Vaginitis

What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis generally refers to inflammation in the vagina. The inflammation is often (but not always) due to an infection, but there are different types of vaginitis, including:

• Yeast infections - an overgrowth of fungal organisms, usually Candida albicans
• Bacterial vaginosis - an overgrowth of the bacteria naturally found in the vagina
• Trichomoniasis - a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite (Trichomonas vaginalis)
• Atrophic vaginitis - develops when vaginal tissues weaken, thin, and become inflamed after menopause

What causes vaginitis?

The vagina is home to numerous bacteria and yeast. Like your gut, these microorganisms are beneficial and improve vaginal health as long as they remain balanced.

When the bacteria or yeast get unbalanced, the vaginal lining becomes inflamed, and an infection develops. Issues that upset the balance include:

• Antibiotics
• Hormonal changes (during pregnancy or menopause)
• Douching
• Spermicides
• Infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Hygiene products (vaginal sprays, bubble bath products, scented tampons, and others)

Using an intrauterine device (IUD) may also increase the risk of vaginitis.

What are the symptoms of vaginitis?

Most types of vaginitis cause:

• Changes in the amount, odor, or color of vaginal discharge
• Vaginal itching or irritation (often intense)
• Pain during sex
• Pain when urinating
• Vaginal spotting

You’ll have specific symptoms depending on the type of vaginitis. Here’s what to expect:

Yeast infections

Yeast infections cause severe itching and a thick, white discharge.

Bacterial vaginosis

You’ll likely have a foul-smelling (fish-like) grayish-white discharge if you have bacterial vaginosis.

Trichomoniasis

Trich typically causes a greenish-yellow discharge that may appear frothy.

Atrophic vaginitis

Atrophic vaginitis may cause a thin, yellow discharge. It’s also notorious for causing pain during sex, itching, and spotting (especially during or after sex).

How is vaginitis treated?

Your NewMed Immediate Care provider prescribes treatment based on the type:

• Yeast infections - antifungal medication taken orally or inserted into the vagina
• Bacterial vaginosis - antibiotics taken orally or inserted into the vagina
• Trichomoniasis - antifungal and/or antibiotics, such as metronidazole or tinidazole
• Atrophic vaginitis - estrogen cream placed in the vagina or hormone replacement therapy

You can purchase over-the-counter antifungal medications to treat a yeast infection. However, if this is your first encounter with vaginitis, you should see a NewMed Immediate Care provider. They will accurately diagnose the type and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you. 

Call the nearest office, walk in, or book online if you need relief from vaginitis symptoms.