Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching and pain. The cause is usually a change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria or an infection. Vaginitis can also result from reduced estrogen levels after menopause.
The most common types of vaginitis are:
Treatment depends on the type of vaginitis you have.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Vaginitis signs and symptoms may include:
The characteristics of vaginal discharge may indicate the type of vaginitis you have. Examples include:
See your doctor if you develop any unusual vaginal discomfort, especially if:
You probably don't need to see your doctor every time you have vaginal irritation and discharge, particularly if:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
The cause depends on the type of vaginitis you have.
Bacterial vaginosis results from an overgrowth of one of several organisms normally present in your vagina. Usually, "good" bacteria (lactobacilli) outnumber "bad" bacteria (anaerobes) in your vagina. But if anaerobic bacteria become too numerous, they upset the balance, causing bacterial vaginosis. This type of vaginitis seems to be linked to sexual intercourse — especially if you have multiple sex partners or a new sex partner — but it also occurs in women who aren't sexually active.
A yeast infection occurs when there's an overgrowth of a fungal organism — usually C. albicans — in your vagina. Besides causing most vaginal yeast infections, C. albicans also causes infections in other moist areas of your body, such as in your mouth (thrush), skin folds and nail beds. The fungus can also cause diaper rash.
Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a microscopic, one-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This organism spreads during sexual intercourse with someone who already has the infection. In men, the organism usually infects the urinary tract, but often it causes no symptoms. In women, trichomoniasis typically infects the vagina, and usually it causes symptoms.
Vaginal sprays, douches, perfumed soaps, scented detergents and spermicidal products may cause an allergic reaction or irritate vulvar and vaginal tissues. Thinning of the vaginal lining — a result of decreased hormone levels following menopause or surgical removal of your ovaries — can also cause vaginal itching and burning.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
To diagnose vaginitis, your doctor may:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Generally, vaginal infections don't cause serious complications. In pregnant women, however, symptomatic bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis have been associated with premature deliveries and low birth weight babies. Women with trichomoniasis or bacterial vaginosis are also at a greater risk of acquiring HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Good hygiene may prevent some types of vaginitis from recurring and may relieve some symptoms:
Other things that may help prevent vaginitis include:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
You'll need prescription medication to treat trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis and vaginal atrophy. If you know you have a yeast infection, you may go ahead with treatment on your own, taking these steps:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Factors that increase your risk of developing vaginitis include:
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
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