Infectious vaginitis: - Accounts for 90 percent of the all cases and usually occurs during sexual intercourse, sexual intercourse with a new or multiple partners, women who uses an intra uterine device (IUD) as a method for contraception. The most common causative organism is the bacteria Gardnerella. Some less common organisms are herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, campylobacter and streptococci (especially in pre-pubescent girls).
Atrophic vaginitis: - This type results from reduced estrogen levels after menopause. The vaginal tissues become thinner and drier, which may lead to itching, burning or pain.
Yeast infection: - This gets triggered trigger when there is an overgrowth of microscopic fungus - the most common being Candida albicans. Besides causing most vaginal yeast infections, C albicans also causes infections in other moist areas of your body, such as in your mouth (thrush), skin folds and fingernail beds.Uncontrolled diabetes, hormonal changes (during pregnancy, menopause) increases the risk for yeast infections.
Trichomoniasis: - This type is caused by the trichomonas vaginalis. The organism spreads during sexual intercourse with an already infected partner.Many a times vaginitis is caused by non-infectious causes like condoms, vaginal sprays, perfumed soaps, scented detergents and spermicidal products which may cause irritation of the delicate skin of the vulva/vagina leading to vaginitis.
There may be irritation, itching of the genital area, foul vaginal odor, change in color or amount of vaginal discharge, discomfort or irritation while passing the urine, pain or irritation while sexual intercourse, reddening and swelling of the labia majora, labia minora and perineal area and light bleeding after intercourse.
Vaginitis is diagnosed by medical history, physical examination and laboratory analysis of vaginal discharge. Vaginal discharge is microscopically examined and culture is done to find out the causative agent. Color, odor, consistency and acidity are checked and that can predict the causative agent.
Treatment includes oral or topical, anti-fungal or antibacterial agents. Cream containing cortisone, anti histamine or topical estrogen creams or oral estrogen pills are also prescribed. Local application of lactobacillus and low dose hormone helps in restoring normal flora and epithelial cells.
Irritation, infection and complications of the causative condition like sexually transmitted disease are the complications. Vaginitis in pregnant women can cause low birth weight of the infant and premature delivery.
Avoiding irritants, not douching, careful use of male condoms, avoiding tub bath, wiping from front to back after toilet and use of cotton undergarments can prevent vaginitis.
