Vaginitis is a word used to describe disorders that cause infection or inflammation ("itis" means inflammation) of the vagina. Vulvovaginitis refers to inflammation of both the vagina and vulva (the external female genitals).
These conditions can result from an infection caused by organisms such as bacteria, yeast, or viruses. Other causes can include irritation from chemicals in creams, sprays, or even clothes that are in contact with this area. In some cases, vaginitis results from organisms that are passed between sexual partners.
The symptoms are common, and most women will have at least one form of vaginitis in their lifetime. Even though the condition is common, however, many women know little about it. The term "
yeast infection" is what most women think of when they hear the word vaginitis. However, a
yeast infection is only one kind of vaginal infection.
Vaginitis can be caused by several different organisms, sometimes at the same time, as well as by hormonal changes,
allergies, or irritations.
Because there are so many causes, it is important to see your doctor or other healthcare professional if you think you have a vaginal infection so that the cause can be identified and the correct treatment can be prescribed.
Vaginitis can sometimes be a sign of other health problems. Knowing more about the signs and symptoms of this common condition will help you and your healthcare provider make a proper diagnosis.
Symptoms of vaginitis include itching and burning in or around the vagina. Other symptoms can include an abnormal discharge that may have an unpleasant odor. However, some women have no symptoms of an infection at all.
Vaginitis treatment requires an accurate diagnosis, since different types of vaginitis need different treatments. Once the cause is identified, proper treatment can begin.
Once started, the medication should be used exactly as your doctor prescribes in order to cure the vaginitis. The symptoms may go away before you finish the medication. Even so, you should complete the therapy to help ensure a cure.
Be sure to ask your healthcare provider any questions you might have about your treatment. Open communication and clear understanding can help you take an active role in maintaining your health.
Key points to keep in mind about vaginitis are as follows:
- Vaginitis is a medical term that describes an infection or irritation of the vagina and/or vulva by yeast, bacteria, viruses, other organisms, or chemical irritants.
- When present, the symptoms of different types of vaginitis can overlap, sometimes making diagnosis difficult. In addition, more than one cause of vaginitis can be present at the same time in the same woman.
- Good health habits are important. Have a complete gynecologic exam, including a Pap smear, at least every two years. If you have multiple sexual partners, you should request screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
- Proper diagnosis by your doctor or healthcare practitioner is the key to proper treatment. Yeast, bacteria, viruses, and other organisms each require a specific type of therapy. Using the wrong medication will not help and will only delay proper treatment.
- Not all vaginitis is caused by yeast. The use of a nonprescription medication or other treatment may make the proper diagnosis more difficult if yeast is not the cause of the infection.
- Some forms of vaginitis are sexually transmitted and can co-exist with other, more serious sexually transmitted diseases. The proper use of condoms can be helpful in preventing some forms of vaginitis.
- Follow your doctor's instructions exactly when treating your vaginal infection. If your symptoms do not clear completely, or if they recur, see your doctor or healthcare practitioner for further instructions.
