Vulvovaginitis is a infection which affects the vagina and its external part, called vulva. Vulvovaginitis is caused mainly by bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis, by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis and the fungus Candida, which may or may not be transmitted sexually.
However, vulvovaginitis also has causes that balance of vaginal flora and thus favor the development of the infection. These include diabetes, use of steroid hormones, trauma, use of lubricants and internal and external absorbents, excessive depilation and rupture of the perineum (region between the genital organ and the anus).
Allergies
Vulvovaginitis can also be triggered by allergies caused by the use of synthetic underwear, tight clothing, fabric softeners, soaps, colored or perfumed toilet paper, condoms, and other irritants.
Pregnancy
After pregnancy, a woman may develop chronic vulvovaginitis due to the vulval's increased sensitivity and low immunity.
Medicines
The use of antibiotic medicines can also kill the bacteria that maintain the balance of the vaginal flora and favor the proliferation of fungi that cause vulvovaginitis.
Stress and menopause
There are also psychological factors that favor the onset of infection, such as stress as well as hormonal factors such as low production of the estrogen hormone after menopause (atopic vulvovaginitis).
Treatment of vulvovaginitis can be done with antifungal ointments applied directly to the site, or oral antibiotics.
The gynecologist is the specialist for diagnosing and treating vulvovaginitis.
Learn more at: Vulvovaginitis: What are the symptoms and how is the treatment?
