vaginitis
Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that causes discharge, itching, and pain Disruption of vaginal microflora balance and infection are frequent causes Vaginitis can also be caused by a drop in estrogen levels after menopause
The most frequent forms of vaginitis are:
- Bacterial vaginosis, which develops as a result of overgrowth of any microorganism normally present in the vagina
- Fungal infections, which are mainly caused by Candida Albicans fungus
- Trichomoniasis which is caused by a parasite and is sexually transmitted
- Atrophic vaginitis caused by a drop in estrogen levels after menopause
Treatment depends on the form of vaginitis
The cause depends on the form of vaginitis
Bacterial vaginosis Bacterial vaginosis is caused by the overgrowth of any microorganism normally present in the vagina. Normally, 'good' bacteria (lactobacilli) outnumber 'bad bacteria' (anaerobes) In case of excretion of anaerobic bacteria, the balance is disturbed and bacterial vaginosis develops This form of vaginitis is more often associated with sexual contact, although it also occurs in women who are not sexually active.
Fungal infections Fungal infection develops as a result of overgrowth of fungi. C albicans causes fungal infections of both the vagina and other parts of the body The fungus can also cause diaper dermatitis
Trichomoniasis Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease caused by the single-celled parasite Trichomonas vaginalis This parasite is sexually transmitted In men, it mainly causes asymptomatic urinary tract infections In women, trichomoniasis affects the vagina and causes symptoms
Non-infectious vaginitis Vaginal enemas, personal care products and spermicide products can cause an allergic reaction or irritate the vaginal tissues. Thinning of the vaginal lining, mainly due to low estrogen levels or oophorectomy, also causes vaginal burning and itching.
Signs and symptoms of vaginitis include:
- Change in color, odor, or amount of vaginal discharge
- Vaginal itching or irritation
- Pain during intercourse
- Painful urination
- Light vaginal bleeding
Character of vaginal discharge At this time, you may have grayish, foul-smelling discharge Bad breath, often described as fishy, may be more noticeable after intercourse
fungal infection The main symptom is itching, but you may also have a curd-like discharge Trichomoniasis Trichomoniasis is an infection that causes a greenish-yellow, sometimes frothy discharge
When to see your doctor See your doctor if you have unusual vaginal discomfort, especially if:
- You have never had a vaginal infection Your doctor will determine the cause and help you distinguish between signs and symptoms
- You have had a vaginal infection, but this case is different
- You have multiple or new sexual partners You may have a sexually transmitted disease The signs and symptoms of many sexually transmitted diseases are similar to those of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
- You have taken a course of anti-fungal medication but still have a high temperature and vaginal odor This can be a sign of a non-fungal infection or an infection with a resistant strain of the fungus
Sometimes it's better to wait It is not necessary to see a doctor every time you have vaginal irritation or discharge, especially if:
- You have already had a vaginal yeast infection and you have similar signs and symptoms
- You know the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection and
