Although vulvovaginitis is the number one cause of vaginal symptoms, not many people know what this condition refers to. If you are one of these people looking for answers to questions such as “how to treat vaginitis”, “what are the symptoms of vaginitis?” and more, keep reading. You will learn about the different causes, symptoms, and possible treatment methods for this common and very unpleasant condition.
Above all, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional for expert guidance. For the best results, consider vulvitis treatment in South Miami, Florida.
So, what is vulvovaginitis, and what causes it in the first place? Keep scrolling to find out.
What is Vulvovaginitis?
Vulvovaginitis is the infection or inflammation of the vagina or the vulva. This common condition can affect girls and women equally, regardless of age. Sometimes, this condition is also referred to as vaginitis or vulvitis.
According to the statistics, about 30 percent of women in the US have bacterial vulvovaginitis at any point in life. Overall, vulvovaginitis is the number one cause of unpleasant vaginal symptoms such as itching and odor. Based on a CDC fact sheet from 2017, the second most common vaginal infection is a yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis.
If you have any questions or concerns concerning vulvovaginitis, contact professionals at Obstetrics and Gynecology in South Miami, Florida.
The Most Common Causes of Vulvovaginitis
Many things can cause an infection in the vulvar areas and the vagina. One of the most common causes is bacteria. However, there are plenty of other vaginitis causes, including:
- Parasites
- Viruses
- Yeast
- Sexually transmitted infections or STIs
- Environmental factors
- Exposure to allergens or chemical irritants
In the sections below, you will uncover the details about the different vaginitis causes and how they differ from each other. Again, if you are or have been exposed to any of the mentioned causes, seek out the help of a professional. Only a trained medical expert can help you identify the exact vaginitis causes and get your health back on track.
Parasites
Lice, scabies, and pinworms can cause severe inflammation of the vagina and the vulva. One of the most common sexually transmitted infections is trichomoniasis, and it is caused by a tiny parasite called the Trichomonas vaginalis. This microscopic organism spreads during sexual intercourse with an infected individual. In female patients, trichomoniasis causes unpleasant symptoms and increases the risk of other STIs.
Viruses
One of the most widespread vaginitis causes is viruses such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes. These viruses can cause different unpleasant signs and symptoms, and they are usually sexually transmitted. When it comes to herpes, the main symptom is pain in the genital area with sores and lesions. HPV, on the other hand, is associated with warts, but this is not always the case. The leading cause of cervical cancer in female patients is HPV.
Yeast
You may be experiencing vulvitis symptoms due to Candida albicans. Namely, this yeast infection can lead to disturbing genital itching and a white and thick vaginal discharge. Typically, the discharge looks like cottage cheese, and it has a strong, unpleasant odor.
Some female patients may get a yeast infection due to antibiotic use. The reason for this is that antibiotics can get rid of antifungal bacteria naturally living in the vagina.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
The number one way to learn how to treat vaginitis is to prevent it in the first place. We recommend using a condom during sexual intercourse. If you have unprotected sex, you are at high risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection. In fact, trichomonas vaginitis can cause vulvovaginitis. As a result, patients experience heavy discharge, itching, and overall genital discomfort. Some diseases that can cause vaginitis include herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
Environmental Factors
Some women experience vulvitis symptoms due to environmental factors such as allergens or poor personal hygiene. For instance, wearing tight clothing that rubs against the skin and does not let the skin breathe can trap moisture. When the skin is irritated, the chances of getting vulvitis symptoms are higher. Moreover, skin irritation can delay the recovery process.
Exposure to Allergens or Chemical Irritants
Different chemicals can lead to vulvovaginitis. For instance, you can find potentially harmful chemicals in feminine sprays, soaps, vaginal contraceptives, and perfumes. The substances that you should stay away from include:
- Triclosan
- Dioxane
- Parabens
- Sodium sulfate
Make sure to avoid these ingredients in your laundry detergent and soap. To stay safe, we recommend switching to a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic brand. This step will help prevent unwanted signs and symptoms of infection in the future.
Children and Vulvovaginitis
Children can also display vulvitis symptoms. In fact, the most common gynecological problem in girls of prepubescent age is vulvovaginitis. According to experts, this happens due to low estrogen levels in the body. The vagina becomes more acidic when girls reach puberty, and the infections typically stop.
If your child has vulvitis symptoms, reach out to a doctor. This condition can be treated with low-dose topical antibiotics, steroids, or daily bathing. Make sure to talk to your child about bathroom hygiene. Also, ensure your child wears loose-fitting cotton underwear that is breathable.
What are the Most Common Symptoms of Vulvovaginitis?
There are many ways to know whether you have vulvovaginitis or not. If you feel concerned, your first step is to schedule an appointment with your doctor. The medical professional will ask about your symptoms. Here are some of the most common vulvitis symptoms to look out for:
- Itching
- Irritation of the genital area
- Feeling discomfort during urination
- Strong-smelling and increased vaginal discharge
- Inflammation in the perineal areas and around the labia
How Do You Diagnose Vulvovaginitis?
Now that you are more aware of the vulvitis symptoms, you will want to get an expert diagnosis. As mentioned, the doctor will ask you about your symptoms, and you will probably be asked for a vaginal discharge sample for testing.
Usually, the doctor will perform a pelvic exam. By doing this, the medical expert will identify the organism that is causing the vulvitis symptoms. Rarely a biopsy of the vulva might be needed.
How Do You Treat Vulvovaginitis?
You have a few options when it comes to vaginitis treatment. Depending on the infection type and the organism that is causing the infection, you may need to opt for a different approach. Although a doctor can give you recommendations for the best vaginitis treatment, you may also attempt to treat the condition on your own. However, home remedies are not always effective, and you should always speak to your doctor before trying any of the following home remedies.
That said, here are some popular vaginitis treatment options that you can do at home. Home remedies include:
- Using coconut oil
- Consuming more garlic
- Sitting in a sitz bath
- Adding a trace of vinegar or tea tree oil to your bath
- Suppositories
- Vaginal creams
- Topical ointments
Always be careful when learning how to treat vaginitis, especially from your home. For instance, never put garlic into your vagina, and do not sit in a sitz bath for too long. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor.
If you want to choose a safer route, we recommend vaginitis treatment that involves prescribed medications. Your doctor will identify the organism type causing the complications, and you will get medication. Some common medications for treating vulvitis symptoms include:
- Oral antifungal pills
- Estrogen creams
- Oral antibiotics
- Antifungal creams
- Antibacterial creams
Most importantly, before ever needing treatment, it is crucial you practice proper sexual health. Make sure you or your partner do not have an STI by getting tested regularly. Also, use a condom when having sex, as it protects you from unwanted STIs.
Give Us a Call Today
Are you ready to get rid of gynecological problems forever? Reach out to us today to get started.