Related topics about disorders of the vulva: lichen sclerosus  uterine fibroids vaginal discharge vaginitis vulvodynia vulvar cysts |
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What is bacterial vaginitis?
While yeast infections are the most commonly discussed vaginal infection, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is actually the most common type of vaginitis in females of reproductive age. This infection is caused by a bacteria, not yeast. With a bacterial vaginosis infection, certain species of normal vaginal bacteria grow out of control and trigger inflammation. The cause of bacterial vaginosis is not known. Bacterial vaginitis results in a vaginal discharge.
The discharge is usually thin and milky and is sometimes described as having a "fishy" odor. This odor may become more noticeable after intercourse. Since bacterial vaginitis is caused by bacteria, treatment is usually with antibiotics.
Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotic vaginal creams or suppositories and oral antibiotics.
Males may harbor these bacteria with no obvious symptoms. Check with your clinician to find out if your partner should also be treated. Condoms are recommended during intercourse to prevent reinfection and both partners should be reexamined after treatment. |
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More information on vaginitis
What is vaginitis? - Vulvovaginitis refers to inflammation of both the vagina and vulva, the outer area of labial and skin surrounding the vagina.
What are the symptoms of vaginitis? - The common symptoms of vaginitis are itching, burning, and vaginal discharge that is different from the normal secretions.
What are the most common types of vaginitis? - The most common types of vaginitis include candida or yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis vaginitis, chlamydia, gonococcal vaginitis, viral vaginitis, and noninfectious vaginitis.
What causes vaginitis? - Bacteria, yeast, viruses, or chemicals in creams or sprays, can cause vaginitis.
What is bacterial vaginosis? - Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is actually the most common type of vaginitis in females of reproductive age.
What is trichomoniasis? - Trichomonas, commonly called trick, is caused by a single-celled organism tht is a member of the protozoa family of microorganisms.
What is chlamydia? - Chlamydia, caused by the bacterium chlamydia trachomatis, exists in a number of different strains.
What is viral vaginitis? - Viruses are a common cause of vaginitis, with most being spread through sexual contact.
What is noninfectious vaginitis? - Noninfectious vaginitis usually refers to vaginal irritation without an infection being present.
What are candida or yeast infections? - Yeast infections of the vagina are what most women think of when they hear the term vaginitis.
How is vaginitis diagnosed? - Vaginitis is easily diagnosed by your health care provider. A small amount of vaginal discharge will be evaluated.
What is the treatment to cure vaginitis? - Candida vaginitis can be treated with antifungal medications that are administered directly into the vagina as tablets, creams, ointments or suppositories. |
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