In the sensitive female genital area, despite intensive personal hygiene, inflammatory processes can manifest themselves, within which vulvitis has a primary importance. Vulvitis must be treated promptly due to its agonizing and unpleasant course.
What is vulvitis?
Vulvitis is a clinical picture, which is characterized by inflammation. Behind the word part vulva hide the external female genitals, the labia. The suffix -itis indicates an inflammatory process, which is represented by the typical signs of inflammation. Vulvitis refers exclusively to the external areas of the genitals, but can also spread to the internal genital organs in the event of an unfavorable course and in the absence of therapy. In vulvitis, this often happens because the germs that cause inflammation and are therefore infectious are carried over. In vulvitis, there are primary and secondary forms of progression.
Causes
Due to the different causes of vulvitis, they are divided into the triggers of primary and secondary vulvitis. Usually, the main cause of vulvitis is an infection of the vulval area, which can be caused by bacteria such as gonococci, staphylococci or streptococci (cocci are always round), viruses or by a fungus such as Candida albicans. Another causality between vulvitis is to the so-called parasites in the form of trichomonads. In addition, pre-existing diseases such as diabetes or leukemia, pathological disorders of the liver or skin can also contribute to vulvitis. Vulvitis can also be caused by a lack of hygiene of the female genital organs. In addition, improper hygiene during washing also carries germs towards the vulva. These can come from the urethra or from the anal area.
Symptoms, complaints and signs
Because a woman’s external genital organs tend to become inflamed during vulvitis, those affected feel a burning or itching sensation in the intimate area. The vulva area is particularly sensitive to stimuli. Therefore, painful discomfort occurs even when walking or sitting. In some cases, swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin area is also noticeable. Fever is rare with this infection. However, fever is not uncommon if there was an initial infection caused by herpes viruses. The inflammation can also spread further if left untreated. If the urethra and bladder are affected, there is pain and burning during urination. Infectious vulvitis can lead to vaginitis. This is manifested by increased discharge, which appears altered in color, odor, and consistency. If the bladder is weakened, urine is discharged involuntarily when walking, coughing or sneezing. The resulting warm, moist environment in the intimate area makes it easy for bacteria to penetrate. People suffering from diabetes have a high sugar concentration in their urine. This also promotes fungal growth. Vulvitis also causes discomfort during sexual intercourse. Not infrequently, there is an increased sensation of wetness and light bleeding.
Diagnosis and course
Vulvitis is usually quickly noticed by affected women because clear signs of inflammation appear. Due to sweating or mechanical injuries of the vulva, the symptoms of vulvitis can increase extremely in the further course. Typical of vulvitis are reddening of the female genital area, painful complaints such as a burning sensation and itching, as well as more or less severe swelling. In addition, the pain of vulvitis is intensified by urination. Wearing underwear and having sexual intercourse also intensify the painful manifestations in vulvitis. In many women, vulvitis even causes an increase in the size of the lymph nodes. When diagnosing vulvitis, both the symptoms and a visual examination are useful, as well as laboratory examination of a swab for microorganisms.
Complications
Vulvitis can involve a number of complications as it progresses. Affected women primarily experience excruciating itching. This has a negative effect on well-being and quality of life and often also causes secondary complaints such as bleeding or redness as a result of scratching.The typical burning sensation when urinating can cause avoidance behavior, which often leads to kidney complaints. In many women, vulvitis leads to an increase in the size of the lymph nodes, which in turn can lead to fever and other complaints. The most common complication of vulvitis, however, is infection of the partner. This can lead to a renewed vaginal infection and spread of the disease. In the worst case, the inflammation rises through the cervix into the uterus or the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Infection of these organs can lead to infertility. Vulvitis therapy is usually free of complications. However, problems can occur if the patient is sensitive to the prescribed antibiotics and antiseptics. Home remedies can cause serious health problems if they are used without consulting the doctor. Then there may be an increase in symptoms, often associated with painful redness and the development of pustules.
When should you go to the doctor?
