Most women experience itching, discomfort, swelling, an unusual discharge, and pain down there at some point. These often indicate vaginitis. The most common cause of vaginitis is bacterial infection, but yeast infection and certain sexually transmitted infections can also be the culprits. If you notice the above symptoms and feel any unusual change in your vaginal health, visit an obstetrician-gynecologist in Navi Mumbai to diagnose the underlying cause. In the meantime,
let’s explore the most common cause of vaginitis.
i) Bacterial Vaginosis
There’s usually a mix of good and bad bacteria, with good bacteria keeping the vaginal environment slightly acidic. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) occurs when there’s an increased amount of bad bacteria in your vagina.
a) BV Causes:
BV can be linked to douching and using scented products, which can affect the pH balance of your vagina. It’s also more common in women with multiple sexual partners, as it increases the risk of bacteria entering your vagina.
b) BV Symptoms:
If there’s an overgrowth of the bad bacteria, you might develop bacterial vaginosis, causing grayish discharge, a fishy odor, vaginal itching, and discomfort.
c) BV Treatment:
Treatment includes an antibiotic course. Make sure you take the pills even if the symptoms improve, as there’s a risk of recurrence.
ii) Yeast Infections
The overgrowth of Candida albicans — a fungus that naturally thrives in your vagina — can cause vaginitis. It’s also found in other moist areas of your body and is also a common reason for diaper rash in babies.
d) Yeast Infection Causes:
Yeast infection occurs because of hormonal changes and increased blood glucose levels in people who are taking antibiotics. Antibiotics kill good bacteria, which are responsible for keeping Candida albicans in check.
e) Yeast Infection Symptoms:
Symptoms include itching and redness around the vulva with thick discharge.
f) Yeast Infection Treatment:
Antifungal creams and oral medication can help clear yeast infections. You can also take probiotic supplements to restore a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria. Lifestyle changes, like avoiding damp and tight clothing, can also help.
iii) Trichomoniasis
Trichomonas vaginalis is transmitted through sexual intercourse with an infected partner. The infection affects the urinary tract system in men and the vagina in women.
g) Trichomoniasis Symptoms:
Symptoms may vary from woman to woman, but most infected people experience itching, greenish-yellow discharge, and pain during urination and intercourse.
h) Trichomoniasis Treatment:
Oral antibiotics can help clear Trichomoniasis. Avoid sexual activity until it’s completely cleared.
iv) Other Less Common Causes
Vaginitis is also linked to causes other than bacteria, parasitic, and fungal infections. Let’s discuss a few less common yet possible causes:
i) Allergic Reaction:
Scented products, such as soaps and creams, can cause an allergic reaction or may simply irritate your vagina, causing a burning sensation and redness. The sensitive skin of your vagina can also become swollen and red from the laundry detergents and condoms.
j) Vaginal Atrophy:
Women approaching menopause or post-menopausal women are at increased risk of vaginal atrophy due to a decreased production of estrogen. Your vaginal walls become thin and dry without estrogen, increasing the risk of vaginitis. Your gynecologist will run tests to diagnose the cause and offer the most appropriate vaginitis treatment in Navi Mumbai. See your doctor if you notice the above symptoms. Stay healthy!!