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Vaginitis

Also indexed as:Atrophic Vaginitis, Bacterial Vaginosis, Gardnerella Infection, Hormone-Related Vaginitis, Irritant Vaginitis, Trichomoniasis, Vulvovaginitis
Soothe the discomfort of vaginitis and get back to enjoying life. First, uncover the cause. Then control the irritating symptoms. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
Vaginitis: Main Image

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About This Condition

Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina.

Vaginitis is responsible for an estimated 10% of all visits by women to their doctors. The three general causes of vaginitis are hormonal imbalance, irritation, and infection. Hormone-related vaginitis includes the atrophic vaginitis generally found in postmenopausal or postpartum women and, occasionally, in young girls before puberty. Irritant vaginitis can result from allergies or irritating substances. Infectious vaginitis is most common in reproductive-age women and is generally caused by one of three types of infections: bacterial vaginosis (BV), candidiasis (yeast infection), or trichomoniasis. A healthcare professional should be consulted for the diagnosis and treatment of any vaginal infection.

Although it is a type of vaginitis, yeast infection is not discussed on this page. For specific information on yeast infections (i.e., vaginitis caused by Candida albicans), see the yeast infections article.

Symptoms

Hormone-related vaginitis is marked by dryness, irritation, thinning of the vaginal mucous membranes and painful intercourse. Irritant vaginitis is characterised by itching and soreness. Infectious vaginitis also itches and typically includes vaginal discharge that varies in colour, consistency, and odour, depending upon the infectious organism. Discharge may range from scant to thick and white and may or may not be accompanied by a strong odour. Symptoms are often worse immediately after intercourse or the menstrual period.

Healthy Lifestyle Tips

For irritant vaginitis, minimising friction and reducing exposure to perfumes, chemicals, irritating lubricants, and spermicides can be beneficial.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.