What Is Vaginitis?
Vaginal inflammation is referred to as vaginitis. Itching, discomfort, and unusual discharge are all possible side effects. Vaginitis is usually caused by an infection or a disturbance in the natural balance of bacteria in a woman’s vagina. It’s a frequent disease that affects women of all ages.
According to studies, at least 40% of the time, women misdiagnose the sort of vaginitis they are experiencing; as a result, it is critical to see a specialist for vaginitis diagnosis and treatment.
Vaginitis comes in a variety of forms.
Bacterial vaginosis is the most frequent kind of vaginitis. An overpopulation of bacteria normally seen in the vaginal area disrupts the natural equilibrium of germs in the vaginal area. Bacterial vaginosis can generate a thin, milky discharge with a “fishy” odour from the vaginal area.
Many women with bacterial vaginosis experience no symptoms and are only diagnosed during a routine gynecologic exam.
Infections caused by yeast.
When too much of the normally occurring candida fungus grows in the vaginal area, it causes infection. In around 10% of cases, yeast infections cause a thick, white, odourless vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese. Yeast infections frequently cause itching and redness in the vagina and vulva (the area outside the vagina).
Trichomoniasis.
A parasite-borne sexually transmitted disease. It can cause vaginal burning, vulva and vaginal pain, a frothy, greenish-yellow discharge, and burning while urinating.
However, not all women will show signs or symptoms. Vaginitis can be spread through sexual contact. Hence, the woman’s sexual partner must be treated at the same time.
Atrophic vaginitis
This is a type of Vaginitis that occur when hormone levels are low, such as during breastfeeding or after menopause, this condition occurs. Itching, burning, and pain may occur when the vaginal tissues become thinner and drier.
What Causes Vaginitis?
Every day, a woman’s vagina generates a little amount of clear or cloudy white fluid, known as discharge, which is expelled from the body.
The tissue is kept wet and healthy by this outflow. Throughout the menstrual cycle, the volume and colour of vaginal discharge will fluctuate.
Natural Balance Disturbance
Many organisms, including bacteria and yeast, are found in the vaginal canal and are necessary for its normal operation. Vaginitis is caused by a disruption in the natural balance of yeast or bacteria.
- Antibiotics
- Changes in hormone levels due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause.
- Douching
- Spermicides
- Sexual intercourse
- Infection is among the factors that can cause an imbalance.
The lining of the vaginal canal may become irritated if the natural equilibrium is disrupted.
What Are the Symptoms of Vaginitis?
- Vaginal itching or irritation
- Pain during intercourse
- Burning during urination
- Light vaginal bleeding
- While symptoms vary depending on what is causing the infection or inflammation, in general, vaginitis symptoms may include:
- Change in colour, odour, or amount of discharge.
- Women with vaginitis may experience no symptoms at all.
Diagnosis
- A complete medical history and a detailed explanation of your symptoms are the first steps in diagnosing you.
- Pelvic exam and a vaginal discharge sample is obtained and examined to confirm vaginitis and define the type, allowing for suitable treatment.
- For reliable test results, you are advised to refrain from douching, sexual intercourse, or the use of any vaginal drugs prior to your appointment.
Prevention?
There are several things you may do to lower your chances of acquiring vaginitis, including:
- Thoroughly clean diaphragms, cervical caps, and spermicide applicators after each use.
- Use condoms during sex.
- If you get yeast infections frequently, avoid wearing clothing that holds in heat and moisture, such as pantyhose without a cotton lining, nylon panties, or tight jeans.
Treatment?
The type of vaginitis determines the treatment. The following are some treatment options:
Vaginosis is caused by bacteria. Antibiotics on prescription or vaginal gels/creams
Infections caused by yeast.
The oral antifungal medication or antifungal cream or suppository is put into the vaginal canal. While over-the-counter remedies are more convenient and less expensive than going to the doctor, it’s best to consult a doctor the first time you experience symptoms to guarantee correct diagnosis and treatment.
Trichomoniasis.
Antibiotics are prescribed for the patient and her sexual partner; sexual contact should be avoided until the treatment is completed.
Atrophic vaginitis
Atrophic vaginitis is a type of vaginal atrophic vaginitis Prescription-only estrogen creams, pills, or rings are available.
Various additional medicines are utilized in the treatment of rare kinds of vaginitis. Even if the symptoms go away before the treatment is finished, all therapies should be followed exactly as directed by your physician.
