What is the most common cause of vulvovaginitis?

The most common cause of vulvovaginitis is bacterial vaginosis. This condition is characterized by an imbalance in the normal bacterial flora of the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria. Symptoms may include a discharge that is often gray or white, a fishy odor, and irritation or itching in the vaginal area.

Bacterial vaginosis is particularly prevalent among women of reproductive age and is often associated with sexual activity, although it is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection. Its non-sexual causes include douching and the use of certain personal care products that disrupt the natural flora.

Recognizing bacterial vaginosis as the leading cause is critical for appropriate treatment and management, as it can often be mistaken for other types of infections, such as yeast infections or trichomoniasis, which also contribute to vulvovaginitis but occur less frequently. Understanding the prevalence and presentation of bacterial vaginosis helps health professionals provide proper care and education to their patients.