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What is vulvitis?

Vulvitis is an inflammation of the vulva. This is the soft folds of skin outside the vagina. It’s a symptom that can result from an array of diseases. This can include infections, injuries, allergies, or irritants. Because it can be challenging to find the exact cause, diagnosing and treating this condition can be difficult.

What causes vulvitis?

Vulvitis may be caused by one or more of the following:

            Toilet paper with perfume or dye

            Soaps or bubble baths with perfume

            Shampoos and hair conditioners

            Laundry detergents

            Vaginal sprays, deodorants, and powders

            Spermicides

            Douching

            Hot tub and swimming pool water

            Underwear made of synthetic material without a cotton crotch

            Rubbing against a bike seat

            Wearing a wet bathing suit for a long period

            Riding a horse

            Infections such as pubic lice or mites (scabies)

Who is at risk for vulvitis?

Any woman with certain allergies, sensitivities, infections, or diseases can develop vulvitis. Women may develop it before puberty and after menopause. This may be due to a drop in estrogen.

What are the symptoms of vulvitis?

Each person may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

            Redness and swelling on the labia and other parts of the vulva

            Intense itching

            Clear, fluid-filled blisters

            Sore, scaly, thick, or white patches on the vulva

The symptoms of vulvitis may look like other conditions or medical problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is vulvitis diagnosed?

Along with a complete medical history and physical and pelvic exam, other tests may include:

            Blood tests

            Urine tests

            Tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

            Pap test. This test involves microscopic exam of cells collected from the cervix. It’s used to detect changes that may be cancer or may lead to cancer. It also shows other conditions, such as infection or inflammation.

How is vulvitis treated?

Specific treatment for vulvitis will be discussed with your healthcare provider based on:

            Your age, overall health, and medical history

            Cause of the disease

            Type and severity of the symptoms

            Your tolerance for specific medicines, procedures, or therapies

            Expectations for the course of the disease

            Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

            Self-help measures (for example, avoiding irritants)

            Sitz baths with soothing compounds (to help control the itching)

            Cortisone creams

            Estrogen cream

Key points

Vulvitis is inflammation of the vulva. It is not a condition, but a symptom with many possible causes. Any woman with certain allergies, sensitivities, infections, or diseases can develop it.

            Symptoms may include:

            Redness and swelling on the labia and other parts of the vulva

            Intense itching

            Clear, fluid-filled blisters

            Sore, scaly, thick, or white patches on the vulva

            Treatment may include:

            Self-help measures

            Sitz baths with soothing compounds

            Cortisone creams

            Estrogen cream

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

            Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.

            Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.

            Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.

            At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you.

            Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.

            Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.

            Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.

            Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.

            If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.

        Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions.