Vaginitis refers to a vaginal inflammation resulting with discharge, itching and pain.
A change in the balance of vaginal bacteria or an infection is usually the cause of vaginitis. Other causes are menopause and skin disorders.
The most common types of vaginitis are:
- Bacterial vaginosis- a result of an overgrowth of the bacteria naturally found in your vagina.
- Yeast infections - caused by the fungus Candida Albicans.
- Trichomoniasis - caused by a sexually transmitted parasite.
The most common signs and symptoms of vaginitis are:
- Any change in vaginal discharge features: color, odor or amount of discharge.
- Vaginal itching or irritation
- Pain during sex (dyspareunia)
- Painful and frequent urination
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
The following steps will most likely be part of vaginitis diagnosis process:
- Reviewing your medical history.
- Performing a pelvic exam.
- Collecting a sample of vaginal discharge for lab testing.
- Performing vaginal pH testing.
Treatment for vaginitis varies depending on the cause.
- Bacterial vaginosis - antibiotics such as metronidazole tablets (Flagyl) are the treatment for this type of vaginitis.
- Yeast infections - usually treated with an over-the-counter antifungal cream or suppository.
- Trichomoniasis - metronidazole (Flagyl) or tinidazole (Tindamax) tablets.
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause - in the form of vaginal creams, tablets or rings.
☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.
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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:
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