What should I look for with a
vaginal infection?
Some
vaginal infections may not produce any symptoms. If you do develop symptoms,
the most common are:
- vaginal
itching
- a change in the amount of discharge from
your vagina
- a change in the color of
your vaginal discharge
- pain or
burning during urination
- pain
during intercourse
- vaginal
bleeding or spotting
The
symptoms of vaginal infections will also vary based on the cause of your
infection:
- Bacterial
infections typically cause
grayish-white or yellow discharge. This discharge may have a fish-like
odor that’s easily noticed after sex.
- Yeast
infections typically produce
itching. If discharge is present, it may be thick and white and look like
cottage cheese.
- Trichomoniasis is a condition that can produce vaginal itching
and odor. Discharge from this infection is typically greenish-yellow and
may be frothy.
Vaginal
infections aren’t life-threatening conditions. However, you should make an
appointment to talk to your wellness consultant if you:
- have never had a vaginal infection before
- have had a vaginal infection but are experiencing new
symptoms
- have had different or new sexual partners
- develop a fever
- believe you may be pregnant
- have symptoms that return after treatment
If
you experience vaginal irritation and have been diagnosed with yeast infections
in the past, you may not need to see your doctor.
Yeast
infections can be treated at home with over-the-counter vaginal
antifungal medications. However, if you’re not sure that you have a yeast
infection, it’s always wise to check with your doctor.
What causes vaginal infections?
Vaginal
infections can have several causes. If you develop a vaginal infection, your
doctor will diagnose and treat your infection based on its cause.
Common
causes of vaginal infections include:
- Bacterial infections. Certain
bacteria are commonly found in your vagina. An overgrowth of these
bacteria can cause bacterial vaginosis.
- Yeast infections. Yeast
infections are usually caused by a fungus called Candida albicans.
Many things, including antibiotics, can reduce the number of antifungal
bacteria in your vagina. This reduction can lead to an overgrowth of
fungi and cause an infection.
- Trichomoniasis. This
vaginal infection is caused by a protozoan parasite that can be contracted
through sexual intercourse.
- Vaginal atrophy. This
condition commonly occurs after menopause. It can also develop during
other times in your life when your estrogen levels decline, such as while
breastfeeding. Reduced hormone levels can cause vaginal thinning
and dryness. These can lead to vaginal inflammation.
- Irritants. Soaps,
body washes, perfumes, and vaginal contraceptives can all irritate your
vagina. This can cause inflammation. Tight-fitting clothes may also
cause heat rashes that irritate your vagina.
In
some cases, your doctor may not be able to determine the cause of your vaginal
infection. This condition is known as nonspecific vulvovaginitis. It can occur
in women of any age, but it’s more common in young girls that haven’t
entered puberty.
How are vaginal infections
diagnosed?
To
diagnose a vaginal infection, your doctor will ask you about your health
history. They’ll also typically ask about your sexual health such as your
current number of sexual partners and your history of past vaginal infections
or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Your
doctor may also perform a pelvic exam. During this exam, your doctor may
collect a sample of vaginal discharge. They’ll send this sample to a laboratory
for analysis. This can help your doctor learn what’s causing your infection.
How are vaginal infections treated?
Treatment
for vaginal infections will depend on what’s causing your infection. For
example:
- Metronidazole tablets, cream, or gel,
or clindamycin cream or gel may be prescribed for a bacterial
infection.
- Antifungal creams or suppositories may be prescribed
for a yeast infection.
- Metronidazole or tinidazole tablets may be prescribed
for trichomoniasis.
- Estrogen creams or tablets may be prescribed for
vaginal atrophy.
If
your infection is caused by an irritant, such as soap, your wellness consultant
will recommend a different product to reduce irritation.
How can you prevent vaginal
infections?
Not
all vaginal infections can be prevented. Using a condom during sexual
intercourse will help prevent the spread of STIs. It will also lower your risk
of contracting them.
Proper
hygiene can also help prevent some vaginal infections.
When
possible, you should wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a
cotton crotch. This can lower your risk of developing vaginal inflammation and
irritation. Some women develop inflammation and irritation from wearing less
breathable fabrics.
What’s the outlook if you develop an
infection?
Treatment
for vaginal infections is generally very effective. Proper diagnosis will
ensure that you receive the right treatment.
If
you have any new or concerning symptoms, always speak to a doctor to ensure you
get the right treatment.
