Vaginitis: What You Need to Know

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Vaginitis is a common condition that affects many women at some point in their lives. It is an inflammation or infection of the vagina or vulva, the external female genitalia. Vaginitis can cause symptoms such as discharge, itching, pain, odour, and bleeding. It can also increase the risk of complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and preterm labour. Therefore, it is important to know the causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment of vaginitis.

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Causes and types of vaginitis

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Vaginitis can be caused by different factors that disrupt the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. These factors include:

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Bacterial vaginosis (BV): This is the most common type of vaginitis in women of reproductive age. It occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria that normally live in the vagina, such as Gardnerella vaginalis. BV can cause a greyish-white, fishy-smelling discharge that may be more noticeable after sex.

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Yeast infection: This is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans, which normally lives in small amounts in the vagina. Yeast infection can cause a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge and intense itching. It can be triggered by factors such as antibiotics, diabetes, pregnancy, hormonal changes, or a weakened immune system.

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Trichomoniasis: This is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It can cause a greenish-yellow, frothy discharge with a foul odour, as well as pain during urination and sex. It can also increase the risk of getting or spreading other STIs, such as HIV.

Other STIs: Some STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and herpes, can also cause vaginitis symptoms, such as discharge, pain, bleeding, and ulcers. These infections can have serious consequences for your reproductive health if left untreated.

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Non-infectious vaginitis: This is caused by irritation or allergy to products or substances that come in contact with the vagina or vulva, such as soap, perfume, detergent, spermicide, latex, or tampons. It can cause redness, swelling, itching, and burning.

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Atrophic vaginitis: This is caused by low oestrogen levels due to menopause or other conditions that affect hormone production. Oestrogen helps keep the vaginal tissues moist and elastic. Without enough oestrogen, the tissues become thin and dry, leading to inflammation and discomfort.

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Diagnosis and treatment of vaginitis

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If you have any symptoms of vaginitis, you should see your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Your provider will perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of your vaginal discharge for testing. Depending on the type and cause of your vaginitis, you may need different treatments:

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• BV: This is usually treated with antibiotics that you take orally or apply inside your vagina.

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• Yeast infection: This is usually treated with antifungal medication that you take orally or apply inside your vagina.

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• Trichomoniasis: This is usually treated with antibiotics that you take orally. Your sexual partner(s) should also be treated to prevent reinfection.

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• Other STIs: These are usually treated with antibiotics or antiviral medication that you take orally or inject into your muscles. You should also get tested for other STIs and inform your sexual partner(s) so they can get tested and treated too.
  
  
• Non-infectious vaginitis: This is usually treated by avoiding or removing the source of irritation or allergy. You may also use soothing creams or ointments to relieve your symptoms.

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• Atrophic vaginitis: This is usually treated with oestrogen therapy that you apply inside your vagina or take orally or through patches or injections.

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Prevention of vaginitis

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You can reduce your risk of getting vaginitis by following these tips:

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• Practise safe sex by using condoms and limiting your number of sexual partners.
• Maintain good hygiene by washing your genital area with water only or mild soap and rinsing well.
• Avoid douching, which can alter the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in your vagina.
• Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
• Change your tampons or pads frequently during your period.
• Eat a balanced diet and take probiotics to support your immune system and vaginal health.

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Conclusion

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Vaginitis is not a life-threatening condition, but it can affect your quality of life and your reproductive health. If you have any symptoms of vaginitis, do not ignore them or try to treat them yourself. Seek medical attention and follow the prescribed treatment to clear the infection and prevent complications.

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Sources:

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Mayo Clinic. (2020). Vaginitis - Symptoms & causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vaginitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354707

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Cleveland Clinic. (2019). Vaginitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9131-vaginitis

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MSD Manual. (2020). Overview of Vaginitis (Vaginal Infection or Inflammation). Retrieved from https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/women-s-health-issues/vaginitis,-cervicitis,-and-pelvic-inflammatory-disease/overview-of-vaginitis-vaginal-infection-or-inflammation