INFLAMMATION OF THE VULVA

Categories: Diseases of Women

(Vulvitis). An acute or chronic inflammation
of the vulva (external genitals) either from a specific, like gonorrhoea,

or non-specific cause.



Causes. Veit says, "Seventy-five per cent of the cases are caused by

gonorrhoea."



Other Causes. Accumulation and decomposition of discharges from the womb

and vagina, inflammation of the inner lining of the womb and of the

vagina. Foul, putrid di charges from neglected supports (pessaries) and

tampons in the vagina; sloughings from cancer may act as exciting causes.

Contact with ammoniacal and sugar urines has a similar effect.






In Infants. It is usually due to want of cleanliness in failing to remove

decomposing urine and feces. Mothers often allow soiled, foul smelling

diapers to remain for a long time on the baby.



Symptoms and Condition of the Parts. In the acute stage the mucous

membrane around the opening of the vagina is red, swollen, painful and

bathed in pus. The glands in the groin and glands of Bartholin are usually

enlarged and tender. The glands of Bartholin and those around the urethra



may become infected and fill with pus. The fatty glands of the labia

majora are also sometimes affected and then appears the disease called

Follicular Vulvitis (in the chronic stage secretion is abundant). The

parts feel hot and there is more or less burning and itching. Walking

makes the trouble worse, due to rubbing of the parts. Passing of urine

increases the distress.



When the disease is caused by gonorrhoea it is more extensive and involves

the vagina, urethra, the glands around the urethra and glands of

Bartholin. This gland infection frequently results in an abscess.



Treatment. In the acute form the patient should go to bed and remain

there for some time. The parts should be kept constantly moist with a wet

antiseptic dressing, listerine, hot water, etc., applied to the vulva and

kept there.



1. If there is much pain the following solution may be used:



Acetate of lead 1 dram

Laudanum 1/2 ounce



Water enough for six ounces.



Mix and apply constantly with sterile cloths.



2. For chronic form Dr. Child says, "The vulva should be shaved, thoroughly

cleansed and a mild ointment applied daily thereafter," such as:



Salicylic acid 20 grains

Oxide of zinc 2 drams

Petrolatum enough for 1 ounce



Mix and make an ointment and apply daily.



If it is due to irritating discharges that cannot be checked, cleanse the

parts thoroughly and use the Zinc ointment to protect.