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Comprehensive Information, Resources, and Support on Vaginitis
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina. Vaginal thrush is a common condition caused by a yeast infection in the vagina and surrounding area.
Vaginitis is the inflammation or infection of the vagina. Bacteria, yeast, viruses, chemicals in creams or even clothing can cause vaginitis. Main types of vaginitis are atrophic vaginitis which results in thinning of endothelium (lining of the vagina) due to lower levels of estrogen during menopause and leads to inflammation. Bacterial vaginosis occurs due overgrowth of normal bacteria in the vagina such as lactobacilli. Trichomonas vaginalis is caused by a sexually transmitted, single-celled protozoan parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis which also infects other parts of the urogenital tract, including the urethra, where urine leaves the body. Candida albicans is also a type of vaginitis in which yeast causes a fungal infection.
Vaginal infection and causative agents of vulvovaginitis: gardnerella (bacterium), candida (fungal), trichomonas (protozoan parasite).
Vaginal yeast infection occurs due to excessive growth of Candida. It is also known as candidiasis, and is a common female condition. Common symptoms are vaginal itching, swelling around the vagina, burning during urination or sex, pain during sex, redness and rashes. There are multiple reasons for a vaginal yeast infection such as hormonal imbalance, antibiotics, weak immune system, uncontrolled diabetes, etc. Women and girls of all ages can get vaginal yeast infections. Antifungal over the counter medicines and creams or ointments can effectively treat such yeast infections.
Treatment depends on the cause of vaginitis. The treatment includes use of low-potency topical steroids which are applied to the skin and using oral antibiotics, antifungals, or antibacterial creams. Antifungal or antibiotic drugs treat vaginitis effectively. Bacterial vaginitis (BV) is treated with antibiotics, such as metronidazole (Flagyl), or clindamycin. Common medications to treat a fungal infection include butoconazole and clotrimazole. For severe irritation, cortisone cream is recommended. Antihistamines are used if inflammation appears to stem due to allergic reaction. Topical estrogen cream is suggested when vaginitis is due to low estrogen levels. There are some other treatment options for treating different conditions of vaginitis.
The female reproductive system is quite complicated but fascinating. It has the capability to function with almost every other body system for the purpose of reproduction. The female reproductive organs can be subdivided into the internal and external genitalia (as showsn in the image). Vaginitis is the infection of vagina in females.
Inflammation of the vagina due to infection is termed as vaginitis. Vaginal health is an important part of a woman’s overall health. Taking care of vulva and vagina helps to prevent infections and discomfort. Vaginal problems can affect your fertility, causes stress, relationship problems and impacts self-confidence. There are several factors that affect a healthy vagina such as unprotected sex, over-use of birth control and feminine-hygiene products, psychological or hormonal imbalance, etc. With swelling, a person might feel vaginal pain or discomfort, itchiness, fluid discharge, etc during vaginal infection.