Vulvitis is one of the most common gynecological inflammations in women, often caused by poor personal hygiene. It can be classified as acute or chronic. So, what are the specific symptoms and treatment methods? Let's take a look together.
Symptoms of Vulvitis
1. Symptoms of chronic vulvitis
(1) Initially, there may be discomfort in the vulva. As the condition progresses, itching and pain may develop, and some patients may experience swelling and congestion in the vulva.
(2) The vulva and urethra are located near each other. If inflammation occurs, it may lead to urethritis and should be taken seriously.
(3) Itching, thickened, rough, and cracked skin in the vulva, accompanied by symptoms such as pain during urination or intercourse.
2. Symptoms of acute vulvitis
(1) Patients may initially feel discomfort in the vulva, followed by itching, pain, or a burning sensation.
(2) Swelling and congestion of the skin and mucous membranes in the vulva (including the labia majora, labia minora, and clitoris) may also occur.
(3) In severe cases, ulcers or extensive eczema may form, accompanied by pain during urination or intercourse.
(4) Infection with herpes simplex virus can cause sudden onset of symptoms, with ulcers forming after the blisters break. This may be accompanied by fever, swollen inguinal lymph nodes, and general discomfort. The ulcer base is grayish-yellow, significantly congested and swollen. It can heal on its own but often recurs, and is also one of the symptoms of acute vulvitis.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment for Vulvitis
1. Chai Hu Shi Gao Tang
Composition: 6g of Chai Hu, 15g of Shi Gao, 6g of Huang Qin, 4.5g of Jing Jie, 6g of Qian Hu, 6g of Fu Ling, 3g of Sheng Ma, 6g of Sang Bai Pi, 3g of Gan Cao.
Usage: Decoction, take 1 dose daily, 2 times a day.
Main Functions: Clear heat and dampness, dispel wind and relieve itching.
2. Hua Yang Tang
Composition: 9g of fried Zhi Zi, 9g of Tian Hua Fen, 9g of Chai Hu, 6g of Gan Cao, 12g of Bai Shao.
Usage: Decoction, take 1 dose daily, 2 times a day.
Main Functions: Clear heat and resolve depression, disperse fire and relieve itching.
3. Ku Huang She Pi Tang
Composition: 30g of Ku Shen, 30g of Huang Bai, 50g of Shuang Hua, 30g of She Chuang Zi, 50g of Bai Xian Pi.
Usage: First, put the herbs in a pot, add an appropriate amount of water, soak for about 30 minutes, then boil for about 40 minutes, remove the residue, use the decoction to fumigate and wash the vulva, and then take a sitz bath when the temperature is moderate, about 15 minutes each time, twice a day.
Main Functions: Clear heat and dampness, kill parasites, and relieve itching.
【Points to Note for Women with Vulvitis】
1. Maintain cleanliness and dryness of the vulva
Women with vulvitis must pay attention to keeping the vulva clean and dry, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, and puerperium. The vulva should be washed daily, and underwear should be changed frequently.
2. Avoid using irritating soaps
Women with vulvitis should not use irritating soaps, medications, or water that is too cold or too hot to clean the vulva.
3. Wash hands frequently and trim nails
Women with vulvar itching should trim their nails and wash their hands frequently. They should not scratch the skin to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
