Inflammations can affect only the vulva or the vulva and vagina at the same time. Learn how each of these occurs and how to prevent them.
Vulvitis is an inflammation that affects only the vulva . Inflammations that affect the vulva and vagina at the same time are called vulvovaginitis, which is the most prevalent and can be caused by bacteria, fungi, protozoa, or some type of allergy or irritation.
But before we specify the main illnesses, it is necessary to make a quick distinction between the vulva and the vagina, as it is a subject that still causes some confusion.
Vulva and vagina are not the same thing
The vulva is the entire external and visible part, where the mons pubis, the clitoris, the labia minora and the labia majora are located. The vagina is the internal part, through which menstrual blood (never urine) comes out and the canal that gives access to the uterus .
What is vulvitis?
Irritations that affect the vulva but do not affect the vagina are usually caused by the use of cosmetic products, fabric softeners, latex condoms, shaving razors and sanitary pads. These items can cause sensitivity in some women and lead to dermatitis, the main symptoms of which are itching and diaper rash.
The diagnosis is entirely clinical. The doctor makes a general assessment of the area and asks the patient if there is any type of discharge or other symptoms besides redness and itching, as discharge may indicate candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis .
In these cases, it is important to try to identify the causative agent in order to reduce inflammation. In addition, during this period, it is best to sleep without underwear to facilitate ventilation. It is also recommended to wear cotton underwear, as they can absorb sweat. When washing them, use neutral soap instead of washing powder, and let them dry naturally in the sun and not in the shower.
Urinary incontinence can cause problems in the vulva
Involuntary loss of urine, or urinary incontinence , can also cause dermatitis in the vulva. Those who use specific pads for the condition or wear diapers should pay attention to cleaning and moisturizing the skin to prevent the appearance of lesions.
That’s why it’s important to wash the area with warm water and soap after episodes of urinary incontinence and use creams containing calendula or aloe vera to keep the area moisturized. Using alcohol-free, hypoallergenic wipes also helps keep the skin soft and moisturized, which is why they’re recommended. But don’t forget to see a specialist if your symptoms get worse.
Concurrent infections or vulvovaginitis
According to gynecologist Fernanda Mastrocola, infections usually begin in the vagina and then spread to the vulva. The most common of all is candidiasis, caused by the fungus Candida albicans and which affects most women in adulthood.
These fungi take advantage of warm, humid environments to proliferate, so when there is an imbalance in the vaginal flora and the body’s defense system, symptoms appear.
“The main symptom of candidiasis is a whitish discharge, with small lumps, but no odor. In the vulva, there will be a lot of itching, redness and burning. In general, it usually appears before the menstrual period. It is easy to treat, but if there are many repetitive episodes throughout the year, it is important to do a culture test to investigate and never go around taking antifungal medication willy-nilly,” says the gynecologist.
Bacterial vaginosis is also extremely common, and as the name suggests, it is caused by bacteria. The symptoms also begin in the vagina and, in addition to the discharge, the smell is also an important sign that something is not right in the region.
Symptoms also often reach the vulva, causing swelling and redness.
The only STI in the group is trichomoniasis caused by a protozoan, Trichomonas vaginalis , and its main characteristic is a yellowish, yellow-greenish or grayish discharge.
“In women, the disease mainly affects the vulva, vagina and cervix. When not diagnosed or not treated correctly, trichomoniasis facilitates the appearance of the so-called pelvic inflammatory disease ,” warns Fernanda.
To avoid the disease, it is essential to use an internal or external condom .