Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that is usually caused by a vaginal infection. Vaginitis can also be caused by an allergy or a lack of hormones in the vaginal area.
It is normal for women to have a small amount of clear or cloudy white discharge from the vagina. This discharge is what helps keep the vagina moist and healthy.
It is also normal for certain types of bacteria (called flora) to be present in the vagina. These bacteria usually cause no problems and exist "in balance" in our bodies. But when the balance gets tipped, this vaginal discharge can cause itching, odor, or irritation known as vaginitis.
There are several types of vaginitis. The most common are:
Yeast infections
Bacterial vaginosis (also called bacterial vaginitis or BV)
Trichomoniasis
Atrophic vaginitis (lack of hormones after menopause or after childbirth)
Allergic vaginitis
What are the symptoms of vaginitis?
Vaginal discharge: Women may experience vaginal discharge that can vary in texture (thick, thin, creamy, curd-like), color (white, gray, yellow, greenish), odor ("fishy" smell), and amount (heavy or light).
Vaginal itching or irritation: Women may experience itching, burning, irritation, redness, swelling, and sometimes pain in the vagina, labia, vulva, or perineum.
Other symptoms can include:
Vaginal dryness
Pain with intercourse
Pain or burning with urination (when the urine hits the skin)
How is vaginitis diagnosed?
When a woman is having symptoms of vaginitis, it is important for her to see her healthcare provider.
Your provider will take a sample of the vaginal discharge for testing at the lab. This test is called a genital culture. A genital culture can tell your provider if you have an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria, or if the discharge is normal. Treatment can then be started based on the culture results.
Is there a way to avoid getting vaginitis?
Do not use feminine hygiene sprays, scented deodorants, or maxi-pads or tampons with fragrance added.
Wear cotton undergarments instead of synthetic fabrics.
Do not douche. Using a douche can remove "good" bacteria and can upset the balance of the vaginal flora and can make you more prone to vaginitis.
If you suspect allergic vaginitis, try changing soaps and laundry detergents.
Some women may also experience allergic vaginitis due to latex allergy (latex condoms), so try using non-latex condoms.
