What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Vaginitis-Gardnerella Vaginalis
• Vaginitis-Haemophilus Vaginalis

What is Vulvovaginitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation or infection that affects the external parts of the female genital organs (called vulva) and the canal from the uterus to the external opening (called the vagina). The condition can affect females of all age groups
• The common types of Vulvovaginitis include:
  • Genital candidiasis or yeast infection
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Non-specific vaginitis
  • Bacterial vaginitis (Haemophilus vaginalis vaginitis or Gardnerella vaginalis vaginitis)
• There are many risk factors that can increase one’s chances of getting Vulvovaginitis, including infection by bacteria, virus, or yeast, exposure to certain chemicals in soap, and lack of estrogen hormone. The causes of Vulvovaginitis may range from the use of vaginal contraceptives to sexual abuse
• Vaginal discharge and irritation in the vaginal area are commonly observed in Vulvovaginitis. A primary healthcare provider can diagnose Vulvovaginitis through a series of exams, which can include pelvic exams and culture of the vaginal discharge
• The treatments for Vulvovaginitis depends on the cause of the infection. If the infection is diagnosed and treated quickly, the prognosis of Vulvovaginitis is good. Practicing good genital hygiene is an easy measure to prevent the condition 

Who gets Vulvovaginitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Females of all ages may be affected i.e., Vulvovaginitis is noted in both girls and women
• Young females before the onset of puberty are most affected by non-specific Vulvovaginitis.
• There is no racial or ethnic group predisposition observed, and the infection is noted worldwide

What are the Risk Factors for Vulvovaginitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The following are the risk factors that may increase the incidence of Vulvovaginitis:

• Frequent use of antibiotics
• Vaginal contraceptives
• Non-absorbent and tight fitting clothes
• Lack of estrogen
• Frequent use tampons
• Poor genital hygiene
• Sexual abuse

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Vulvovaginitis? (Etiology)

The following are some of the causes of Vulvovaginitis:

• Infection by bacteria, virus, yeast, and other parasites
• Sexually-transmitted infections
• Exposure to chemicals found in bubble baths, soaps, feminine sprays and perfumes
• Candida albicans (yeast) infection
• Constant use of antibiotics
• Trichomonas vaginalis infection
• Overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina
• Use of vaginal contraceptives
• Use of non-absorbent and tight fitting clothes
• Poor genital hygiene

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Vulvovaginitis?

The following are the common signs and symptoms of Vulvovaginitis:

• Irritation in the vaginal area
• Itchy sensation in the vaginal area
• Vaginal discharge
• Bad vaginal odor
• Discomfort while urinating
• Burning sensation while urinating

How is Vulvovaginitis Diagnosed?

The following tests and procedures may be done by a primary healthcare provider to diagnose Vulvovaginitis:

• Complete physical exam and evaluation of medical history
• Pelvic examination, which may reveal red and tender areas in the vagina and vulva
• Wet prep test, where the vaginal discharge is tested under the microscope to check for vaginal infection and an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria
• Culture of the vaginal discharge is performed to detect the organism that caused the infection
• A biopsy of the irritated area of the vagina may be undertaken, when no signs of infection are seen

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Vulvovaginitis?

The common complications which Vulvovaginitis may lead to include:

• Discomfort and emotional stress
• Skin and secondary bacterial infection that may occur due to scratching
• Recurrence of the condition

How is Vulvovaginitis Treated?

A treatment of Vulvovaginitis depends upon the organism that caused the condition. The treatment measures may include:

• Oral antibiotic therapy
• Use of antifungal or antibacterial creams
• Use of cortisone cream
• Antihistamine is prescribed if the infection had been caused by an allergic reaction
• Use of estrogen cream is recommended if the infection had been caused by low levels of estrogen
• Proper cleansing of the genital area is very important
• Sitz baths may be effective
• Enough air must be allowed to reach the genital area that may be done by:
  • Wearing cotton underwear
  • Avoiding wearing pantyhose
  • Wearing loose-fitting clothes
  • Underwear should be avoided during bedtime, where possible
• If the infection has occurred due to sexually transmitted diseases, then both (all) partners involved should undergo treatment

How can Vulvovaginitis be Prevented?

The following preventive measures may help in reducing the risk of Vulvovaginitis:

• Using a condom during sexual intercourse can help prevent the spread of infection
• Clothes which are correctly fitting and made of well-absorbent material should be used
• Good hygiene of the genital area should be maintained
• Children should learn how to clean the genital area while taking bath
• Proper wiping after using the toilet will help prevent the risk of Vulvovaginitis
• Females should always wipe from the front to the back so that infection does not spread to the vagina
• Washing hands with soap and water frequently and particularly after using the toilet should be strictly adhered to

What is the Prognosis of Vulvovaginitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

A correct diagnosis and early adequate treatment can help cure Vulvovaginitis completely. The prognosis is generally excellent in a vast majority of cases.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Vulvovaginitis:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/sexual-health/