Does vulvitis cause an abnormal odor in vaginal discharge?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Vulvitis generally results in abnormal vaginal discharge, primarily characterized by abnormal secretions causing itching and odor in the vulva. Normally, vaginal discharge in women is clear, transparent, odorless, and minimal, which is considered normal. If the discharge has an odor, it most commonly suggests a bacterial infection or a trichomonas infection. In cases of trichomonas infection, the discharge typically has a fishy smell, is watery, and accompanied by itching, leading to vulvitis reactions. At this point, a secretion test at the hospital can be conducted, followed by targeted treatment based on the test results. Furthermore, bacterial vaginitis can also present with odorous discharge. This condition typically involves yellow, thick, abundant discharge, and vulval itching. Treatment can then be tailored based on examination results, selecting appropriate topical medications. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

Other Voices

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does vulvar eczema belong to vulvitis?

Vulvar eczema and vulvitis are not the same disease; they are different from each other. Vulvar eczema is mainly caused by contact with allergens, such as dampness in the genital area, or new underwear and sanitary napkins, leading to itching and rashes on the vulva. It is an allergic reaction, and the treatment is primarily focused on anti-allergy therapy. On the other hand, vulvitis is caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. The local symptoms of vulvitis can be similar to those of vulvar eczema, but the treatment mainly focuses on anti-infection therapy.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can you eat seafood with vulvitis?

There are many causes of vulvitis. One cause is an increase in vaginal discharge due to vaginitis or cervicitis, which stimulates the vulvar tissue leading to vulvitis. Another cause is related to allergic constitution, manifesting as itching, swelling, and other inflammatory symptoms of the vulva. If the vulvitis is due to an allergy, it is advised not to consume seafood, as it may aggravate the condition. Therefore, it's important to seek timely medical attention at a hospital if vulvitis occurs. This includes routine examination of secretions and endoscopic examination of the vagina. Treatment should be promptly administered based on the examination results. Additionally, individuals with low immunity might display white lesions on the vulva, which could also be a sign of vulvitis. Regular cleansing of the vulva, avoiding cold and fatigue, and enhancing the immune system are recommended.

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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 Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

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 Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvitis heal itself?

Generally, vulvitis cannot be cured. Vulvitis is a common gynecological condition. Following vaginitis, symptoms include vulva swelling, pain, erosion, and itching, causing significant discomfort to the female body and potentially leading to other types of complications. Vulvitis is caused by infections of bacteria or viruses and requires medical treatment and care, usually not healing on its own. The treatment principle should focus on treating the primary disease, keeping the vulva clean and dry, and avoiding harmful irritations. Women with vulvitis are advised to wash the vulva daily with clean water to ensure cleanliness, wear loose cotton underwear, change and clean them regularly, and use appropriate medication for anti-inflammatory treatment.