Vaginitis: Fast Facts

Reviewed By:
Marc Kaufman, M.D., ACOG

• 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.
  
  
• The most common sources of vaginitis are bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections and trichomoniasis.
  
  
• 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, which is usually transmitted through sexual intercourse with an infected partner.
  
  
• Different types of vaginitis have different causes and risk factors.
  
  
  
• 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. It may also include a white, cottage-cheese-like discharge.
  
  
• 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.