Vulvovaginitis Treatment Near Richmond, VA

Get effective care for vulvovaginitis now.

What is Vulvovaginitis?

Vulvovaginitis is a general term for conditions that lead to irritation and inflammation of the vulva and vagina. It can occur at any age and is often caused by an infection, allergic reaction, or irritation from products or clothing.

This condition may result in discomfort, itching, and changes in vaginal discharge. While it is typically not serious, it can be uncomfortable and bothersome without appropriate care. Your healthcare provider can help determine the cause and suggest the most effective treatment.

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What is the Treatment for Vulvovaginitis?

Managing vulvovaginitis depends on identifying the cause of the irritation. If an infection is detected, your provider may recommend medications such as antibiotics or antifungal treatments. In other cases, avoiding irritants like scented products or tight clothing can help ease symptoms.

For persistent or severe cases, your provider will develop a plan to reduce discomfort, control inflammation, and prevent future episodes. It is also important to rule out other skin conditions that can produce similar symptoms, including lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, or lichen simplex chronicus.

Who Needs Treatment for Vulvovaginitis in Richmond, VA?

For persistent or severe cases, often referred to as Chronic Vulvovaginitis, your provider will develop a plan to ease discomfort, decrease inflammation, and prevent future episodes of irritation. These cases are commonly referred to our care.

It is also essential to rule out other skin or vaginal conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, lichen simplex chronicus, or desquamative inflammatory vaginitis.

What Are the Risks?

Vulvovaginitis is generally not considered serious, but leaving symptoms untreated can result in persistent discomfort or a worsening infection. In some cases, ongoing irritation can lead to cracked or damaged skin, increasing the risk of additional infections. If sexually transmitted infections have not been excluded, there is a possibility of transmitting an infection to a partner, which could also impact future fertility.

What To Expect

If you experience symptoms of vulvovaginitis, your provider will go over your medical history, inquire about any products you have been using, and conduct an examination of the vulva and vagina. A sample of vaginal discharge may be taken to help determine the cause.

Most treatments are straightforward and may include medication or adjustments to daily habits. Your provider will guide you through the next steps, including ways to prevent future irritation and the appropriate timing for follow-up care.

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Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology

The Center for Advanced Gynecology, founded in 2018, is committed to enhancing your health by providing expertise across multiple areas, with a strong emphasis on gynecological care and advanced surgical options when needed.

Our team specializes in non-surgical management of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, as well as vaginal, vulvar, and bladder discomfort for patients in Richmond, VA and beyond.

Since opening, we have recognized the community’s need for comprehensive care beyond specialty services and have expanded our practice to include routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap tests, menopausal management, treatment of hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast health, contraceptive services, urinary incontinence management, and pelvic organ prolapse care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

It is normal for women to have a certain level of vaginal discharge, but when vulvovaginitis is present, this discharge may take on a thicker texture, unusual colour, or noticeable odour. These changes often occur because of infection, irritation, shifts in the natural bacterial balance, inflammatory activity, or shedding of vaginal cells.

Yes, vaginal infections are one of the most frequent reasons for vulvovaginitis. Yeast infections caused by candida or bacterial vaginosis from an imbalance of bacteria are common examples. Additionally, sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or trichomoniasis may lead to the same symptoms.

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the natural balance of healthy vaginal bacteria is disturbed, which results in abnormal discharge, an unpleasant odour, and irritation.

Yes, bubble baths and scented products can be irritating to the vulvar skin and contribute to episodes of vulvovaginitis.

The symptoms often include itching, burning sensations, unusual vaginal discharge, and irritation in the surrounding genital area.

Yes, both inadequate hygiene and excessive washing can upset the natural balance of the vaginal environment. Practices such as douching can further disturb bacterial levels, leading to vulvovaginitis.

Using unscented and gentle products while choosing loose-fitting, breathable clothing can help protect vulvar skin. If irritation occurs from contact, applying a protective ointment like petroleum jelly, zinc oxide creams, or even pure coconut oil can provide relief until the skin recovers.

Atrophic vaginitis is a form of vulvovaginitis that happens when vaginal tissue becomes thinner, typically caused by reduced estrogen after menopause or short-term hormonal shifts following childbirth. Common symptoms are dryness, irritation, discomfort during intercourse, and sometimes discharge.

Avoiding scented or irritating products, wearing cotton underwear, and using medications as directed by a healthcare professional are helpful strategies. It is safe to apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream directly to the vulva and genital area to ease itching.

Yes, contact dermatitis can occur due to sensitivity or allergic reaction to products such as soaps, detergents, or sanitary pads, which in turn may cause vulvovaginitis.

Vaginal itching is specifically the sensation that makes you want to scratch, whereas irritation tends to feel more like rawness, burning, or general discomfort.

Yes, tight clothing worn for long periods can trap heat and moisture, making the genital area prone to irritation and worsening vulvovaginitis.

Candida albicans is a common fungus that is the leading cause of yeast infections, which often produce the symptoms associated with vulvovaginitis.

This condition affects both the vagina and the vulva, leading to irritation, discomfort, and other related symptoms.