Vaginitis is a very common problem seen in women, where in there is an inflammation of vaginal mucosa and is associated with an infection or irritation of vulva leading to vulvovaginitis. Vaginitis can be asymptomatic but often leads to irritation and vaginal itching. A person suffering from Vaginitis should seek medical help immediately. If an infectious organism is responsible for causing Vaginitis then the infection spreads throughout the uterus into the ovaries and fallopian tubes and may also lead to infertility. An infection through human papillomavirus increases the risk of cervical carcinoma.
If neglected further complications such as superficial skin infection, candida infection and persistent discomfort may follow.
Diagnosis for this disorder is made by measuring the PH value in the urine content. PH value increases due to vaginal infection.
Symptoms of Vaginitis include itching or irritation of genital area, inflammation of perineal area or labia majora. Swelling, redness and irritation is caused due to the occurrence of extra immune cells. Vaginal discharge, burning or discomfort when urinating, foul vbaginal odors, pain with sexual intercourse are some of the other symptoms of Vaginitis.
There are various forms of Vaginitis. Infectious Vaginitis generally occurs during reproductive age of women. Hormonal Vaginitis is generally found in postmenopausal women. Sometimes it occurs in girls before puberty. Allergies to lubricants, douches, perfumes, soaps, spermicides and condoms may lead to irritant Vaginitis. It may also be caused due to abrasion, tampons, tissue, hot tubes or topical medications.
Treatment to vagintis depends on the cause of infection. It may include topical or oral antibiotics or antibacterial creams, antifungal creams or similar medications. A cream that contains cortisone is very useful to get relief from the irritation which becomes unbearable. In case of allergic reactions the doctor may prescribe an antihistamine. If inflammation and irritation is caused due to decreased levels of estrogen then the doctor may prescribe an estrogen cream.
