Vaginitis

Pain, heat, redness, swelling, or itching, of the vaginal area. It is a very common ailment. It is primarily of four types: Bacterial vaginosis (BV), Yeast infection, trich (Trichomoniasis), or contact Vaginitis (non-infectious and generally caused after menopause, vaginal drying, or hysterectomy.

Cause:

• It can be due to bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infection.
• Poor hygiene or diet
• Often related to douching
• Using contraceptives that do not fit

Symptoms:

• Pain during urination or sex
• More discharge
• Vaginal pain, itching, swelling or reddening
• Some cases do not have any symptoms.

Treatment:

Administration of antibiotics

Prevention:

• Avoid douching, can lead to infection.
• Do not wear wet clothes for too long.
• Keep vaginal area clean and dry.
• Avoid tight clothing
• Wear cotton underwear
• Do not use scented sanitary napkins or harsh soaps when area is irritated. After each use, clean diaphragms and caps of spermacide applicators.
• Keep blood sugar levels within control.

Notes:

• It is not a sexually transmitted disease.
• Women with STDs are more likely to get it.
• Most Vaginitis are not contagious but trich (Trichomoniasis) can be passed through sexual intercourse.
• Treatment usually last a week

Compiled by: Indrajit Sinha, Last updated: 02.12.07 © Medhospital Foundation

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