Vaginitis is an uncomfortable topic, in more ways than one. This common problem sends millions of women to their gynecologists each year. This means that it's likely that you or someone you care about will be affected. So what are the common causes and treatments of vaginitis?
Vaginitis is a condition in which the vaginal wall becomes inflamed. Women with vaginitis often report itching, burning, or a vaginal discharge. Common causes include changes in the normal pH balance of the vagina and infections. Vaginitis is curable, and treatment targets the source of the irritation.
Below you will find answers to the common questions about vaginitis. To learn about the common causes and treatments, read on.
Vaginitis is a term that means inflammation of the vagina. This irritation causes bothersome symptoms such as:
Vaginitis is a treatable condition that may last only a few days, or up to several weeks. It usually affects women during their reproductive years.
Vaginitis can be acute or chronic. Chronic vaginitis is rare, but can be caused by conditions such as postmenopausal atrophy or allergic dermatitis. About 85% of cases are related to one of the three major causes: bacterial vaginosis, Candida (yeast) infection, or Trichomoniasis infection.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina. The body normally contains various microbes growing in a delicate balance. When the normal flora of the vagina are disrupted, some grow out of control and can change the pH balance.
Antibiotics, some body care products such as scented soaps and perfumes, and even sexual intercourse can cause BV because they can affect the body’s normal balance. Women with BV may show no symptoms at all, or they may have signs and symptoms of vaginitis.
In some cases, BV causes a green or yellow-ish discharge or fishy odor.
Yeast infections are an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. Few of these yeast producing organisms are normally found in the vagina. However, when too many grow and disturb the natural balance, the vagina wall becomes irritated or inflamed. This can also create a thick, white vaginal discharge and itching.
Trichomoniasis is the most prevalent curable sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. It is caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis that affects women more often than men. Notably, only about 30% of infected individuals may not know they have it because they do not have any symptoms.
While symptoms may be uncomfortable, vaginitis does not usually cause long-term effects. The condition can, however, increase a woman’s risk for STIs, affect pregnancy, or contribute to negative post-surgical outcomes. For these reasons, it can be a serious condition and individuals who suspect they have vaginitis should see their doctor.
Care for patients with vaginitis begins with the patient’s history and examination. Then diagnostic testing may help determine the best course of treatment.
Wet mount microscopy is commonly used for diagnosis of vaginitis. In this test, a doctor may add a drop of saline to a sample of vaginal fluid and then look at it under a microscope. Clue cells, yeast, or trichomonads on the slide can lead to a diagnosis. In some cases, doctors may culture the sample to see what microbes are growing.
A gynecologist may test the vaginal pH using pH paper or test strip. PH levels vary slightly depending on age, but between 3.8 and 4.2 is considered normal. Some stores and websites sell pH test kits for at-home testing. If your pH level is abnormal and you have symptoms, talk to your doctor.
Medications can treat certain infections that do not go away on their own or those that keep coming back, called recurring infections. Metronidazole, tinidazole, or clindamycin are some of the common prescriptions.
Now that you know what vaginitis is, you are likely wondering how to prevent it. Here are some steps you can take to prevent infection, maintain pH balance, and reduce the risk of vaginitis.
Practice good hygiene. Wash daily with water and a gentle soap such as Aveeno fragrance free, Dial basics, or Dove sensitive skin bath bar. Keep skin clean and dry, especially after the gym. Dry your vagina with tissue after urinating.
Choose cotton undergarments. Cotton wicks away moisture and promotes air flow better than other fibers. This means it doesn’t trap heat.
Avoid douches, perfumes, and strong soaps in the vagina. These can alter the pH and irritate the vagina.
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