Vulvovaginitis

Soothe the discomfort of vaginitis and get back to enjoying life. First, uncover the cause. Then control the irritating symptoms. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.

• Give yogurt a goHelp prevent recurrences of bacterial or candidal vaginitis by eating 5 ounces (113 grams) a day of yogurt containing live Lactobacillus acidophilus, a friendly bacteria
• Steer clear of irritantsReduce vaginal irritation by minimizing friction and reducing your exposure to perfumes, spermicides, and other chemicals
• Get a checkupVisit your doctor to find out if your vaginitis is caused by a treatable medical condition

About This Condition

Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina.
Vaginitis is responsible for an estimated 10% of all visits by women to their healthcare practitioners. The three general causes of vaginitis are hormonal imbalance, irritation, and infection. Hormone-related vaginitis includes the atrophic vaginitis generally found in postmenopausal or postpartum women and, occasionally, in young girls before puberty. Irritant vaginitis can result from allergies or irritating substances. Infectious vaginitis is most common in reproductive-age women and is generally caused by one of three types of infections: bacterial vaginosis (BV), candidiasis (yeast infection), or trichomoniasis. A healthcare professional should be consulted for the diagnosis and treatment of any vaginal infection.
Although it is a type of vaginitis, yeast infection is not discussed on this page. For specific information on yeast infections (i.e., vaginitis caused by Candida albicans), see the yeast infections article.

Symptoms

Hormone-related vaginitis is marked by dryness, irritation, thinning of the vaginal mucous membranes and painful intercourse. Irritant vaginitis is characterized by itching and soreness. Infectious vaginitis also itches and typically includes vaginal discharge that varies in color, consistency, and odor, depending upon the infectious organism. Discharge may range from scant to thick and white and may or may not be accompanied by a strong odor. Symptoms are often worse immediately after intercourse or the menstrual period.

Healthy Lifestyle Tips

For irritant vaginitis, minimizing friction and reducing exposure to perfumes, chemicals, irritating lubricants, and spermicides can be beneficial.

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Yeast Infections

Yeast infection means fungal overgrowth. Vaginal yeast infections are one of the most common reasons women seek healthcare. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful

Switch to cotton underwearAvoid the increased risks of yeast infection associated with nylon underwear and tights

Try beneficial bacteriaTo prevent the overgrowth of yeast organisms, eat yogurt containing live acidophilus cultures daily, and use acidophilus topically as vaginal suppositories or a douche

Ask about problem medicinesDiscuss with your doctor whether you can avoid taking antibiotics, oral contraceptives, or adrenal corticosteroids (such as prednisone) that may lead to yeast infection

Yeast infections usually result from an overgrowth of a species of fungus called Candida albicans. They can occur on the skin, under nails or mucous membranes of the mouth, vagina, bronchi, and lungs.
Vaginal yeast infections are one of the most common reasons that women consult healthcare professionals.

Symptoms

Yeast infections are a type of vaginitis. The hallmark symptom of a yeast infection is itching of the external and internal genitalia, which is often associated with a white discharge that can be thick and/or curdy (like cottage cheese). Severe infections lead to inflammation of the tissue and subsequent redness, swelling, and even pinpoint bleeding.

Healthy Lifestyle Tips

According to one study, yeast infections are three times more common in women who wear nylon underwear or tights, than in those who wear cotton underwear.¹ Additional predisposing factors for Candida infection include the use of antibiotics, oral contraceptives, or adrenal corticosteroids (such as prednisone).
Underlying health conditions that may predispose someone to Candida overgrowth include pregnancy, diabetes, and HIV infection. Allergies have also been reported to promote the development of recurrent yeast vaginitis. In a preliminary trial, when the allergens were avoided and the allergies treated, the chronic recurrent yeast infections frequently resolved.² In most cases, sexual transmission does not play a role in yeast infection. However, in persistent cases, sexual transmission should be considered, and the sexual partner should be examined and treated.

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