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WHAT IS VULVOVAGINITIS?

Vulvovaginitis is inflammation of the vulva and the vagina. The vulva is the external genitals of the female. The vagina is an opening in the female's body that is part of the reproductive system.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF VULVOVAGINITIS?

Signs and symptoms of vulvovaginitis include redness, soreness, and itchiness of the vulva and vagina. Discharge from the vagina also occurs in some cases. Discharge is something that is released or leaves the body as waste.

WHAT AGE DOES VULVOVAGINITIS OCCUR?

Vulvovaginitis can occur at any age.

WHAT CAUSES VULVOVAGINITIS?

Vulvovaginitis is often caused by some type of infection. Examples of infectious causes of vulvovaginitis are yeast and pinworm infections. Pinworms are small, white worms that live in the intestines. Pinworms are common in children. Another common cause of vulvovaginitis in children is bedwetting. Skin allergies can also cause vulvovaginitis. Some common allergies that can cause vulvovaginitis include wool, nylon, and certain laundry detergents. Lastly, repeated sexual intercourse over short time periods can also cause vulvovaginitis.

HOW IS VULVOVAGINITIS DIAGNOSED?

After a physical examination, the doctor can often make a diagnosis of vulvovaginitis after examining a sample of vaginal discharge under the microscope.

HOW IS VULVOVAGINITIS TREATED?

Treatment of vulvovaginitis can take many forms including soothing baths, improved hygiene, and creams that can be rubbed on the vagina that fight infections. Doctors often recommend that women with recurrent vulvovaginitis avoid irritating chemicals (such as those found in certain laundry detergents) and to use tampons for at least a few months.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF THE TERM, VULVOVAGINITIS?

Vulvoaginitis comes from the Latin word "vulva" meaning "a covering", the Latin word "vagina" meaning "sheath" (referring to a covering), and the Greek word "itis" meaning "inflammation." Put the two words together and you have "inflammation (of the) covering (of a) sheath," referring to the vagina.