Vaginitis

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Vaginitis, an inflammation of the lining of the vagina, affects as many as one-third of all women during their lifetime. It can affect all ages. Treatments vary since the causes of vaginal infections vary.

The normal vagina has a clear, cloudy or whitish discharge. Many organisms are in a delicate balance in the vagina.

Before a vaginal infection can be treated, it must be diagnosed. A sample of the discharge from you vagina needs to be looked at under a microscope. Additional tests may be needed. Treatment is recommended as soon as the diagnosis is made.

Things that can affect the normal balance

Types of infections

Preventing Infections

Additional Resources

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Things that can affect the normal balance are:

antibiotics
changes in hormone levels through pregnancy, breast-feeding, menopause, and some birth control pills
douches
spermacides
sexual intercourse
sexually transmitted diseases

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Types of Common Vaginal Infections

Type	Cause	Symptoms	Treatment
Yeast Infection	fungus: Candida A small amount of Candida albicans occurs naturally in the vagina	Itching, burning of the vagina and vulva; cottage cheese-like or thick white discharge. You may have no symptoms	You can use over-the counter medications but there are times you should see your care giver. Usually your partner does not need to be treated. You may also be treated with a one time dose of oral medication.
Bacterial Vaginosis	Overgrowth of naturally occurring vaginal bacteria	Discharge with a fishy odor, which is stronger during your period and after sex. May have itching, dull-gray colored discharge	Two antibiotics can be used: metronidazole (vaginally or orally) and clindamycin (vaginally or orally). May require long-term or repeat treatments. Metronidazole is most commonly used. Your partner may need to be treated if you get recurrent infections.
Trichomoniasis	Sexually transmitted parasite	Yellow-gray or green discharge, burning, itching, fishy odor, redness and swelling can occur. Occasional pain with urination.	Usually a single dose of metronidazole by mouth is given for you and your partner. Both of you must be treated AT THE SAME TIME.
Atrophic vaginitis	Decreased amounts of estrogen. Can occur during menopause, breast-feeding	Vaginal dryness, burning	Vaginal or oral estrogen; water soluble lubricant if estrogen cannot be taken
Allergic Vaginitis	Allergic reaction to spermacides and more rarely, latex	Burning, redness, swelling, pain with urination	Stop using spermacides and/or latex. See your care giver.

See your care giver if:

This is your first yeast infection
Your symptoms do not go away after ONE treatment - you may NOT have a yeast infection and continued use of OTC medications can mask a more serious problem. OTC drugs do not cure ALL yeast infections
You have a yellow or green discharge
You have been exposed to an STD

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Preventing Vaginal Infections

Avoid feminine hygiene sprays, deodorant tampons, and douching
Clean your diaphragm, cervical cap, and spermacides applicators thoroughly in warm soapy water and dry. Use cornstarch on your diaphragm and cervical cap lightly
Use condoms
If you are prone to frequent infections, ecchinacea with golden seal, acidophilus, and a mild vinegar and water douche after your per may help prevent occurrences. If you have to take antibiotics, use yeast medications while taking them if you get frequent yeast infections

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES THAT MAY HELP:

	Yeast Infection
	Bacterial Vaginosis
	Trichomoniasis

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