Related topics about disorders of the vulva: lichen sclerosus  uterine fibroids vaginal discharge vaginitis vulvodynia vulvar cysts |
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What are the symptoms of vaginitis?
The common symptoms of vaginitis are itching, burning, and vaginal discharge that is different from the normal secretions. The itching and burning can be inside the vagina or on the skin or vulva just outside the vagina. Discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse may also occur. If everyone with vaginitis had exactly these symptoms, then the diagnosis would be fairly simple. However, it is important to realize that as many as 4 out of every 10 women with vaginitis
may not have these typical symptoms. Frequently, a routine gynecologic exam will confirm vaginitis even if symptoms are not present. For this reason, it is important to have a gynecologic exam at regular intervals.
When infection is the cause of vaginitis, the most common symptom is an abnormal vaginal discharge. A discharge caused by a bacterial infection is usually white, grey, or yellowish and has a foul odor. The vulva feels slightly irritated and itchy. A yeast infection has a thick, cottage-cheese like discharge, but no odor. It causes moderate to severe itching and burning of the vulva and vagina. Another type of discharge is a frothy white, greyish-green, or yellowish color and is caused by a tiny organism called Trichomonas vaginalis. This discharge may have a foul odor and causes severe itching. When vaginitis is caused by a cancer of the vagina, cervix, or uterine lining, the discharge is usually watery and may contain blood. Symptoms of vaginitis also include vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Pain in the lower abdomen or irregular bleeding are signs of a more serious problem and you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Also, some sexually transmitted diseases have symptoms similar to vaginitis. If you think you might be at risk for a sexually transmitted disease and you have any of these symptoms, you should also see your doctor as soon as possible.
Hormone-related vaginitis is marked by dryness, irritation, thinning of the vaginal mucous membranes and painful intercourse. Irritant vaginitis is characterized by itching and soreness. Infectious vaginitis also itches and typically includes vaginal discharge that varies in color, consistency, and odor, depending upon the infectious organism. Discharge may range from scant to thick and white and may or may not be accompanied by a strong odor. Symptoms are often worse immediately after intercourse or the menstrual period. |
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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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