Vulvitis is simply an inflammation of the vulva, the soft folds of skin outside the vagina. This is not a condition but rather a symptom that results from a host of diseases, infections, injuries, allergies, and other irritants. Diagnosing and treating this condition can be frustrating because it is often difficult to determine the specific cause of the irritation.
Vulvitis may be caused by one, or more, of the following:
Any female with certain allergies, sensitivities, infections, or diseases can develop vulvitis. Girls who have not yet reached puberty and postmenopausal women sometimes develop vulvitis, possibly because of inadequate levels of estrogen.
The following are the most common symptoms for vulvitis. However, each adolescent may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms of vulvitis may include:
The symptoms of vulvitis may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your teen's doctor for a diagnosis.
In addition to a complete medical history and physical and pelvic examination, diagnostic procedures for vulvitis may include the following:
Specific treatment for vulvitis will be determined by your teen's doctor based on:
Treatment may include:
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Online Resources of Adolescent Medicine