Complications of vulvitis

Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on January 21, 2025
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For patients with vulvitis, the main complications are the formation of vulvar ulcers or eczema. In chronic inflammation, the skin of the vulva may become thickened, rough, or cracked, and even undergo lichen-like changes. In severe cases, the condition may cause fever and other systemic symptoms, and even lead to enlargement of the inguinal lymph nodes. Furthermore, vulvitis and its pathogens might spread upwards, causing an onset of pelvic inflammatory disease.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What causes vulvitis?

There are many reasons for the occurrence of vulvitis, mainly including recent sexual intercourse, the use of unclean sanitary pads, wearing tight, non-breathable pants, as well as not paying attention to vulvar hygiene, not cleaning the vulva for a long time, etc. It could also be due to direct contact transmission, such as through sexual activity, or contact with contaminated towels, underwear, swimwear, as well as sharing wash basins, bathtubs, toilet seats, or swimming in public pools, among others.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
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Does vulvitis affect pregnancy?

If inflammation of the vulva is found after pregnancy, it generally does not affect the normal pregnancy and the development of the embryo. Vulvar inflammation is often caused by long-term stimulation by excessive vaginal secretions. In such cases, it is necessary to promptly and thoroughly wash and care for the vulvar area, or take sitz baths to alleviate symptoms. It is also important to keep the vulvar area clean and dry, avoid using panty liners, wear cotton underwear, and maintain personal hygiene to reduce the occurrence of vulvar inflammation.

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Written by Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Vulvitis is caused by what?

Vulvitis is one of the most common infectious diseases in gynecology, affecting women of all ages. Since the vulva is adjacent to the urethra, vagina, and anus and the area is moist, it is prone to contamination and thus inflammation. Women of childbearing age, due to more frequent sexual activity and the vagina being a necessary passage for childbirth procedures, are susceptible to injuries and external pathogenic infections. Postmenopausal women and infants, due to low estrogen levels and consequently lower local resistance, are also prone to vulvitis.

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Written by Zhu Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat vulvar ulceration caused by fungal vaginitis?

Candidal vulvovaginitis is caused by Candida albicans. When it occurs, it can cause edema of the vulvar and vaginal mucosa. Gynecological examinations can also reveal hyperemia and edema of the vulva. However, the main symptoms of candidal vulvovaginitis are itching and burning pain. When the itching and burning pain are severe, scratching may occur, and in serious cases, you can see cracked skin, forming some acute erosions and superficial ulcers. When encountering vulvar ulcers, do not panic. You can use traditional Chinese medicine washes for external cleansing, which helps in anti-inflammatory and disinfection. At the same time, use antifungal ointment for external application; after a period, the ulcerated area will gradually improve.

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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.