also prone to vulvitis.

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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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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 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.