Vaginitis describes a number of conditions that can cause infection or inflammation of your vagina. Vulvovaginitis describes inflammation of both your vagina and your vulva. Your vulva is the external part of your genitals.
What Are the Symptoms of Vaginal Infections?
Some vaginal infections may not produce any symptoms. If you develop symptoms, the most common are:
vaginal itching change in the amount of discharge from your vagina change in the color of discharge from your vagina pain or burning during urination pain during intercourse vaginal bleeding or spotting
The symptoms of vaginal infections will also vary based on the cause of your infection:
Bacterial infections typically cause grayish-white or yellow discharge. This discharge may have a fish-like odor that’s easily noticed after sex.Yeast infections typically produce itching. If discharge is present, it may be thick and white and look like cottage cheese. Trichomoniasis is a condition that can produce vaginal itching and odor. Discharge from this infection is typically greenish-yellow and may be frothy.
Vaginal infections are not life-threatening conditions. However, you should make an appointment to see your doctor if you:
have never had a vaginal infection before have had a vaginal infection but are experiencing new symptoms have had different or new sexual partners develop a fever believe you may be pregnant have symptoms that return after treatment
If you experience vaginal irritation and have been diagnosed with yeast infections in the past, you may not need to see your doctor. Yeast infections can be treated at home with over-the-counter vaginal anti fungal medications. However, if you’re not sure that you have a yeast infection, it’s always wise to check with your doctor
What Causes Vaginal Infections?
Vaginal infections can have a number of causes. If you develop a vaginal infection, your doctor will diagnose and treat your infection based on its cause. Common causes of vaginal infections include:
Bacterial infections:
Certain bacteria are commonly found in your vagina. Overgrowth of these bacteria can cause bacterial vaginosis. Yeast infections: Yeast infections are usually caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. Many things, including antibiotics, can reduce the number of anti fungal bacteria in your vagina. This reduction can lead to an overgrowth of fungi and cause an infection.
Trichomoniasis:
Certain bacteria are commonly found in your vagina. Overgrowth of these bacteria can cause bacterial vaginosis. Yeast infections: Yeast infections are usually caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. Many things, including antibiotics, can reduce the number of anti fungal bacteria in your vagina. This reduction can lead to an overgrowth of fungi and cause an infection.
Trichomoniasis:
This vaginal infection is caused by a protozoan parasite that can be contracted through sexual intercourse.Vaginal atrophy: This condition commonly occurs after menopause. It can also develop during other times in your life when your estrogen levels decline, such as while breastfeeding. Reduced hormone levels can cause vaginal thinning and dryness. These can lead to inflammation of your vagina.
Irritants:
Soaps, body washes, perfumes, and vaginal contraceptives can all irritate your vagina. This can cause inflammation. Tight-fitting clothes may also cause heat rashes that irritate your vagina.
In some cases, your doctor may not be able to determine the cause of your vaginal infection. This condition is known as nonspecific vulvo vaginitis. It can occur in women of any age. It’s more common in young girls that have not entered puberty.
How Are Vaginal Infections Diagnosed?
To diagnose a vaginal infection, your doctor will ask you about your health history. They will ask about your current number of sexual partners and your history of past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Your doctor may also perform a pelvic exam. During this exam, your doctor may collect a sample of vaginal discharge. They’ll send this sample to a laboratory for analysis. This can help your doctor learn what’s causing your infection
How Are Vaginal Infections Treated?
Treatment for vaginal infections will depend on what’s causing your infection. For example:
Metronidazole tablets metronidazole cream or gelorclindamycin cream or gel may be prescribed for a bacterial infection. Antifungal creams or suppositories may be prescribed for a yeast infection.
Metronidazole or tinidazoletablets may be prescribed for trichomoniasis. Estrogen creams or tablets may be prescribed for vaginal atrophy. If your infection is caused by an irritant, such as soap, your doctor will recommend a different product to reduce irritation.
Metronidazole or tinidazoletablets may be prescribed for trichomoniasis. Estrogen creams or tablets may be prescribed for vaginal atrophy. If your infection is caused by an irritant, such as soap, your doctor will recommend a different product to reduce irritation.
What Is the Outlook If You Develop This Condition?
Treatment for vaginal infections is generally very effective. Proper diagnosis will ensure that you receive the right treatment
How Can You Prevent Vaginal Infections?
Not all vaginal infections can be prevented. Using a condom during sexual intercourse will help prevent the spread of STIs. It will also lower your risk of contracting them. Proper hygiene can also help prevent some vaginal infections. When possible, you should wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch. This can lower your risk of developing vaginal inflammation and irritation. Some women develop inflammation and irritation from wearing less breathable fabrics
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