Vulvitis can occur naturally only in people the female sex. Therefore, girls or women belong to the risk group of the disease. If abnormalities and peculiarities of the external female sex occur, a visit to the doctor should be sought for clarification of the cause and diagnosis. If there is pain, a burning sensation in the vaginal area, or itching, consultation with a physician is advised. If there are changes in libido, disturbances in the sexual act or problems with the partnership due to the symptoms that have occurred, a visit to the doctor is necessary. Swelling, changes in the appearance of the skin as well as discomfort when wearing underwear indicate a disease. To avoid further complications, a doctor should be consulted. If existing symptoms or their intensity increase, the affected person needs medical care. The formation of lumps and pustules, a slightly elevated body temperature, disturbances during urination and a discharge from the vaginal area indicate health problems. Medical tests are necessary to find the triggers of the symptoms. Irregularities in menstrual bleeding and pain in the kidney area should be discussed with a doctor as soon as possible. To avoid infection, refrain from performing the sexual act until a definite diagnosis is made. Sudden bleeding and an inner restlessness are other warning signals of the organism that should be heeded.
Treatment and therapy
Various concepts are available for the treatment of vulvitis, but these must be carried out regularly in the practice until the symptoms subside. If the collection of medical history shows that vulvitis has arisen due to another underlying disease, treatment of this health impairment is sought first. Depending on whether the vulvitis is already affecting the entire vagina and cervix and is possibly characterized by a yellowish discharge, various medications are used. Whether it is infectious pathogens that respond to antibiotics is decided only after the microbiological assessment of the smear. In addition to antibiotics, antiparasitic or fungicidal drugs may be administered depending on the pathogen causing vulvitis. In certain cases of vulvitis, the use of antiseptics or creams containing female hormones (estrogens) is also relevant. Cortisone-containing ointments and sitz baths with herbal additives such as chamomile help against itching in vulvitis.
Prevention
Although individual underlying diseases also promote vulvitis, maintaining proper hygiene is an essential factor in preventing vulvitis. Not only young women, but especially older people with dementia or physical limitations should receive support in this regard to avoid vulvitis. As part of educational talks, it is also important as a prophylaxis against vulvitis to point out the relevant connections to young girls. Wearing clean underwear and avoiding the spread of germs by not sharing towels and washing utensils also help to prevent vulvitis.
Aftercare
If vulvitis has taken place and it has been diagnosed by a gynecologist, there are several things that can be done in the aftercare after the successful treatment. First and foremost are certain hygiene measures, especially for those women who suffer from vulvitis or vulvovaginitis more frequently. In the aftercare, as well as in the prevention, it is very important to follow a gentle, consistent and regular intimate care and cleaning. Generally, it is enough to use clear water for intimate care or special intimate washing lotions, which are available in pharmacies or in various drugstores. However, intimate hygiene should not be overdone, otherwise the vaginal environment can be disturbed. Underwear should also be changed regularly, i.e. daily, and preferably washed at 90 degrees in the washing machine. Underwear made of cotton is recommended, as this material is very skin-friendly and well tolerated, especially by sensitive skin. Since bacteria and germs prefer it warm and moist, you should make sure that the intimate area is not only cared for, but also kept as dry as possible. Panty liners and tampons should be used correctly and changed regularly. Nutrition also plays an important role, as a healthy diet with enough vitamins and fiber, as well as an active lifestyle strengthens the immune system and helps to stay healthy.
Here’s what you can do yourself
If you have vulvitis, the first thing you should do is maintain good intimate hygiene. Regular and careful care of the inflamed region is important. The gynecologist can prescribe suitable preparations with which the inflammation can be contained. In consultation with the doctor, various remedies from natural medicine can be tested. Treatment by means of an adapted diet is also important. During the acute inflammation, a lot of water should be drunk. Irritating foods that could stress the mucosal environment should be avoided. Instead, foods and drinks rich in vitamins and minerals are recommended. Proven remedies include calendula ointment or a special ointment for the intimate area from the pharmacy. In addition, the cause of vulvitis must be determined. The intimate area can be gently cooled or warmed. Because sitting during vulvitis can be painful, it is best to use a special seat cushion. The doctor can recommend suitable aids from specialist shops. If the discomfort does not subside with these measures, the gynecologist must be consulted again. In case of fever or other signs of severe inflammation, it is best to consult the doctor immediately.
