Vulvar diseases range from sexually transmitted diseases to cancer and include infections and autoimmune diseases. The most common type is STDs, while urinary infections and several types of vulvar cancer are also included. Prevention includes safe sex, staying hydrated, and avoiding tight clothing.
A vulvar disease is any disease or condition affecting the vulva and vagina of the human female. These types of diseases can range from sexually transmitted diseases to cancer and include infections and autoimmune diseases. Vulva refers to all of a woman’s genitals, while vagina refers only to the internal structure. Sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably.
The vulva is a sexual organ, and therefore the most common type of vulvar disease is sexually transmitted disease (STD). STDs have a variety of causes, including bacteria and viruses as well as fungi and parasites. The common thread in all STDs is that they are contagious and are usually transmitted through sexual contact. Gonorrhea, pubic lice, and genital warts are all STDs. Other examples include genital herpes and trichomoniasis.
Urinary infections, including bladder infection and urinary tract infection (UTI), are another common vulvar disease. Each of these is caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, causing painful urination, bloody urine, and foul-smelling discharge from the vulva. Urinary infections are one of the few vulvar diseases that can be treated with non-prescription drugs, but if these infections suddenly become frequent, the patient should still consult a doctor. If left untreated, these infections can lead to serious kidney complications.
Vulvar disease also includes several types of vulvar cancer. Symptoms of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma include red, pink, or white bumps that resemble warts. Another symptom is skin that appears white or rough on the vulva. Melanoma of the vulva is a kind of skin cancer on the vulva and accounts for a small percentage of vulvar cancer cases. This type of vulvar cancer is characterized by a dark pigmented growth.
The first step to avoiding vulvar disease is to always practice safe sex to avoid contracting STDs. Second, drink plenty of water and urinate frequently to avoid bacteria buildup in the vagina or urinary tract. Also, avoid wearing tight clothing or underwear and prolonged humidity because these are breeding conditions for bacteria. Wash the vulva at least once a day with products that do not contain perfumes, dyes or deodorants as they can irritate the vagina. Always consult a doctor if unusual odors, lesions or symptoms are detected.
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