Vulvovaginitis
Vulvovaginitis refers to inflammation and / or swelling in and around the vagina, vulva and the surrounding skin of the genital area. This may be caused by infection, microbial imbalances oestrogen status or irritation by an external cause. It is a common problem that affects women of all ages.
General symptoms include:
- Itching
- Redness
- Soreness around genital area
- Vaginal discharge (which may or, may not smell)
- Pain or discomfort while passing urine
Microbially associated causes of vulvovaginitis include:
- Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC)
- Yeast infection
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
- Aerobic Vaginitis (AV)
- Trichomoniasis infection
Low oestrogen levels can cause the skin of the intimate areas to become thin and dry. This can lead to inflammation and discomfort of the vulval and vaginal tissues. This condition tends to impact women during and post-menopause, and is called the Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).
Chemicals can cause irritation of these sensitive tissues, including:
- Spermicides in condoms
- Feminine sprays and perfumes
- Bubble baths and soaps
- Body lotions
Tight fitting clothes and other skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis may cause irritation of the intimate tissues too. Sometimes, the exact cause cannot be found. This is called nonspecific vulvovaginitis.
We recommend seeing a doctor with any of these symptoms, in order to get the right diagnosis and treatment. An examination is likely, and will help the doctor find the root cause of presenting symptoms. Often relief can be found once the cause of vulvovaginitis is identified.
