What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 22, 2024
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When women experience inflammation of the vulva, the clinical symptoms are generally similar. Firstly, we may observe some abnormal secretions in the vulvar area, such as purulent secretions with a foul smell, accompanied by local itching. Furthermore, when the inflammation in the female vulvar area is severe, it can lead to local skin mucosa congestion, edema, and reduced elasticity. This can cause severe pain during walking due to friction, or during intercourse due to mechanical irritation, and may even lead to painful bleeding. Additionally, in some women, the inflammation may be intense enough to form small abscesses locally, meaning small lumps may appear or small white pus spots may be present on the local area.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvar inflammatory swellings heal by themselves?

If the vulva has only developed an inflammatory lump, it can be cured because as the inflammation subsides, the lump may gradually shrink and fall off. However, it is crucial to determine whether a vulvar lump is inflammatory or malignant. Therefore, patients with vulvar lumps may need to have a biopsy of the vulvar tissue sent to the pathology department to determine its origin. For inflammatory lumps, topical application of erythromycin ointment can be used; it can heal on its own. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does vulvitis require antibiotics?

Whether to take anti-inflammatory drugs for vulvitis depends on whether it is combined with vaginal inflammation. Simple vulvitis is generally treated with washing or sitz baths, or topical application of medicine to the vulva, and it is not advisable to take anti-inflammatory drugs recklessly. The misuse of anti-inflammatory drugs can have a significant impact on the body, potentially affecting future overall health. The use of anti-inflammatory drugs must be under the guidance of a doctor. For vulvitis, it is common to first conduct an examination of secretions to rule out vaginal inflammation, and generally, local treatment is sufficient. (Specific medication use should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor; do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Zhou Yan
Geriatrics
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Candidal vulvovaginitis is caused by what?

Streptococcal vulvitis is an inflammation of the vulva caused by streptococci. The primary reasons for this condition are as follows: Firstly, inadequate hygiene; secondly, improper use of antibiotics, such as overuse, long-term use, or use of cleansers; thirdly, transmission through sexual activity, such as when one partner in a couple has a streptococcal vulvitis infection and transmits it to the other; fourthly, a decrease in immune resistance, such as in patients with diabetes or those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer; and fifthly, in patients with injuries to the vulva.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can erythromycin be applied to vulvitis?

Only a minority of vulvitis cases are effectively treated with erythromycin ointment. Most cases of vulvitis are not treated with erythromycin ointment. This is because it is essential to first identify which type of infection is causing the vulvitis. Most cases of vulvitis also involve vaginitis and require initial bacteriological examination to classify the inflammation. Treatment should be selected based on this classification and target the specific type of infection. For instance, if the inflammation is due to trichomoniasis, both partners need to take oral metronidazole. If it is a fungal vaginitis, drugs like clotrimazole should be chosen. (Specific drug use should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Luo Chun Yan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How can women determine if they have vulvitis?

To determine if they have vulvitis, women mainly rely on their own symptoms. Common symptoms of vulvitis include itching around the vulva, stinging pain, significant discomfort when urinating that irritates the skin of the vulva, increased vaginal discharge often accompanied by an unusual odor, and possible swelling and pain of the vulvar skin. If one suspects they have vulvitis, they can generally feel the discomfort themselves. To prevent vulvitis, it is important to maintain cleanliness and dryness of the vulvar area. Regularly changing underwear, wearing loose cotton underwear, and avoiding non-breathable synthetic fabrics are advisable. If there is noticeable itching or pain in the vulva, or if the skin in the area feels damp, it is important to seek medical advice promptly for appropriate treatment.