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.
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