Can erythromycin ointment be applied for vulvitis?

Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on November 08, 2024
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Only a few types of vulvitis might be effectively treated with erythromycin ointment application, as the treatment depends on the specific pathogen involved in the vulvitis, and not all inflammations use the same medication. First, a vaginal discharge test must be conducted, as some cases are due to yeast infections, and some are due to trichomoniasis, for which erythromycin ointment is ineffective. For instance, treatment for trichomoniasis requires both partners to simultaneously undergo treatment with oral metronidazole, otherwise, even if only the woman is treated, there is a high chance of recurrence. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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How to Treat Nonspecific Vulvitis

When women suffer from nonspecific vulvitis, the first step is to identify the causes of the nonspecific vulvitis and provide symptomatic treatment. For example, some women have diabetes, where an increase in local blood sugar levels can lead to this condition, and diabetes should be actively treated. Afterwards, diluted iodine solutions can be used for sitz bath treatments, which not only have a local antibacterial effect but also a local thermotherapy effect, which can promote the absorption of inflammation. Women can also take broad-spectrum antibiotics orally, or apply ointments containing antibiotics locally for treatment. Additionally, women should pay close attention to their clothing; for example, it is best to wear loose, all-cotton underwear to prevent friction and local skin lesions.

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What medicine should be taken for senile vulvitis?

Senile vulvitis, also known as senile vulvar atrophy, is more common among postmenopausal women. Its main symptoms include thinning and drying of the skin, reduced elasticity and looseness, wrinkling of the epidermis, atrophy of sweat glands, reduced sebaceous gland secretion, and hair loss or sparseness. Generally, the treatment principle involves hormone supplementation to increase the vaginal resistance and the use of antibiotics to inhibit the growth of bacteria.

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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.

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What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

Vulvitis primarily manifests as itching, pain, and a burning sensation in the vulvar skin. After activities, sexual intercourse, urination, and defecation, symptoms can worsen. During the acute inflammatory phase, one might observe that the vulva is congested, swollen, and eroded, often showing scratch marks, and in severe cases, ulcers or eczema may form. In chronic inflammation, examination may reveal thickened, rough, and cracked vulvar skin, which might even undergo lichen-like changes. Vulvitis may be caused by pathogens or by non-infectious factors such as physical or chemical agents leading to inflammation of the vulvar skin or mucous membrane. If the condition is caused by pathogens, active anti-inflammatory treatment is necessary. However, if it is triggered by non-infectious factors, one should actively identify and eliminate the underlying cause and improve local hygiene. For instance, in the case of diabetic patients, it is crucial to treat the condition promptly and control blood sugar levels. If there is fistula formation, such as urinary or fecal fistulas, timely repair should be done to eliminate the cause of the disease, allowing it to naturally heal on its own.

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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.