Vaginal foreign bodies are objects inserted inside of the vagina, usually with hygienic purposes such as tampons, or, with contraceptive purposes like sponges or vaginal diaphragms. In some occasions, they could also be introduced with sexual purposes.
They are a rare cause of infection of the vagina and vulva, causing recurrent or refractory vulvovaginitis; they account for only 4% of cases in prepubertal girls. The differential diagnosis of recurrent foreign body vulvovaginitis should be made assessing infections, congenital anomalies, trauma, allergic reactions and/or dermatological problems.
It usually manifests with a dark, foul-smelling, purulent vaginal discharge. It may be accompanied by intermittent bleeding, abdominal pain, urinary tract infection and/or genital lesions. Possible complications include ulceration of the vaginal wall with fistula formation and infection.
Diagnosis is clinical, by directed questioning and gynaecological examination, where the presence of the foreign body is evident. It may be necessary to take cultures of the discharge to analyse the germs causing infection.
Treatment is based on removal of the foreign body, vaginal lavage and, on some occasions, antibiotics if an associated infection is suspected.
- Mantas P, Rocha S, Oliveira E, Lopes A. Vulvovaginitis recurrente por cuerpo extraño oculto [Occult foreign body: A rare cause of recurrent vulvovaginitis]. An Pediatr (Engl Ed). 2020 Jan;92(1):55-56. Spanish. doi: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2018.09.015. Epub 2018 Nov 24. PMID: 30482451.
- Merkley K. Vulvovaginitis and vaginal discharge in the pediatric patient. J Emerg Nurs. 2005 Aug;31(4):400-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jen.2005.04.023. PMID: 16126111.
- Chinawa J, Obu H, Uwaezuoke S. Foreign body in vagina: an uncommon cause of vaginitis in children. Ann Med Health Sci Res. 2013 Jan;3(1):102-4. doi: 10.4103/2141-9248.109463. PMID: 23634340; PMCID: PMC3634203.
