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Vaginitis: Fast Facts
- Inflammation or infection of the vagina, or birth canal, is
known as vaginitis.
- Vaginitis is a common condition that can occur when there is a
decrease in the acidity of the vaginal environment.
- The condition can also be caused by other factors, such as
several types of infection or reduced levels of estrogen occurring
after menopause.
- Bacterial vaginosis is
the most common type of vaginitis.
- Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of one of
several bacteria that is normally present in the vagina.
- Yeast infection, or
candidiasis, is caused by an overabundance of candida, a
microscopic fungus that normally inhabits the vagina.
- Trichomoniasis is caused
by a parasite in the vagina, typically Trichomonas
vaginalis.
- Different types of vaginitis have different causes and risk
factors.
- Trichomoniasis is usually transmitted through sexual
intercourse with a partner who is already infected.
- Yeast infections may occur more frequently as a result of
hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy.
- Symptoms generally vary according to the type of
vaginitis.
- Common symptoms may
include a change in the amount, color or odor of vaginal
discharge.
- Vaginitis can also result in symptoms such as itching or
burning inside or around the vagina.
- Bacterial vaginosis may result in foul-smelling discharge that
is grayish white.
- The primary symptoms of a yeast infection are itching and
burning inside and around the vagina.
- Trichomoniasis may cause a greenish yellow discharge that is
sometimes frothy in appearance.
- Diagnosis of vaginitis depends on which type of vaginitis is
suspected.
- In order to determine the correct diagnosis, your doctor will
take a medical history and perform a pelvic examination.
- Microscopic analysis of vaginal discharge is also required for
diagnosis.
- Treatment of
vaginitis also depends on which type of infection is
present.
- Many forms of treatment are available in oral or topical
form.
- Prevention methods
include practicing safe sex, clean toilet habits and avoiding use
of vaginal sprays, deodorants and douches.
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