Vaginitis, symptoms and treatment

07/06/2022
woman holds a heart next top vagina

One of the most common problems faced by women, especially during the summer period, is the inflammation of the vagina or otherwise common called as vaginitis. Although vaginitis does not seem to be a serious condition, however, many times the treatment is rather than easy. This is due to the anatomy of the area and the complexity of the natural microflora of the vagina.

What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is a term that describes various disorders that cause infection or inflammation of the vagina. Vaginitis refers to inflammation of both the vagina and the pudenda(the external female genitalia). These conditions can result from an infection caused by organisms such as bacteria, yeast or viruses. [1]

Vaginitis can be found either in the outer area of ​​the vagina (vagina) or internally in the endometrium, vagina or cervix.

The most common types of vaginitis are [1]:

  • Candida infections
  • Bacterial vaginosis
  • Trichomonas vaginitis
  • Chlamydia or gonorrhea
  • Viral vaginitis (herpes)
  • Non-infectious vaginitis
  • Atrophic vaginitis

Causes of vaginitis

The vagina is normally colonized by symbiotic microorganisms (normal flora) which prevent pathogenic microbes from entering and growing. The normal pH of the vagina ranges from about 3.8 to 4.5, ie it is acidic. Its acidity decreases slightly as we grow older, especially after menopause, with the pH increasing close to 5.

When for some reason the normal microflora is disturbed, pathogenic microorganisms develop, the pH changes and thus the symptoms of vaginitis appear. Decreased estrogen levels after menopause and some skin disorders can also cause. [2]

In addition, irritation from chemicals in creams, sprays or even clothes that come in contact with this area can also lead to vaginitis. In some cases, vaginitis is caused by microorganisms that are transmitted between sexual partners, vaginal dryness and lack of estrogen. [1]

Risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of developing vaginitis include:

  • Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, birth control pills or menopause
  • Sexual activity
  • Having a sexually transmitted infection
  • Medications
  • Use of spermicides
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Use of hygiene products such as shower gel, vaginal spray or vaginal deodorant
  • Douching
  • Wearing wet or tight clothes
  • Use of intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control [2]

Symptoms of vaginitis

Each of these vaginal infections may have different symptoms or no symptoms at all. In fact, the diagnosis can be difficult even for the doctor. Sometimes, there can be more than one type of vaginitis at the same time. Below we present the symptoms of some types of vaginitis.

Candida infections

  • Thick, white vaginal discharge with the texture of cottage cheese
  • Aqueous, odorless secretion
  • Itching, redness, swelling in the vagina or vagina
  • “Small cuts” in your vagina due to the “fragile” (very soft) skin of the area
  • Burning sensation when urinating (dysuria)

Bacterial vaginosis

There may be no symptoms at all. It can be diagnosed during a gynecological examination. It can be observed:

  • Vaginal secretion with a different odor which becomes more intense after sexual intercourse or menstruation.
  • Fine, milky secretion which has a special “fish” odor. This odor can become more noticeable after sexual intercourse.
  • Itching and redness are usually not seen unless there is a simultaneous infection with bacterial vaginosis and yeast.

Trichomoniasis (Trich)

Symptoms include:

  • Foamy, greenish-yellow discharge that often has a foul odor.
  • Itching and pain in your vagina and vulva, as well as burning when urinating.
  • Discomfort in the lower abdomen and vaginal pain during intercourse. These symptoms may feel worse after menstruation.

Chlamydia

Many people with chlamydia infection do not notice any symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. Sometimes there is vaginal discharge, but not always.
Most often, it can be observed:

  • Mild bleeding, especially after intercourse due to “brittle” or very soft cervix.
  • Pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis.
  • Herpetic vaginitis (HSV). The main symptom of herpetic vaginitis is the pain associated with lesions or sores. These sores are usually visible in the vagina or vagina, but are occasionally located inside the vagina and can only be seen during a gynecological examination.

Non-infectious vaginitis

  • Itching, burning and irritation of the vagina and vagina
  • Thick vaginal discharge, like mucus, yellow or green

Atrophic vaginitis

  • Pain, especially during sexual intercourse
  • Itching and burning in the vagina
  • Symptoms of urgent urination and frequency

woman holds a flower in front of her vagina

Vaginitis and period

The menstrual cycle includes hormonal changes that can create an imbalance in the pH of the vagina. When this happens, the bad bacteria can multiply, potentially leading to infections such as bacterial vaginosis [3].

Occasional itching during menstruation is a common report. Sometimes, sensitive skin can react to the materials used to make the hygiene products used.

  • Itching caused by irritation can be avoided or reduced in the following ways:
  • Application of tampons or sanitary napkins fragrance-free
  • Change of company in order to test products with different construction materials
  • Change hygiene products regularly
  • Apply the appropriate size tampon, depending on the flow, avoiding highly absorbent sizes if not necessary.
  • Period cup application which should be carefully cleaned.
  • Avoid scented products, such as scented cleaning wipes, in the vaginal area.
  • Wash the area only with water and mild soap without color or fragrance.

