What is vaginitis?
Vaginitis is a term used to describe conditions that cause irritation, inflammation or infection of the vagina, which can affect women throughout their lives. Vaginitis symptoms, including itching, burning, painful urination, vaginal discharge and pain during sex (dyspareunia).
You shouldn’t feel embarrassed about discussing these symptoms with your provider. Vaginitis is very common, and there are many options for treating it.
What are the different types of vaginitis?
There are many different types of vaginitis. The most common include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, trichomoniasis, non-infectious vaginitis and vaginal atrophy. You can also get vaginitis from an allergic reaction to perfumed soaps, laundry detergents and even your partner’s semen.
Vaginitis symptoms
Symptoms of vaginitis vary according to the type you have, and some may not cause any symptoms at all. Keep in mind it’s also possible to have more than one type of vaginitis at the same time.
Common vaginitis symptoms include:
- Changes in color, texture or smell of your vaginal discharge
- Vaginal itching, irritation or swelling
- Discomfort or pain when you urinate
- Frequent urination
- Discomfort or pain during sex or when inserting tampons
- Light vaginal bleeding not related to your period
When to see a doctor
All forms of vaginitis can be treated, so visit your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms. Treating these conditions means you can find relief from your symptoms, and it can prevent the conditions from coming back or from causing complications if you’re pregnant.
What causes vaginitis?
The causes of vaginitis vary depending on the specific type you have. The most common causes of vaginitis include:
- Infections: Sexually transmitted infections occur when parasites, bacteria and viruses that cause infection spread through sexual contact. These infections can cause vaginitis.
- Lack of estrogen: Low estrogen levels, most commonly caused by breastfeeding, menopause or removal of the ovaries, can cause vaginal atrophy, a form of vaginitis.
- Vaginal sex: Sexual activity can cause vaginitis by leading to changes in the balance of yeast and bacteria in your vagina. It’s also possible to have an allergic reaction to your partner’s semen or to experience irritation from friction, lubricants or condoms.
- Allergies and irritants: Chemical irritants and fragrances in personal hygiene products like soaps, detergents and fabric softeners can cause vaginitis, as can spermicides.
- Change in hormone levels: During hormonal transitions like pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause, changes in your body’s hormone levels can cause changes to your vagina that make vaginitis more likely to occur.
How is vaginitis diagnosed?
Your provider will take a thorough medical history, perform a physical exam and perform a pelvic exam. Be sure to inform them of any history of STIs.
During the pelvic exam, your provider may swab the inside of your vagina to collect a sample of discharge, which will be sent to a lab for infection testing. Additionally, your provider may check the pH levels of your vaginal fluid to aid in the diagnosis.
Some providers may ask you to avoid sex or inserting anything into your vagina for at least 24 hours before your appointment.
Vaginitis treatment
Many women can find relief from vaginitis with over-the-counter products, antibiotics and other therapies.
How can I prevent vaginitis?
There are many ways to prevent bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
- Wear dry, breathable clothing: Yeast can grow in warm, damp environments. Cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing help keep you dry and cool, so opt for those over synthetic underwear and tight pants. Also, change out of sweaty or wet clothing, such as bathing suits, as soon as possible.
- Be selective with your personal care products: Avoid using scented tampons, pads, vaginal deodorants and perfumed feminine hygiene products. Stop using perfumed bath products, laundry items or scented/colored toilet paper if they irritate your skin. Consult your doctor if you're concerned about vaginal odor.
- Don’t douche: Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the healthy balance of bacteria in your vagina and lead to infection. Additionally, douching can mask an existing infection.
- Ask your provider about the benefits of taking hormones: If you’re approaching menopause or have low estrogen levels, ask your provider about the benefits of using vaginal hormone pills or creams to keep your vagina lubricated and healthy.
- Get regular screenings: Maintaining good health habits is important. Have regular gynecologic exams, including pap smears for cervical cancer, as recommended by your provider. If you have multiple sexual partners, request STI screenings.
Find specialized care for vaginitis
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