Vaginitis

What Is Vaginitis?

When the vagina becomes inflamed with vaginitis, it can result in symptoms such as itching, pain and abnormal discharge. Causes of vaginitis include bacterial infection, reduced estrogen levels due to menopause, and skin-related disorders. Other factors that can influence the health of your vagina and may contribute to vaginosis include your overall health, medication usage and personal hygiene.

Common types of vaginitis include:

• Bacterial vaginosis: Caused by an overgrowth of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina
• Yeast infections (Candida infection): Caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans
• Trichomoniasis: Caused by a parasite and is often spread through sexual contact
• Viral vaginitis: Caused by a virus such as herpes or human papilloma virus (HPV) and is often spread through sexual contact
• Noninfectious vaginitis: Caused by contact with an irritant or allergen through products such as douche products, soaps, sprays or deodorants

Who Is at Risk for Vaginitis?

Risk factors for vaginitis include:

• Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, birth control pills or menopause.
• Medications such as antibiotics and steroids.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Use of certain birth control methods including spermicides and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
• Using vaginal hygiene products such as deodorants or douches.
• Wearing damp or tight clothing.

Vaginitis Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of vaginitis depend on the cause and type of vaginitis. They can range from intense to barely noticeable and may include:

• Irritated or swollen vulva.
• Itching, burning or pain around vulva/vagina.
• Pain during sex.
• Burning sensation while urinating.
• Feeling the need to urinate more often than usual.
• Vaginal discharge that is abnormal in color or smell.

Vaginitis Diagnosis and Treatment

If you experience any of these unusual symptoms, it’s important to see your healthcare provider. Your provider will likely perform a physical and pelvic exam and ask questions about the symptoms you are experiencing. They may also take a vaginal fluid sample to check pH levels, as well as perform lab tests to diagnose the specific type of vaginitis.

The treatment plan depends on the type of vaginitis you are diagnosed with. For instance, with bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, your provider may prescribe oral antibiotics or a cream or gel that can be placed in the vagina. For yeast infections, your provider may recommend using an over-the-counter antifungal cream or suppository. For non-infectious vaginitis, your provider will work with you to help identify the irritant causing the inflammation so that you can avoid it.

While vaginitis may resolve on its own without treatment, it is still important to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment guidance from a healthcare provider. Depending on the type, vaginitis can put you at increased risk for STIs and can cause complications if you are pregnant. If vaginitis does not respond to treatment, gets worse, or reoccurs within a short period of time, follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Prevention

Hygiene strategies you can use to help prevent vaginitis from recurring include:

• Avoid irritants such as scented feminine hygiene products (e.g. tampons, sprays or deodorants), harsh soaps or bubble bath products.
• Avoid hot baths and hot tubs.
• Wipe from front to back.
• Practice safe sex (use condoms and limit sexual partners).
• Avoid wearing tight or damp clothing,
• Wear cotton underwear.