What Is Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV)? Symptoms & Treatment Options
Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV) is a relatively rare inflammatory condition affecting the vaginal tissue. It is characterised by ongoing inflammation of the vaginal lining, where the tissue begins to shed in response to irritation and immune activation.
Over time, the result of persistent inflammation can create painful, unwanted symptoms.
While research into DIV is still evolving, it is suggested DIV may be more common in caucasian or perimenopausal individuals and may increase in those with autoimmune conditions.
Whilst there are no published articles yet to explicitly link Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) or Aerobic Vaginitis (AV) with DIV, there are suggestions of the vaginal microbial imbalance contributing. DIV shares similar symptoms and utilises the same medical treatment, highlighting the importance of understanding an individual’s microbiome and providing treatment. Vaginal microbiome testing is available to identify the presence of microbes.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of DIV
Symptoms of DIV can vary between individuals, but commonly include:
Persistent vaginal inflammation or irritation
Red, raw, or fragile vaginal or vulval tissue
Itching, burning, or soreness
Increased vaginal discharge, often yellow or green
Discomfort or pain during sex
Symptoms that do not fully resolve from standard vaginal treatments
The symptoms can flare or persist due to different underlying causes.
Painful intercourse may occur for some people with DIV, particularly when the tissue is inflamed or fragile. Supporting local tissue healing and reducing inflammation is an important part of improving comfort and quality of life.
Hormonal changes - particularly during perimenopause and menopause - may also worsen symptoms. As oestrogen levels decline, vaginal and vulval tissue can become thinner, drier (less lubricated), and less elastic, which can impact tissue resilience and microbiome balance.
As with most conditions, it’s important to take a look at the symptoms, as well as a history of how the condition has manifested in your body. If DIV is suspected, it’s important to get a diagnosis by a specialist to ensure we can create an appropriate and specific treatment plan.
Diagnosis is based on a visual assessment of the vaginal tissue alongside swab testing that shows elevated white blood cells (WBCs), indicating inflammation. There are currently no specific blood tests for DIV.
What Is the Naturopathic Approach to DIV?
From a naturopathic perspective, the goal is to support the body on multiple levels, locally and systemically. If you are already working with a medical specialist but are seeking further support, we can work alongside the medically prescribed treatment, such as antibiotics, to help reduce side effects, and to ensure holistic care.
At Botanical Abundance, naturopathic support for DIV focuses on:
Reducing local inflammation and supporting tissue repair
Restoring healthy mucous membranes and vaginal tissue integrity
Supporting the vaginal microbiome, particularly where imbalances such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) may be contributing
Working alongside prescribed medical treatments, including topical antibiotics when recommended by a specialist
If appropriate, investigate the vaginal microbiome through testing investigations
This integrative support can improve comfort, support healing, and reduce symptom recurrence.
Where appropriate, additional factors such as hormonal imbalances, nervous system support, and immune health may also be explored to ensure a holistic approach and care.
Support at Botanical Abundance
If you are navigating ongoing vaginal symptoms, inflammation, or have been diagnosed with DIV, know that help is available and this is not a condition that you simply have to ‘live with’.
At Botanical Abundance, Jessie offers evidence-based, compassionate care in a non-judgemental, confidential and inclusive space. Jessie works alongside other medical practitioners to ensure that you have access to a range of treatment options and holistic care.
Naturopathic consultations with Jessie are available, click the button below to book an initial consultation if you are ready to start your support.