Different Kinds of Vaginal Infections
Vaginitis is the broader medical term which can describe a number of conditions of the vagina, like infections or inflammations. Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation of both the vagina and the outer female parts, the vulva.
The cause of a vaginitis can therefore be both:
A vaginal infection as well as an irritation from contact with chemicals or clothes. An infection (as opposed to an irritation) is usually caused by bacteria, viruses or yeast.
Depending on what causes the infection, the symptoms may vary.
The most common symptoms of Vaginitis:
What Vaginal Discharge is considered normal?
A certain amount of clear and odor-less discharge is considered normal for most women. But a vaginal discharge that has an odor or that is irritating can be considered abnormal discharge and needs to be looked at. Such abnormal discharge can be especially annoying and irritating at night and during sexual activity.
It is advised to consult your doctor or gynecologist if you note any such changes in the discharge.
Types of Vaginal Infections
The most common forms of infection
- Candida (Yeast Infection)
- Bacterial Vaginosis
- Trichomoniasis vaginitis
- Chlamydia
- Viral vaginitis
- Non-infectious vaginitis
It might be difficult to differentiate the exact types of infection and get a clear diagnosis since the symptoms can often be very similar. Furthermore, it can happen that several infections appear at the same time so its not always easy to make a diagnosis.
It is important to consult your doctor at the first appearance of symptoms because only a doctor can do the right diagnosis.
See Vaginal Infections for more information.