Vaginitis

There are several conditions that can cause inflammation of the vagina or vaginitis. This inflammation is typically caused by an infection or an imbalance in the normal bacteria of the vagina. This condition can cause the symptoms of vaginal itching or irritation, pain when urinating, vaginal bleeding which is light, vaginal discharge with a change in color and an unpleasant odor, pain during intercourse, or pain when urinating. There are several types of treatment that are used for vaginitis depending on the type of vaginits a patient has.   

Types of Vaginitis 

The most common types of vaginitis include bacterial vaginosis which caused by an overgrowth of the normal bacteria in the vagina resulting in an imbalance. Yeast infections caused by the fungus Candida albicans is also another common cause of vaginitis. Trichomoniasis which is caused by a parasite can also cause vaginitis and is typically acquired through sexual intercourse.

Atrophic vaginitis is a condition that is typically caused by menopause due to lower levels of estrogen and can cause the symptoms of pain, burning, and itching. Noninfectious vaginitis is caused by the usage of feminine products including douches, vaginal sprays, scented detergents, perfumed soaps, and spermicides, or other substances that can irritate the vaginal area. 

Common Treatments for Vaginitis 

Treatment for vaginitis primarily depends upon what type of vaginitis a patient has. For bacterial vaginitis  metronidazole or clindamycin may be prescribed which are used to treat bacterial infections. The typical treatment for a yeast infection is antibiotic creams or suppositories; however, a yeast infection is also sometimes treated with an antifungal medication that is taken orally.

Trichomoniasis may also be treated with metronidazole or a tinidazole which can be used to treat parasitic infections. For women experiencing vaginitis due to menopause, medications containing estrogen may be prescribed in the form of creams, tablets, or a vaginal ring. The recommend form of treatment for noninfectious vagintis is avoidance of the product that is causing the condition. 

Preventing Vaginitis 

Proper hygiene can prevent the occurrence of vaginitis. Avoid the use perfumed soaps or antibacterial and deodorant soaps in the genital area. After washing the genital area with mild soap and water, ensure that it is rinsed and dried thoroughly. Women should always avoid douching unless recommended by a physician. Sanitary napkins or tampons that are scented should also be avoided as they can irradiate the vaginal area and cause vaginitis.

After using the toilet it is essential to always wipe from front to back to avoid vaginitis as well as urinary tract infections. The usage of male latex condoms can prevent sexually transmitted diseases that can cause vaginits. While vaginitis usually doesn't cause any serious complications, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with this condition you should contact your physician for a medical evaluation.