(Learning) Vaginal Infections

Vaginitis” is a medical term used to describe various conditions that cause infection or inflammation of the vagina. This refers to inflammation of both the vagina and vulva; the external female genitals. Itching or irritation anywhere on the body could cause discomfort. But when it occurs in an area as sensitive as the vagina and vulva; the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening, it can be especially uncomfortable. These conditions could result from an infection caused by organisms such as bacteria, yeast, or viruses, as well as by irritations from chemicals in creams, sprays, or even clothing that is in contact with this area. In some cases, vaginitis results from organisms that are passed between sexual partners.

The vagina creates its own environment and maintains a balance among the normal bacteria found there and the hormonal changes in a woman’s body. Infection occurs when the vaginal ecosystem has been changed by certain medications such as antibiotics, hormones, contraceptive preparations douches, vaginal medication, sexual intercourse, sexually transmitted diseases, stress, and change in sexual partners.

Some vaginal infections are transmitted through sexual contact, but others such as yeast infections probably are not. Vaginitis often is caused by infections, which create distress. Their causes are quite different, their symptoms similar, and treatment varies. Most common causes of vagina infection include; bacterial vaginosis, vaginal yeast infection and trichomoniasis.

Many women often mistakenly think they have a “yeast infection” and treat themselves when, in fact, they have a similar vaginal infection that will not respond to self-treatment with over-the-counter yeast medications. Most often, they incorrectly think they have a yeast infection but actually had bacterial vaginosis. The important thing is not to guess, but to recognise and differentiate the symptoms.

source: tribune