Vulvitis is inflammation of the external female genitalia (vulva).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Vulvitis can be caused by a number of conditions. These include chronic dermatitis, seborrhea or eczema, and allergies, particularly to soaps, colored toilet paper, vaginal sprays, laundry detergents, bubble bath, or fragrances. It can also be caused by infections such as fungal and bacterial infections, pediculosis, or scabies.
Vulvitis can affect women of all ages. In young girls and postmenopausal women, the condition may be caused by low estrogen levels.
Review Date: 11/8/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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General Gynecology