If you occasionally feel itching in the vaginal area during menstruation it is not something to worry about. Probably due to something that can be easily solved. But if the symptoms do not go away then you should consult your doctor. [3]

Vaginitis treatment

Vaginitis needs proper treatment to reduce its symptoms and treat it. The treatment may consist of a prescription treatment suggested by the treating physician or a non-prescription treatment such as vaginal suppositories with lactobacilli.

Fungal vaginitis or candidiasis

If the cause of vaginitis is an overgrowth of a fungus, then oral antifungal agents as well as antifungal intravaginal suppositories or creams are usually given. As there are normally lactobacilli in the vagina that protect against pathogenic microorganisms, in cases of fungal infections, intravaginal lactobacillus suppositories are administered which help in the faster restoration and balancing of the flora of the area.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is usually a polymicrobial infection. Treatment involves taking oral and intravaginal antibiotic therapy, or using an antibacterial intravaginal cream.

What products to use?

As vaginitis is essentially a vaginal pH disorder, there are commercially available cleansers for the sensitive area that help balance vaginal acidity.

Intravaginal cleansers are available in different pH values ​​with antiseptic properties, depending on the cause of the infection and can be used in conjunction with the respective treatment recommended by the gynecologist.

In addition, as the cleanliness of the area is a cornerstone in its hygiene, there is a wide variety of external cleaners in the sensitive area that treat and soothe the vaginal area without disturbing the normal pH and without drying out.

In case of intense dryness there are vaginal gels which relieve dryness and help lubricate the vagina.

Natural solutions for vaginitis

Many people wonder if there are natural ways to treat vaginitis. In general, it is wise to follow the instructions of a specialist who has made a valid diagnosis. Otherwise, the situation is likely to worsen if we make arbitrary decisions without informing the treating physician.

So there are foods and substances that can help us better treat vaginitis.

Yoghurt

Yogurt can be useful in vaginitis treatment. Studies show that, when taken, it enriches the vagina with friendly bacteria that act against pathogenic bacteria. Yogurt can help resolve vaginitis and prevent its recurrence. [3]

Boric acid

Boric acid has been used for many years as a treatment for vaginal infections. It has been shown to help resolve vaginitis and reduce symptoms over time when applied to the vagina. However, boric acid is used under expert guidance and requires caution. However, boric acid is used under specialist guidance and needs caution, as it can become quite irritating with prolonged use. [4]

Dietary changes

If you have some form of vaginitis, changing your diet can help reduce the symptoms and support the recovery process. Dietary changes you need to make include:

  • Reduction of sugar and sweets
  • Abstain from foods with yeast such as bread
  • Reduce cheese consumption
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Eat more vegetables
  • Consumption of rice and wheat
  • Consumption of sugar-free yogurt [5]

When making changes to your diet, always consult a specialist and monitor for changes in symptoms.

Vaginitis prevention

The prevention of both the development and recurrence of vaginitis, concerns the hygiene of the area as well as the properly strengthened immune system. Increased humidity from the use of sanitary napkins and swimsuits / clothes with moisture for a long time, the use of tight clothing and underwear as well as the increased temperature during the summer months can trigger the growth of a germ. Here are some simple daily tips to prevent vaginitis:

  • Cleaning the sensitive area with special cleaners that do not disturb the normal microflora.
  • Be careful not to get infected with bacteria that are in the perianal area.
  • Good hand cleaning before and after cleaning.
  • Proper care of the sensitive area, especially during the days of the period.
  • After the end of the period, prophylactic intravaginal suppositories with lactobacilli can be used to restore and strengthen the local microflora.
  • Use of condom during sexual intercourse.
  • In case of oral antibiotics, take dairy products in parallel or use intravaginal suppositories for the prevention of fungal infection.
  • Taking probiotic supplements by mouth is also useful, especially in soil of fungal infection.
  • In any case, consult your gynecologist for the correct and timely treatment of vaginitis.

At Vita4you.gr you will find a wide variety of products for vaginitis!

Bibliography

  1. Vaginitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
  2. Vaginitis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
  3. Itchy Vagina During Period: Causes and Treatments
  4. Ingestion of yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus as prophylaxis for candidal vaginitis
  5. How Can I Treat Vaginitis at Home?

 

Rania Charboglou

Charboglou Rania completed the basic education of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics of the Alexander Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki in 2019 and is a graduate of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics of the International University of Greece.

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Disclaimer

The content of this blogspot is not and can not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All information is provided to readers solely for informational purposes. There is no intention to substitute this content for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, prognosis or treatment.

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