What causes “vaginitis”? What are the symptoms? How to prevent and treat it?
Vulvitis and vulvitis is an inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina. It is a common condition in women of all ages and has a variety of causes. It may also go by other names, such as vulvitis or vaginitis.
Causes of vaginitis and vulvitis
There are several triggers that can cause vaginal and vulvar infections, with the most common cause being bacterial. Other common causes include:
- Fungi
- virus
- parasite
- Environmental factors
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases
- Exposure to chemical irritants and allergens
bacteria
Certain bacteria can overgrow and cause vaginitis. Overgrowth of this bacteria can lead to bacterial vaginitis, the most สมัคร UFABET วันนี้ รับเครดิตฟรีสำหรับสมาชิกใหม่ common form of vaginitis. Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria can also be present, but they usually do not cause infection. A bacterial infection can cause a grayish-white discharge with a fishy odor.
Fungi
One of the most common causes of vulvitis is Candida albicans. This yeast infection can cause genital itching and a thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese. Some women develop a yeast infection after taking antibiotics, as antibiotics can kill the antifungal bacteria that naturally live in the vagina.
virus
Viruses that can cause vaginitis and vulvitis are usually sexually transmitted viruses. Including herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV).
parasite
Pinworms, scabies, and lice can cause inflammation of the vulva and vagina.
Environmental factors
Poor hygiene and allergens can also contribute to the condition. Tight clothing can rub against the skin, causing irritation and trapping moisture in the area. Irritated skin is more prone to vulvitis than healthy skin. Irritation can also slow down healing.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually Transmitted Diseases Trichomonas vaginitis can cause inflammation of the vagina and vulva. This infection causes genital discomfort, itching, and a heavy vaginal discharge. The discharge may be yellow, green, or gray, and often has a strong odor. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes can also cause vaginitis.
Chemicals
Certain chemicals can cause vulvitis and vaginitis. These chemicals are often found in soaps, feminine sprays, perfumes, and vaginal birth control pills. Chemicals that can cause an allergic reaction include:
- Parabens
- Sodium sulfate
- Triclosan
- Dioxane
If these ingredients are in your soap or detergent, you may need to switch to products labeled “hypoallergenic” or “fragrance-free” to help prevent a recurrence of the infection.
Vaginitis and vulvitis in children
Vaginitis and vulvitis are the most common gynecological condition in prepubertal girls. As puberty approaches, the vagina becomes more acidic and infections usually stop.
Vulvitis in children can be treated with daily bathing, steroids, and low-dose topical antibiotics. It is important to instruct children in proper bathroom hygiene. Wearing loose cotton underwear can help prevent recurrence of the infection.
What are the symptoms of vulvitis and vaginitis?
Symptoms of vulvitis and vaginitis vary depending on the cause. Typically, symptoms may include:
- Irritation of the genital area
- Itching
- Inflammation around the labia and perineum
- Increased vaginal discharge with strong odor
- Feeling uncomfortable while urinating
How is vulvitis and vulvitis diagnosed?
Your doctor will diagnose vulvitis by talking to you about your symptoms and may take a sample of your vaginal discharge for testing.
In most cases, your doctor will need to perform a pelvic exam. A wet prep test may be needed to accurately identify the cause of the inflammation. Which involves collecting vaginal discharge for microscopic examination.
Doctors can then identify the organism causing the condition, leading to faster, more effective treatment.
In rare cases, a biopsy of the vagina may be needed to identify the organism. This means that your doctor will take a small sample of tissue for further testing. A biopsy is usually only needed when traditional treatments have been unsuccessful.
How to treat vaginal and vulvar inflammation
The correct treatment for vaginitis and vulvitis depends on the type of infection and the organism causing the problem. Some vaginitis and vulvitis treatments can be self-medicated. But it is always best to consult your doctor before beginning any self-treatment.
Home remedies
If you’ve had a vaginal yeast infection in the past, you may be able to treat your vulvitis with over-the-counter products, including:
- Vaginal cream
- Vaginal suppositories
- Topical ointment
- Oral tablets
Home remedies
Crushed garlic and coconut oil, which are known for their antibacterial properties, may also help treat this condition.
You may be able to relieve some of the symptoms of vulvitis by sitting in a shallow, warm bath that only covers your buttocks. Adding a little tea tree oil, vinegar, or sea salt to the bath may help kill some of the bacteria if that’s causing your symptoms. Just be careful not to stay in the bath for too long. Pat the affected area dry with a towel after bathing.