Itching of the vulva with a slight unpleasant odor in vaginal discharge

May 11, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Poor personal hygiene in daily life can lead to malodorous vaginal discharge, which may irritate the mucous membranes of the external genitalia, causing vulvar itching. Local inflammation of the vulvar skin can result from infection by external pathogens, unclean conditions, physical or chemical stimuli, or foreign body irritation. Vaginal inflammation caused by imbalance of vaginal flora can produce inflammatory secretions that irritate the area around the vaginal opening, leading to itching and discomfort.

Itching of the vulva and vaginal discharge with an unusual odor may be caused by non-disease factors, or may be related to medical conditions such as vulvitis or vaginitis. The underlying cause should be diagnosed before treatment is initiated. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Non-disease causes

Poor personal hygiene, including failure to clean the vulva regularly or change underwear frequently, can lead to malodorous vaginal discharge. The discharge may irritate the mucous membranes of the vulvar area, causing itching. Symptoms typically resolve with regular washing of the vulva and frequent changing of undergarments.

2. Disease causes

1) Vulvitis

Inflammation of the skin on the vulva caused by external pathogens, unhygienic conditions, physical or chemical irritation, or foreign body stimulation can result in smelly discharge and vulvar itching. It is often accompanied by local redness, swelling, and pain. Treatment may include medicated washes or topical agents such as Honghe Fuyan Wash Solution, Compound Huangbai Shuangan Wash, or Clotrimazole Cream, used according to medical advice.

2) Vaginitis

Vaginal inflammation caused by a decline in immunity or poor hygiene, leading to pathogenic bacteria invading the vagina and disrupting the normal vaginal flora. Inflammatory secretions may irritate the area around the vaginal opening, causing itching and discomfort. Treatment may include medications such as Metronidazole Suppositories, Nifuratel Vaginal Soft Capsules, or Nystatin Suppositories, used as directed by a physician.

In addition to the above, similar symptoms may also be caused by other conditions such as cervicitis, endometritis, or adnexitis. It is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse, refrain from consuming irritating foods, and seek prompt gynecological evaluation and treatment at a hospital.