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ICD-10 Coding for Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis(O86.13)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Postpartum VaginitisVaginitis Following Delivery

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis

O86.1-O86.19Primary Range

Infections of the genital tract following delivery

This range includes codes for postpartum infections, including vulvovaginitis following delivery.

Infections of the genitourinary tract in pregnancy

This range is used for vulvovaginitis occurring during pregnancy, not postpartum.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for vulvovaginitis following childbirth

Essential facts and insights about Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis

The ICD-10 code for vulvovaginitis following childbirth is O86.13, applicable for postpartum cases within 42 days of delivery.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for childbirth complicated by vulvovaginitis

Vaginitis following delivery
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Postpartum symptoms with lab confirmation

coding Criteria

  • Use O86.13 for postpartum cases only

documentation Criteria

  • Include specific postpartum timing and lab results

Applicable To

  • Postpartum vulvovaginitis

Excludes

  • Antepartum vulvovaginitis (O23.5)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Postpartum timing (≤42 days post-delivery)
  • Vaginal discharge/itching with pH >4.5
  • Positive KOH/wet mount/molecular testing

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with antepartum codes
  • Omission of postpartum timing documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies postpartum timing and diagnostic confirmation.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Weeks of gestation

Z3A.XX
Use if vulvovaginitis originated antepartum.

Candidal vulvovaginitis

B37.3
Use when Candida species is confirmed by culture/PCR.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Infections of the genitourinary tract in pregnancy

O23.5
Use for vulvovaginitis occurring during pregnancy, not postpartum.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code O86.13.

Impact

Clinical: Misclassification of the condition's timing., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the postpartum day count., Verify timing with patient history.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify and document the timing of symptoms relative to delivery.

Impact

Lack of specific postpartum timing can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all postpartum cases include timing and diagnostic details.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Postpartum Vaginitis Diagnosis

Specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Required Elements

  • Postpartum timing
  • Symptoms description
  • Diagnostic test results

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Vaginal discharge noted.
Good Documentation Example
Postpartum day 3: copious white discharge, pH 5.0, KOH+ hyphae, consistent with candidal vaginitis.
Explanation
The good example provides specific timing, symptoms, and diagnostic results.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Childbirth Complicated by Vulvovaginitis? Ask your questions below.

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