Inflammation or irritation of the vagina that can result in symptoms such as vaginal discharge, itching, burning, or discomfort. It is a common condition that can be caused by various factors, including infections, hormonal changes, or irritants.
Causes:
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Often caused by infections, including bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections (such as Candida), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.
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Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, can affect the vaginal environment and increase the risk of developing vaginitis.
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Exposure to irritants such as douches, perfumed soaps or lotions, feminine hygiene products, or certain types of clothing (such as tight-fitting or synthetic underwear) can irritate the vaginal tissues and lead to inflammation.
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Some women may experience vaginitis symptoms as a result of an allergic reaction to products such as latex condoms, spermicides, or topical medications.
Symptoms:
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It can vary depending on the underlying cause but may include abnormal vaginal discharge (which may be thick, thin, white, yellow, or green in color and may have a foul odor), itching or irritation of the vaginal area, burning or discomfort during urination, pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, and redness or swelling of the vulva (external genitalia).
Diagnostic:
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Vaginitis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The healthcare provider may perform a pelvic examination to assess the vaginal tissues and collect samples of vaginal discharge for testing, such as microscopy, pH testing, or cultures to identify the underlying cause of the infection.
Treatment:
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For infections, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, antifungal medications or antibiotics may be prescribed, respectively. Treatment may also include lifestyle modifications (such as avoiding irritants) or hormonal therapies to address hormonal imbalances.