Irritation of the vulva. Most commonly, vulval itching is due to an allergic reaction to chemicals in spermicidal or hygiene products. Itching is also common after the menopause, when it is due to low levels of oestrogen. In addition, vulval itching may be caused by a vaginal discharge due to infection (see vaginitis) or by vulval skin changes (see vulvitis).
Treatment may be with antibiotics or hormones, depending on the cause.
Irritation in the vagina, often associated with vulval itching. In many cases, it is a symptom of vaginitis, which may be caused by infection or an allergic reaction to hygiene or spermicidal products. Vaginal itching is common after the menopause, when it is caused by low oestrogen levels. Depending on the cause, treatment may be with antibiotic drugs or hormones.... vaginal itching
a relatively rare gynaecological cancer, most common in the elderly. The most common symptom is longstanding itch, but vulval pain, discharge, and bleeding have also been reported. Surgery is the primary treatment, with wide excision by radical *vulvectomy and regional *lymphadenectomy. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can also be used.... vulval cancer
(VIN) premalignant disease of the vulva, which has histological features and terminology similar to those of *cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Viral aetiological factors, such as HPV, are thought to be involved. The most common presenting symptom is itch, but VIN may be asymptomatic and detected only during treatment of preinvasive or invasive lesions of the cervix or lower genital tract.... vulval intraepithelial neoplasia
pain on entry or touch of the vulva, with redness of the *vestibular glands, tenderness on pressure, and dyspareunia. The pain, which is localized, is described as a severe burning sensation; itching is not usually a feature (compare vulvitis). The condition seems to be more common in premenopausal Caucasian women with a history of anxiety and related disorders. See also vulvodynia.... vulval vestibulitis
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