Vulvitis

Treatment:

Self-care options may be initiated if no vaginal discharge is present. These include discontinuing the use of any potential irritants, and following the recommendations given in the "Prevention" section. An over-the-counter topical cortisone cream (Corticosteroids - topical - low potency) may be used 2 or 3 times a day on the affected area for up to 1 week. If these measures do not alleviate symptoms, a primary health care provider should be seen.

If discharge from a vaginal infection is the cause of vulvitis, the source of the vaginal infection should be treated and concurrent topical cortisone cream may be used to decrease vulvar itching.

Note:If the infection is transmitted sexually, it is very important that your partner(s) receive treatment also, even if there are no symptoms. Many organisms can harbor themselves without producing symptoms. Failure of the partner(s) to accept treatment can cause continual reinfection which may eventually (if not taken care of) lead to more extensive problems, possibly limiting future reproductivity and effecting overall health.

If treatment of vulvitis is not very effective, further evaluation may include biopsy of the skin to rule out the potential of vulvar dystrophy, a precancerous condition.

Expectations (prognosis):

The scratch-and-itch cycle of vulvitis may be difficult to halt, but with adequate identification of the causative factors, it can usually be alleviated over several weeks.

Complications:

Itching of the vulva may be a sign of genital warts (HPV - Human Papilloma Virus), vulvar dystrophy, or other potential precancerous conditions.

Infection, when not treated, may eventually lead to more extensive problems, possibly causing reduced reproductive ability, total sterility, or problems with general health.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms occur and do not respond to self care measures, or if vaginal discharge accompanies the symptoms. Also call if skin lesions are noted on the vulva.