What causes vulvovaginitis?

Vulvovaginitis can be caused by a variety of different factors, including fungi, bacterial, or hormonal imbalances. The types of vulvovaginitis can be further classified by the contributory factors that can cause it. For example, bacterial vulvovaginitis, which is the most common variety, is caused by an abundance of pathogens in the vagina, though the reason this happens is unclear. Candidal vulvovaginitis is caused by an infection of Candida fungi, typically C. albicans. Reactions to certain bubble baths, soaps, sprays, or contraceptives such as spermacide or condoms can also cause vulvovaginitis. On the other hand, poor hygiene can cause an infection of the vagina, namely wiping from the back to the front or neglecting to wash your hands after going to the bathroom. Certain sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) such as trichomonas vaginitis or gonorrhea can cause another type of vulvovaginitis. Finally, there are several factors that facilitate infections in the vagina including thinned vaginal walls due to a deficiency in estrogen and irritated vaginal tissue.