Vulvovaginitis

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Female perineal anatomy

Vaginitis; Vaginal inflammation; Inflammation of the vagina

• Irritation and itching of the genital area
• Inflammation (irritation, redness, and swelling) of the labia majora, labia minora, or perineal area
• Vaginal discharge
• Foul vaginal odor
• Discomfort or burning when urinating

A pelvic examination may reveal red, tender vulvar or vaginal skin. Any lesions or sores should be inspected. A wet prep (microscopic evaluation of vaginal discharge) is usually done to identify a vaginal infection or overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. In some cases, a culture of the vaginal discharge may identify the organism causing the infection.

Trying to diagnose the condition by symptoms alone is very inaccurate in determining the cause of vulvovaginitis. Furthermore, self-diagnosis and treatment with over-the-counter medications (such as yeast infection creams) is unwise and may lead to incorrect and ineffective use of these products. For this reason, vulvovaginitis should be diagnosed by a health care provider.

Review Date: 09/19/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.