Vaginitis
How many types of vaginitis are there? Everything about the causes, symptoms, and most effective treatments to control it.
Symptoms and Causes
Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can be caused by hormonal changes, an infection, or irritation. Sometimes, the vulva is also affected, and it is then referred to as vulvovaginitis.
This disease is common among women of reproductive age and is usually due to a change in the balance of microorganisms in the vagina, mainly bacteria and yeasts. The most common types of vaginitis are:
- Bacterial vaginosis: caused by an imbalance in the vaginal flora due to an increase in the number of bacteria.
- Vaginal candidiasis: caused by an increase in the number of Candida albicans fungi.
- Trichomoniasis: a sexually transmitted disease caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite.
- Non-infectious vaginitis: the swelling is not caused by an infection, but is usually due to an allergic reaction or irritation.
- Viral vaginitis: usually occurs due to the presence of a virus in the vagina, typically the human papillomavirus (HPV) or herpes simplex virus.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of vaginitis usually include:
- Vaginal irritation and itching.
- Dyspareunia (pain during intercourse).
- Painful urination.
- Changes in the color, smell, or amount of vaginal discharge.
- Light vaginal bleeding.
Changes in vaginal fluids can help determine the type of vaginitis a person has, as generally:
- Bacterial vaginosis causes a grayish discharge with an unpleasant odor.
- Candidiasis causes a white, thick discharge with no odor.
- Trichomoniasis causes a yellow-green, sometimes foamy discharge.
Causes
Each type of vaginitis has a different cause:
- Bacterial vaginosis: the reason for the alteration in the balance of vaginal bacteria is unknown.
- Vaginal candidiasis: hormonal changes, a weakened immune system, or high blood sugar levels can increase the amount of fungi in the vagina.
- Trichomoniasis: transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person.
- Non-infectious vaginitis: often caused by certain components in toilet paper, tampons, soaps, or any other item that comes into contact with the vagina.
- Viral vaginitis: caused by infection with a virus.
Risk Factors
Some of the factors that increase the risk of developing vaginitis include:
- Hormonal changes such as menopause, pregnancy, or the use of oral contraceptives.
- Risky sexual practices.
- Antibiotic or steroid medications.
- Uncontrolled diabetes.
- Spermicides, aerosols, bubble baths, deodorants, or vaginal douches.
- Tight or damp underwear.
Complications
In most cases, vaginitis does not cause serious complications. However, bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, developing pelvic inflammatory disease, or having a preterm birth if pregnant. Trichomoniasis, on the other hand, can facilitate the transmission of HIV.
Prevention
The best way to prevent vaginitis is by adopting habits such as:
- Wearing cotton, non-tight underwear.
- Keeping the area dry after bathing or exercising.
- Drying the vulva and always cleaning the anus from front to back to prevent the entry of fecal bacteria into the vagina.
- Avoiding scented pads, tampons, or soaps.
- Avoiding vaginal douching.
- Practicing safe sex.
Which doctor treats vaginitis?
Vaginitis is treated in the obstetrics and gynecology consultation.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of vaginitis is mainly based on:
- Reviewing the medical history.
- Assessing the symptoms.
- Examining the vagina and vulva during a pelvic exam.
To determine the type of vaginitis, a sample of cervical tissue or vaginal discharge (vaginal exudate) is analyzed in a laboratory.
Treatment
Since the nature of these diseases is very different, the treatment will depend on the type of vaginitis developed:
- Bacterial vaginosis responds well to oral, topical, or suppository antibiotics.
- Vaginal candidiasis is typically treated with antifungal creams, ointments, or suppositories.
- Trichomoniasis requires antibiotic treatment, and it is recommended to abstain from sexual activity until the treatment is completed.
- Non-infectious vaginitis resolves once the irritant is stopped. Soothing creams or moisturizing balms can be used to relieve symptoms.
- Viral vaginitis cannot be cured with specific treatment, but antiviral medications reduce symptoms.
