Lab 10-Disorder of the female reproductive system: Vulvovaginitis-Alanna DeGroot

What is vulvovaginitis? 

   Vulvovaginitis is when there is an inflammation and/or infection in the vulva and vagina. It is a common infection that can happen to a woman at any age. It is more commonly called vaginitis or vulvitis depending on whether the infection is in the vulva or the vagina. Vulvovaginitis is generally caused by bacteria or yeast and according to the CDC affects 30% of women in the US and is the most common female reproductive issue. 

Causes of vulvovaginitis: 

          Bacteria
               Ex: Gardnarella 
          Viruses
               Ex: Human papilloma virus (HPV)
          Parasites
               Ex: Scabies
          Yeast
               Ex: Candida albicans
          Environmental factors
               Ex: unhygienic practices 
          STI's
               Ex: Trichanomiasis
          Allergic reaction and/or chemical irritant
               Ex: sodium sulfate

 Symptoms of vulvovaginitis: 

         The symptoms a person would experience depends on what the root cause of the vulvovaginitis is. Each cause can have multiple symptoms and it can also vary based on how bad the infection has gotten. The symptoms include the following: 

                    Inflammation

                    Burning- all the time but usually when urinating

                    Itching

                    Abnormal discharge- may be thick, white, yellow

                    Strong odor

Treatments: 

     There are many different way to treat vulvovaginitis. Options include over the counter medications and creams a person could us at home. For more serious cases or depending on the infection a person would need to see a doctor to for antibiotics or stronger creams/ointments. These treatments and remedies should always be used alongside good hygiene practices, wearing loose fitting clothing, and cotton underwear. Try to avoid scented products when cleaning the vaginal area as this could cause irritation, especially avoid if having any sort of infection. 

          OTC Home Remedies: 

               Suppositories 

               Topical ointments/creams

               Tea tree oil 

               Sitz baths

               Coconut oil 

          Prescribed Treatments:

               Antibiotic creams/ointments

               Antifungal creams/ointments

               Antibacterial creams/ointments

               Oral antibiotics

               Antifungal pills taken orally

               Antihistamine

               Estrogen cream

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/vulvovaginitis#outlook 

https://www.dreamstime.com/illustration/vulvovaginitis.html