Vulvitis Health Article

Definition

Vulvitis is inflammation of the outer female genitalia (vulva). The vulva . It includes the "lips" or folds of skin (labia), clitoris, and the openings to the urethra and vagina.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Vulvitis can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

• Allergies, particularly to soaps, colored toilet paper, vaginal sprays, laundry detergents, bubble baths, or fragrances
• Long-term dermatitis, seborrhea or eczema
• Infections such as fungal and bacterial infections, pediculosis, or scabies

Vulvitis can affect women of all ages. The condition may be due to low estrogen levels in young girls and women who have reached menopause.

Symptoms

The following symptoms affect the skin in the vulva area:

• Burning or itching
• Possible small cracks in the skin
• Possible vaginal discharge
• Redness and swelling
• Thickening of the skin

Signs and tests

A pelvic examination often reveals redness and thickening and may reveal cracks or skin lesions on the vulva.

If there is any vaginal discharge, a wet prep test may show that an infection (such as vulvovaginitis or vaginitis)is the cause.

Treatment

Stopping using any products that may cause irritation. Apply an over-the-counter cortisone ointment two or three times a day on the affected area for up to 1 week. If these methods do not relieve symptoms, see your health care provider.

Vaginal infections will be treated as appropriate. Cortisone ointment may be used to decrease vulvar itching.

If treatment does not work, biopsy of the skin of the vulva may be done to rule out vulvar dystrophy or vulvar dysplasia, a precancerous condition. A biopsy may also be necessary if any skin lesions are present.

Expectations (prognosis)

Itching may be hard to control, but after the cause is identified and treated, it should go away in several weeks.