Vaginal infections
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Vaginal Infections are commonly thought to be entirely caused by STDs. This notion is unproven.[1] "Vaginitis" is a medical term used to describe various conditions that cause infection or inflammation of the vagina. Vulvovaginitis refers to inflammation of both the vagina and vulva (the external female genitals).
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[edit] Causes
Vaginal infections can be caused by:
- Creams
- Sprays
- Douching
- Tight clothing
- Sexual activity
- Anything else that may disrupt normal flora/fauna of the vagina, such as an extreme illness, feces getting in, or not eating enough probiotics in your diet.[2]
[edit] Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Excessive amounts of discharge, more so than normal.
- Abnormal coloration, such as yellow, gray, or green.
- Burning during urination.
- Itching on the outside of the vagina.
- Discomfort during intercourse.
[edit] Types
The six most common types of vaginal infections are:
- Candida or "yeast" infections.
- Bacterial vaginosis.
- Trichomoniasis vaginitis.
- Chlamydia vaginitis.
- Viral vaginitis.
- Non-infectious vaginitis.
[edit] Treatment
The treatment typically depends on the type of infection present. For the common yeast infection, which is not an STD, there are over-the-counter creams and vaginal suppositories found in the feminine health section.
Bacterial vaginosis, the most common vaginal infection yet also not an STD, is treated with antibiotics, either oral or applied in a vaginal cream.
Trichomoniasis, Chlamydia, and viral vaginitis are treated with prescribed medicines specific to the diagnosis. Non-infectious vaginitis, an infection caused by an introduction of a new irritant in the area of your vulva, is treated by getting rid of the cause. If you have changed your fabric softener or body wash recently, you go back to your norm and see if symptoms persist.
