Vaginitis is a general term referring to inflammation of the vagina and can be caused by various types of infection, such as yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. Other symptoms include burning during urination, redness, soreness, odor, and unusual discharge. If untreated, vaginitis can increase your risk for other infections. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available can help you effectively manage this condition.
This article will discuss different types of vaginitis, their causes, symptoms, and available treatments. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent further infections.
About Vaginitis
Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina caused by various factors, from infections to allergies. Vaginitis can cause symptoms such as vaginal itching, burning, irritation, and abnormal discharge. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment for vaginitis may include medications or lifestyle changes.
Common Types of Vaginitis
Yeast Infection
This type of vaginitis is caused by a yeast called Candida Albicans and is the most common cause of vaginal itching. Symptoms include a thick white discharge, redness, irritation in the vagina, and pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV):
This common form of vaginitis is caused by an imbalance in bacteria in the vagina, which leads to an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria. It can cause excessive thin grayish-white vaginal discharge with a fish-like odor.
Trichomoniasis:
This type of vaginitis is caused by parasites called trichomonads and is typically transmitted through sexual intercourse. Symptoms can include a yellow-greenish or gray vaginal discharge that may have an unpleasant smell and itching and burning in the vagina.
Atrophic Vaginitis:
This type of vaginitis is caused by low levels of estrogen, which cause thinning of the vagina walls and decreased lubrication. It can lead to discomfort during sexual intercourse, reduced elasticity of the vagina walls, and urinary incontinence due to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.
Viral Vaginitis:
This type of vaginitis is caused by certain viruses such as Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) or Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).
Symptoms of Vaginitis
The most common symptoms of vaginitis include:
Vaginal itching
One of the most common symptoms of vaginitis is intense itching around the vagina. This symptom can be worse during urination and sexual intercourse.
Burning sensation
Vaginitis may cause a burning sensation while urinating or during intercourse and during daily activities like washing and wearing tight clothing.
Unusual discharge
Another symptom usually present with vaginitis is a change in the consistency and color of the vaginal discharge. It may be gray, white, yellow, or green and have an odor that’s different from normal.
Pain
Depending on the cause of vaginitis, there may also be pain in the pelvic area as well as during urination or intercourse.
Swelling of the external vagina
In some cases, there may be visible swelling around the opening of the vagina due to inflammation caused by vaginitis.
Yeast infection signs
If you are suffering from a yeast infection (also known as candidiasis), you may experience other symptoms such as redness, soreness, and white patches on your skin near your vagina.
Causes of Vaginitis
- Bacterial vaginosis is caused by a change in the normal balance of bacteria inside the vagina, which leads to an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria.
- Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans, which normally lives in small amounts within the vagina.
- Trichomoniasis is caused by a single-celled parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis, that can be passed through sexual contact with an infected partner.
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea are sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause inflammation and infection in the reproductive organs if left untreated.
- Allergic reactions to products such as scented soaps, bubble baths, douches, and spermicides can cause irritation and inflammation of the vagina.
- Hormonal changes associated with menopause or childbirth can also cause vaginitis due to decreased lubrication and thinning of the vaginal walls.
How can vaginitis be treated?
Here are five treatments for vaginitis:
Antifungal medications:
These medications are often prescribed to treat fungal infections such as thrush and candida albicans infections. Common antifungal medications include clotrimazole (Canesten), miconazole (Monistat) and terconazole (Terazol).
Antibiotics
Bacterial vaginosis is commonly treated with metronidazole (Flagyl) and clindamycin (Cleocin).
Antivirals
Antiviral medications like acyclovir (Zovirax) and valacyclovir (Valtrex) may be prescribed for treating viral vaginitis.
Hormonal treatments
If the cause of vaginitis is an imbalance in hormones, birth control pills or other hormone therapy may be recommended to help restore balance.
Steroid creams
These are sometimes used to treat inflammatory vaginal conditions, such as lichen sclerosus or lichen planus. The steroid cream is applied directly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.
How to Prevent Vaginitis?
Here are five tips for preventing vaginitis:
1. Wear cotton underwear
2. Avoid scented products
3. Avoid tight clothing
4. Practice proper hygiene
5. Get tested for STIs regularly
The Bottom Line
Vaginitis is a common condition that can cause irritation and other uncomfortable symptoms in the vaginal area. Bacterial or fungal infections, mechanical irritation, or changes in hormones or pH balance can cause it. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, antifungal medications, probiotics, topical creams, and lifestyle modifications. With proper diagnosis and care, you don’t have to live with vaginitis long-term.
FAQs
Q1.How do you get vaginitis?
Vaginitis is caused by an imbalance of the normal bacteria in the vagina or a yeast infection. It can also be caused by irritants such as soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, perfumed bath products, douches, and creams.
Q2.How long does vaginitis last?
The duration of vaginitis can vary from a few days to several weeks. In some cases, it may last longer if not treated properly.
Q3.Will vaginitis go away on its own?
Vaginitis can sometimes go away on its own, especially if a minor irritation causes it. However, in many cases, it is crucial to seek medical attention.
Q4. Is vaginitis an STD?
No, vaginitis is not an STD. Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can be caused by a variety of conditions, including infections, allergies, and hormonal imbalances. Some types of vaginitis are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but not all cases are related to sexual activity.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive health care treatments here.