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Vaginitis: Symptoms, Causes And Prevention

When a woman experiences an irritation or inflammation of the vagina, this is referred to as vaginitis. Generally, vaginitis causes itching, burning and an abnormal vaginal discharge.

There are several known causes of vaginitis, including vaginal yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, Trichomoniasis and non-infectious vaginitis.  A vaginal yeast infection is probably the most common type of vaginitis.

There are many things women can do to avoid getting yeast infections and other forms of vaginitis

Yeast infections typically cause burning and itching in the vagina and around the vulva.  Women may experience an odd vaginal discharge that is thick and white and is often times described as being a cottage cheese-like consistency. 

Another common vaginal infection (possibly the most common) is bacterial vaginosis.  It’s very common among women of a reproductive age and is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria typically found in the vagina.  Bacterial vaginosis will usually cause a thin, milky discharge from the vagina that may be accompanied by a “fishy” odor.  Many women experience no symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, so it is sometimes only discovered during a routine checkup.

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a single-cell parasite.  It may cause vaginal itching, burning and soreness of the vagina and vulva.  It can also cause a burning sensation during urination.  Often times, women who have Trichomoniasis do not experience any symptoms.

Non-infectious vaginitis is a form of vaginitis that is generally caused by an allergic reaction or irritation from vaginal sprays, douches, spermicidal products, soaps, detergents or fabric softeners.  Non-infectious vaginitis may cause burning, itching or vaginal discharge even if there is no infection.

In order to properly cure vaginitis, it’s important to understand which form of vaginitis you have.  Sexually transmitted forms of vaginitis need to be treated by a healthcare professional.  Non-infectious vaginitis can be cured by simply discontinuing the use of the product that is causing the irritation. 

You can lower your risk of getting vaginitis by not wearing clothes which are tight and constricting in the crotch.  Avoid wearing pantyhose without a cotton lining in the crotch, nylon underwear and tight jeans.  All of these items hold heat and moisture. 

Don’t use douches or vaginal sprays.  Such items can kill the good bacteria and may cause irritation.  If you feel you have a vaginal infection, it’s important to make a doctor’s appointment and get checked out.  Your doctor will be able to tell you which kind of infection you have and how to best treat it.  Follow doctor guidelines and make sure you ask questions if you are unsure about anything.

Tags: recurring yeast infections, vaginal discharge, vaginal infection, vaginal irritation, vaginal itching, vaginitis, women’s health, yeast infections

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