20/07/2019
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Vaginal Infections (Vaginitis)
Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: Mary D. Nettleman, MD, MS, MACP
Medically Reviewed on 12/22/2017
Table of Contents
Definition and Facts about Vaginal Infections
What Are the Symptoms of a Vaginal Infection?
What Causes a Vaginal Infection?
When Should I Call My Doctor If I Think I Have a Vaginal Infection?
How Is Vaginal Infection Diagnosed?
What Is the Treatment for Vaginal Infections?
What Are Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications or Home Remedies Vaginal Infections?
What Antibiotics Treat Vaginal Infections?
Can Douching Cure Vaginal Infections?
How Do you Prevent Vaginal Infection?
What Is the Prognosis for Vaginal Infection?
Vaginal Infections Topic Guide
Doctor's Notes on Vaginal Infections Symptoms
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Definition and Facts about Vaginal Infections
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Vaginitis is an inflammation of the va**na, often due to va**nal infections that creates discharge, odor, irritation, or itching. It is difficult to diagnose because vaginitis has many causes. Women use a variety of over-the-counter medications to treat the itching, discharge, and discomfort of these conditions.
The va**na creates its own environment and maintains a balance among the normal bacteria found there and the hormonal changes in a woman's body. Vaginitis occurs when the va**nal ecosystem has been changed by certain medications such as antibiotics, hormones, contraceptive preparations (oral and topical), douches, va**nal medication, s*xual in*******se, s*xually transmitted diseases, stress, and change in s*xual partners.
Some va**nal infections are transmitted through s*xual contact, but others, such as yeast infections, probably are not. Vaginitis means inflammation and is often caused by infections, but may be due to hormonal changes (especially when a woman is going through menopause) or due to trauma in young girls. Some infections are associated with more serious diseases.
Three types of va**nal infections are the most common. Their causes are quite different but, their signs and symptoms are similar, and treatments of the three conditions vary.
1,Bacterial vaginosis
2,Vaginal yeast infection
3,Trichomoniasis