Vulvitis Health Article

Definition

Vulvitis is inflammation of the external female genitalia (vulva).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Vulvitis can be caused by a number of conditions. These include chronic dermatitis, seborrhea or eczema, and allergies, particularly to soaps, colored toilet paper, vaginal sprays, laundry detergents, bubble bath, or fragrances. It can also be caused by infections such as fungal and bacterial infections, pediculosis, or scabies.

Vulvitis can affect women of all ages. In young girls and postmenopausal women, the condition may be caused by low estrogen levels.

Symptoms

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

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 inspection may reveal vaginal infection such as vulvovaginitis or vaginitis as the source.

Treatment

Discontinue the use of any potential irritants. An over-the-counter cortisone cream may be used two or three times a day on the affected area for up to 1 week. If these measures do not relieve symptoms, see your health care provider.

If discharge from a vaginal infection is the cause of vulvitis, the source of the vaginal infection should be treated. Cortisone cream may be used to decrease vulvar itching.

If treatment of vulvitis does not work, further evaluation may include biopsy of the skin to rule out the potential of vulvar dystrophy (a chronic vulvar skin condition) 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.