Treatment for vulvovaginitis (medicines, ointments and more)

Vulvovaginitis can be treated using medicines in the form of tablets or ointments, such as metronidazole, amoxicillin, fluconazole or clotrimazole, for example, which varies according to the cause of vulvovaginitis.

Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation and infection in the vulva and vagina caused by allergies, bacteria, viruses, fungi or protozoa, as in the case of bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis or trichomoniasis, causing itching, discharge or irritation and redness in the genital region. See other symptoms of vulvovaginitis and its causes.

The treatment of vulvovaginitis must be carried out under the guidance of a gynecologist, who can recommend the best medicine, as well as complementary treatments, according to its cause.

Main treatments for vulvovaginitis

The main treatments for vulvovaginitis are:

1. Antibiotic pills

Most cases of vulvovaginitis are caused by bacteria, and in these cases the use of oral antibiotics, such as metronidazole, amoxicillin or cephalosporins, is recommended. Find out how to take metronidazole.

In cases where vaginitis is caused by a virus, the doctor may recommend the use of antivirals.

2. Oral antifungals

In the case of vulvovaginitis caused by fungi, mainly by Candida albicans, the gynecologist may recommend the use of oral antifungals, such as fluconazole or itraconazole. Check out the main treatments for candidiasis.

These remedies should be used according to the gynecologist’s instructions, even if there are no more symptoms, as this ensures the elimination of the infectious agent responsible for vulvovaginitis.

3. Vaginal eggs

Vaginal eggs may also be recommended by a gynecologist for the treatment of vulvovaginitis caused by bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis or candidiasis.

Some examples of vaginal ovules are fenticonazole, clotrimazole or metronidazole + miconazole, for example. See the main vaginal ovules and how to apply them correctly.

4. Ointments

Ointments with antimicrobial and antiseptic properties can be indicated in all cases of vulvovaginitis, and it is recommended that they be applied to the site of inflammation, that is, directly to the vagina.

In the case of vulvovaginitis caused by bacteria, the use of ointments with metronidazole is normally indicated, while in vulvovaginitis due to candidiasis, ointment with miconazole or clotrimazole may be recommended. Check out the main ointments for candidiasis.

In the case of vulvovaginitis caused by allergies, the gynecologist may recommend the use of corticosteroid ointments, such as betamethasone, to reduce irritation and alleviate symptoms.

Just like medicines, ointments must be used according to the gynecologist’s instructions even if there are no more symptoms, as this makes it possible to guarantee the correct elimination of the infectious agent and prevent recurrence.

Home treatment for vulvovaginitis

Home treatment for vulvovaginitis can be done to complement the treatment recommended by the gynecologist and consists of consuming probiotics to balance the vaginal microbiota, and sitz baths with thyme and rosemary, for example. Check out some home remedy options for vulvovaginitis.

Furthermore, it is important to maintain intimate hygiene, avoid using synthetic fabric panties, creams or other products that could irritate the genital region, and it is recommended to wear clothes made from more natural and breathable fabrics, such as cotton.

Treatment for infantile vulvovaginitis

Treatment for childhood vulvovaginitis is similar to that used for adult women.

However, there are factors specific to children that prevent the appearance of vulvovaginitis, such as:

• Change the child’s diaper frequently;
• Leave the child without a diaper whenever possible;
• Keep the skin of the child’s intimate area dry;
• Use barrier creams, such as zinc or castor oil, in the intimate area.

If a child develops a diaper rash, there may be a greater chance of suffering from colonization by Candida albicans, which can lead to the emergence of vulvovaginitis. See the main ointments for diaper rash.