Problems affecting this area include:

• Infection with Candida albicans (candidiasis or "yeast infection")
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV) associated with the Gardnerella, formerly called "nonspecific vaginitis"
• Trichomoniasis
• Vulvodynia
• Vestibulodynia
• Cervical cancer (prevented by Pap smear screening)
• Urinary bladder infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), cystitis, Urethritis
• Various types of prolapse (where another pelvic organ protrudes into the vagina)
• Lichen Sclerosis (auto-immune disorder)
• Cancer of the vulva
• Genital warts

Vulvo-Perineal Localization of Dermatologic Disorders

Systemic disorders may be localized in the vulvo-perineal region.^[1]

• In Langerhans cell histiocytosis, lesions initially are erythematous, purpuric papules and they then become scaly, crusted and sometimes confluent.
• In Kawasaki disease, an erythematous, desquamating perineal rash may occur in the second week of symptom onset, almost at the same time as palmoplantar desquamation.
• Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a biochemical disorder of zinc metabolism.

Tumoral and Hamartomatous Diseases of the Vulva

• Tumoral Diseases
• Hemangiomas and Vascular Dysplasia May Involve the Perineal Region
• Infantile Perianal Pyramidal Protrusion^[2]

Diaper Dermatitis in Infancy

Infectious diseases

• Vaginitis
• Perineal dermatitis
• Viral infections
• Infestations with pinworms (rare), scabies and lice.^[4]

Causes

The vulva and vagina have a "normal flora" of "friendly" microorganisms (including the lactobacillus which turns milk into yogurt) which help to keep the area healthy. When the normal balance is disturbed, an infection can result.

Symptoms

The generic term for infection of the vagina is vaginitis. Symptoms may include an unusual or unpleasant discharge, itching, or pain during intercourse. But vaginal infections may also be present without any noticeable symptoms.

Maintaining health

The following measures are advisable for keeping the vulva and vagina healthy:

• Washing once a day or so with water but without soap, since soap disturbs the natural pH balance of the vagina. Other measures are seldom necessary or advisable. Two notable examples: so-called "feminine hygiene sprays" are unnecessary, may be generally harmful, and have been known to cause severe allergic reactions. Vaginal douching is generally not necessary and has been implicated in helping to cause bacterial vaginosis (BV) and candidiasis ("yeast infections").
• After using the toilet, wipe from the front toward the back to avoid introducing bacteria from the anal area into the vulva. Use non-perfumed, undyed toilet paper.
• Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently and as soon as possible when you feel the need, to help flush bacteria out of the urinary tract and avoid urinary tract infections. For the same reason, try to urinate before and after sex.
  
   
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