Vaginitis - Know Your Stuff

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vaginal mucosa and frequently associated with an irritation or infection of the vulva leading to vulvovaginitis. It is a term for any infection or inflammation of the vagina. nnVaginitis is a very widespread problem among women. It may be asymptomatic, but usually leads to significant vaginal itching and irritation so that the patient self-medicates or seeks professional help. nnThe symptoms of vaginitis are irritation and/or itching of the genital region; inflammation (irritation, redness, and swelling (caused by the existence of additional immune cells) of the labia majora, labia minora, or perineal area; vaginal discharge; foul vaginal odor; discomfort or burning when urinating; and pain or irritation with sexual intercourse. nnThere are many different causes for vaginitis including infectious vaginitis which accounts for ninety percent of all cases. Another cause is diabetes because women who have diabetes develop infectious vaginitis more often than women who do not. nnThe most familiar form is the Candida or 'yeast' infection. It occurs when too much of the fungus Candida grows in the vagina. It is estimated that three quarters of women will have a yeast infection in their lifetime. Another cause is bacterial vaginosis which is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. Another cause is trichomoniasis which is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a single-cell parasite. nnAnother type is non-infectious vaginitis which is usually caused by an allergic reaction or irritation from vaginal sprays, douches, spermicidal products, soaps, detergents, or fabric softeners. This can still cause itching, irritation, and a white discharge even though it is not actually an infection. nnThe final type is atrophic vaginitis. This type results from reduced estrogen levels after menopause. After menopause, the vaginal wells will get thinner which can cause irritation and itching. nnThe treatment for vaginitis depends on what sort of vaginitis the patient has. Basically, the cause of the infection determines the appropriate treatment. It may comprise oral or topical antibiotics and/or antifungal creams, antibacterial creams, or similar medications. A cream containing cortisone may also be used to relieve some of the irritation. If it is noninfectious vaginitis caused by an allergic reaction, an antihistamine may also be prescribed. For women who have atrophic vaginitis, a topical estrogen cream might be prescribed. nnThere are many things that you can do to prevent vaginitis or at least reduce the chances of getting it. If you suffer from yeast infections, it is typically useful to steer clear of garments that hold in heat and moisture such as nylon panties, pantyhose lacking a cotton panel, and tight jeans. Good hygiene is also important. Many doctors have found that if a woman eats yogurt that contains active cultures she will get fewer infections.nnFor more information on Vaginitis, try using some online resources such as VideoJug.com, where you can watch medical experts on the subject explain the symptoms and treatments in more detail.