Redness of the vulva lips (labia) is a common symptom indicating underlying irritation or inflammation. Several factors can cause this, ranging from minor irritants to infections or more serious conditions.
Potential Causes of Red Vulva Lips:
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Vulvitis: This is inflammation of the labia majora and labia minora (the outer and inner folds of the vulva). Vulvitis is often caused by infection, injury, or allergic reaction. [Reference: Vulvitis is the inflammation of the labia majora and labia minora — the outer folds of the vulva and the parts of a woman's genitals that are outside her body, rather than inside. These can become inflamed through infection, injury, and allergic reaction.07-Aug-2023] [Reference: Vulvitis is inflammation in your vulva, or genitals. Vulvitis is common and can result from an allergic reaction, an infection or an injury. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15175-vulvitis] [Reference: Vulvitis is an inflammation of the vulva, the soft folds of skin outside the vagina. It's a symptom that can result from an array of diseases. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/vulvitis]
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Vulvar Dermatitis: This skin condition causes redness, pain, and itching of the vulva. It can be triggered by heat, wetness, or reactions to scented soaps and other irritants. [Reference: Vulvar dermatitis happens when the vulva becomes red, painful, and itchy. Dermatitis can be caused by heat or wetness or can be a reaction to scented soaps, ... https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tw12153]
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Yeast Infection (Thrush): If the inflammation extends to the external genitals, the labia may appear red and swollen. [Reference: Apr 4, 2022 ... If the inflammation has spread to the external genitals, areas such as the labia ("lips") might be red and swollen too. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK543220/]
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Irritated Vulva: Redness can be a symptom of various underlying skin conditions, infections, or other health issues. [Reference: Your vulva can become irritated due to a skin condition, an infection, or another health condition. Treatment can depend on the underlying condition. https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/irritated-vulva]
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Vulvar Cancer (Less Common): In some cases, red, white, or dark patches on the vulva can be a sign of vulvar cancer. This is a less frequent cause but requires immediate medical attention if suspected. [Reference: thickened, raised, red, white or dark patches on the ... your legs and hold a mirror so that you can see your vulva. Use the other hand to separate the outer lips ... https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/vulval-cancer/symptoms]
Important Note:
Redness of the vulva lips is not always serious, but it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate management. Self-treating can be risky and may delay effective treatment.
