It is characterised by inflammation of the vulva and/or vagina with the onset of vaginal discharge.
It is a common gynaecological problem in prepubertal girls between the ages of 9 and 15, with a second peak between the ages of 20 and 40.
Factors that may predispose to the condition include poor hygiene of the vulva or perianal area, tight clothing, chemical irritants (soaps) and use of antibiotics.
Symptoms include the presence of white or yellowish-green vaginal discharge, sometimes foul-smelling (fishy smell), redness or swelling of the vulva and/or vaginal itching, or burning during urination and/or itching of the vulva.
The diagnosis is made by clinical questioning and physical examination of the patient.
Treatment consists of vulvar washes or decongestant soaks with thyme or chamomile tea and, if deemed appropriate by the doctor, topical treatments with antifungal/antibiotic and/or anti-inflammatory creams depending on the suspected type of infection. Exceptionally, if the vulvovaginitis is very severe, treatment with antifungal/oral antibiotics may be required.
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- Zuckerman A, Romano M. Clinical Recommendation: Vulvovaginitis.J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2016 Dec;29(6):673-679.
- Goje O, Munoz JL. Vulvovaginitis: Find the cause to treat it.Cleve Clin J Med. 2017 Mar;84(3):215-224.
- Vilano SE, Robbins CL. Common prepuberal vulvar conditions.Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2016 Oct;28(5):359-65.
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