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Vaginitis


Vaginitis is an infection or inflammation of the vagina. Vaginitis is common and can affect women of all ages. Symptoms associated with this condition may include:

  • Itching or burning of the genital area
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Foul vaginal odor
  • Discomfort or burning when urinating
  • Pain or irritation with sexual intercourse

The cause is generally a change in the balance of vaginal bacteria or an infection. It can also be caused by an allergy, foreign body or sexually transmitted diseases. The most common types of vaginitis are:

  • Bacterial vaginosis, which results from overgrowth of one of several organisms normally present in your vagina 
  • Yeast infections, which are usually caused by a naturally occurring fungus called Candida albicans 
  • Trichomoniasis, which is caused by a parasite and is commonly transmitted by sexual intercourse 
  • Vaginal atrophy (atrophic vaginitis), which results from reduced estrogen levels after menopause 
  • Treatment depends on the type of vaginitis you have.

To diagnose your condition, our physician will conduct a complete review of the patient’s reproductive medical health history to see if you have a pattern of vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections, and conduct a physical examination. During the exam, a sample of cervical or vaginal discharge may be taken for laboratory analysis to help the physician determine what kind of vaginitis you have and the most effective treatment plan. Antibiotics and vaginal creams are the most common medications prescribed for vaginitis.