Vulvovaginitis - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What Is Vulvovaginitis?

An infection or inflammation of the vulva and vagina is known as vulvovaginitis. Girls and women of all ages are affected by this common condition. Several factors contribute to it. It manifests most frequently while a woman is in her reproductive years. This condition is also known as vulvitis and vaginitis.

What Are the Causes of Vulvovaginitis?

Various factors might lead to an infection in the vulval and vaginal regions. When the usual ratio of bacteria and yeast in the vagina becomes out of balance, vaginitis results. Numerous factors may be responsible for this, such as an infection, a hormonal change, the use of antibiotics, or a reaction to something (foreign object) that comes into contact with the vulva or vagina. The following are the most common causes responsible for vulvovaginitis-

• Bacteria - Some bacteria can grow and result in vulvovaginitis. The most frequent type of vulvovaginitis is bacterial vaginosis, which is caused by overgrowth. Bacteria like Staphylococcus or Streptococcus can exist but typically do not cause an infection. In the vagina, the bacterium Gardnerella is frequently found. Bacteria may cause a discharge that is grayish-white and has a fishy odor.

• Yeast-Candida albicans is one of the most common causes of vulvovaginitis. Itching in the genital area and a thick, white vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese can be due to a yeast infection. Women who take antibiotics may occasionally get yeast infections. This is because antibiotics can destroy the antifungal bacteria that naturally inhabit the vagina.

• Parasites - Inflammation in the vulva and vagina can be due to pinworms, scabies, and lice.

• Virus - The majority of viruses that can cause vulvovaginitis are sexually transmitted. Herpes and the human papillomavirus (HPV) are examples.

• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) - Vulvovaginitis can result from STIs such as trichomoniasis. Genital pain, itching, and copious discharge are symptoms of this infection. The discharge may be gray, green, or yellow. It usually has a strong odor. Herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia can all result in vaginitis.

• Allergy to Chemicals - Some chemical substances can lead to vulvovaginitis. These are frequently present in feminine sprays, vaginal contraceptives, soaps, and perfumes.

• Environmental Factors and Poor Hygiene - Allergens and poor hygiene (poor perineal hygiene) might also contribute to this condition. Tight clothing can irritate the skin by rubbing against it and can also hold moisture. Vulvovaginitis is more likely to affect irritated skin than healthy skin. Recovering can be slowed down by irritation.

• Excess steroid abuse can also lead to vulvovaginitis.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Vulvovaginitis?

Depending on the etiology, vulvovaginitis symptoms can differ.

Symptoms may generally include-

• Discomfort in the genital area.

• Strong-smelling vaginal discharge. The type of discharge and odor distinguishes the three causes of vulvovaginitis-

  • Yeast infection discharge is typically white and cottage cheese-like, but it is odorless. Furthermore, yeast infections induce itching.

  • The BV (bacterial vaginosis) discharge is thicker and can be gray or green. Its fishy odor can identify it.

  • Discharge from trichomoniasis may also smell fishy. The discharge has a yellow-green hue and resembles foam in appearance.

• Increased itching, burning sensation, and redness.

• Inflammation around the labia and perineal areas.

• Discomfort during urination.

• Swelling.

• Blisters, bumps, or rashes.

• Dryness in the vagina.

• Painful sexual intercourse.

• Light bleeding or spotting.

How Is Vulvovaginitis Infection Diagnosed?

The doctor will diagnose vulvovaginitis with the help of the following methods-

• After gathering comprehensive medical history and symptom information, the doctor will do a physical examination.

• The doctor will conduct a pelvic examination. To precisely pinpoint the source of inflammation, a wet prep is required. To perform a microscopic analysis, some vaginal discharge is collected.

• Pap smear.

• The doctor can then determine the organism causing the disease, resulting in quicker and more effective treatment.

• Rarely a vulva biopsy may be required to determine the organism. The doctor collects a sample of inflamed tissue for further analysis. Typically, a biopsy is only required when all other treatment options have failed.

What Is the Treatment for Vulvovaginitis?

Depending on the cause, different treatments may be used, including-

• Bacterial Infection - Applying gels and creams to the vulva and vagina as well as taking drugs are all part of treating bacterial vaginosis. Medications like Clindamycin (a cream) and Metronidazole (a tablet or gel) are used only with a prescription given by the doctor.

• Yeast Infection - Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal creams and suppositories, such as Miconazole, can be used to treat yeast infections. Fluconazole is one of the prescription oral antifungal drugs that doctors use to treat yeast infections.

• Trichomoniasis Infection - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), trichomoniasis can be treated and cured with a single dose of either Metronidazole or Tinidazole. All sexual partners must be treated. To prevent reinfection, they should also refrain from sexual activity for at least a week until all signs and symptoms have subsided. Furthermore, if symptoms return, it is crucial to be tested again.

• Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes - Yeast infections and mild instances of BV often go away on their own or with home treatments. It is better to visit a healthcare professional who can provide suitable therapies. Some of the home remedies are as follows:

  • Sitting in a warm, shallow bath that only covers your hip region or sitz bath can help with some vulvovaginitis symptoms. Some bacteria may be killed by adding tea tree oil, a tiny bit of vinegar, or sea salt to the bath.

  • Avoid staying in the tub for an excessive amount of time. After the bath, completely dry the affected area using a towel.

  • Use cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to promote airflow and minimize perspiration in the area. Taking off the underwear before going to bed may also help avoid vulvovaginitis.

  • Do not use bubble baths, scented soaps, douches, or laundry detergent.

  • Applying a cold compress on swollen or sensitive areas may also reduce pain.

  • Use a condom during sexual intercourse.

  • Probiotics - Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria, making it an effective treatment for vulvovaginitis when consumed regularly. Additionally, probiotics in yogurt aid in maintaining pH levels to reduce the growth of harmful vaginal bacteria and yeast.

  • Even if the sexual partners are not exhibiting symptoms, they should undergo treatment for the condition.

Conclusion:

Swelling or inflammation of the vulva and vagina is referred to as vulvovaginitis or vaginitis. Girls and women of all ages may get vaginitis. Treatment for vulvovaginitis depends upon the underlying cause, and some cases may resolve independently. The best defense against non-infectious vulvovaginitis is good hygiene. Infection can also be lowered by wearing comfortable, moisture-absorbing clothing. In addition, most sexually transmitted forms of vulvovaginitis can be avoided by using a condom. Vulvovaginitis can also be prevented by establishing healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet and managing various medical conditions.