The Facts on Vulvitis: What, Who and How

What is Vulvitis?

Vulvitis is the inflammation of the vulva or the soft folds of skin on the external female genitalia. It is not a condition or a disease, which is a common misconception; it is a symptom that results from various causes such as an infection, allergic reaction, injuries, and other irritants.

Who can get Vulvitis?

Women of any age can be affected by vulvitis. Young girls who have not yet reached puberty are at possible risk due to inadequate hormone levels, and post-menopausal women may be at higher risk because of lower estrogen levels and thinner vulvar tissues.

Susceptibility of the vulva to irritation is due to its moist nature. Stress, and poor hygiene and nutrition, can increase susceptibility to vulvitis.

What can cause Vulvitis?

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

• Use of dyed or scented toilet paper
• Allergic reaction to bubble bath or soap used to clean the genital area
• Use of vaginal sprays or douches
• Irritation by chlorinated swimming pool or hot tub water
• Allergic reaction to spermicide
• Allergic reaction to sanitary napkins
• Wearing synthetic underwear or nylon pantyhose without a breathable cotton crotch
• Wearing a wet bathing suit for extended periods of time
• Bike or horseback riding
• Fungal or bacterial infections including scabies or pubic lice
• Herpes
• Skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis

What are the symptoms of Vulvitis?

• Extreme and constant itching
• Redness and/or burning sensation in the vulvar area
• Vaginal discharge
• Small cracks or blisters on the skin of the vulva
• Redness and swelling on the vulva and labia
• Soreness
• Scaly appearance
• Thick or whitish patches

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is best to consult your healthcare provider immediately, as these symptoms may also suggest other genital diseases or disorders.

How is Vulvitis treated?

The first step is intervention: immediately stop using any product that may be causing the irritation. Wear loose-fitting garments and breathable cotton undergarments. Doctors may also prescribe cortisone treatment to reduce irritation and itching.

How to prevent Vulvitis?

• Use only gentle and unscented cleaning products on the genital area. Avoid vaginal douches and other fragranced feminine products.
• Thoroughly dry the genitals after bathing.
• Wear breathable, loose-fitting cotton undergarments. Cottonique makes 100% organic cotton underwear without latex, spandex or elastane, and our Nothing But Cotton range is made without elastic or dye of any kind.
• Immediately change into dry clothing after swimming and exercising.

Choosing underwear if you are prone to irritation

Fabric is one variable among several, but it is one you control. Three of ours may help:

What is a gusset, and why your underwear needs one — the panel in constant contact with the most sensitive skin, and how to check what it is made of.
How to choose thong underwear for sensitive skin — including an honest look at the concerns people raise about the cut.
Why is my underwear making me itch? — working out which part of the garment is the cause.

Source: Cleveland Clinic — Vulvitis

DISCLAIMER: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Vulvar itching, pain, discharge or visible skin changes should always be assessed by a doctor — several of the possible causes listed above require medical treatment that clothing cannot provide.