Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching and pain. The cause is usually a change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria or an infection.
The most common type of vaginitis are;
🔹️Bacterial vaginosis, which results from a change of the normal bacteria found in your vagina to overgrowth of other organisms
🔹️Yeast infections, which are usually caused by a naturally occurring fungus called Candida albicans
🔹️Trichomoniasis, which is caused by a parasite and is commonly transmitted as STD
🔶️Symptoms;
If you have vaginal discharge, the characteristics of the discharge might indicate the type of vaginitis you have.
Bacterial vaginosis. You might develop a grayish-white, foul-smelling discharge. The odor, often described as a fishy odor, itching and burning urination.
Yeast infection. The main symptom is itching, but you might have a white, thick discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
If left for long can cause cuts and ulcers with swelling and redness, burning irination is very common.
Trichomoniasis. An infection called trichomoniasis can cause a greenish-yellow, sometimes frothy discharge.
🔶️Risk factors
Factors that increase your risk of developing vaginitis include:
Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, birth control pills or menopause
Having a sexually transmitted infection
Medications, such as antibiotics and steroids
Use of spermicides for birth control
Uncontrolled diabetes
Use of hygiene products such as bubble bath, vaginal spray or vaginal deodorant
Douching
Wearing damp or tightfitting clothing
Using an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control 🔶️Prevention
Good hygiene may prevent some types of vaginitis from recurring and may relieve some symptoms:
Avoid baths, hot tubs and whirlpool spas.
Avoid irritants. These include scented tampons, pads, douches and scented soaps.
Don’t douche. Your vagina doesn’t require cleansing other than normal bathing. Repetitive douching disrupts the normal organisms that reside in the vagina and can actually increase your risk of vaginal infection.
This post is written for the #BlogchatterA2Z challenge. My theme is let’s debunk Common myths around women’s health.
Disclosure: The views expressed in the blog content are independent and unbiased views of solely the blogger.
DISCLAIMER: The content in this post is purely meant for educational purpose only and not to be substituted for professional medical advice. One should consult their healthcare provider for any health-related information.
A very informative post. Some things women just shy of sharing and suffer silently
Deepika Sharma