Vaginal Infection

A woman’s vagina makes discharge that’s usually clear or slightly cloudy. In some cases, changes in discharge may indicate a vaginal infection, even if it doesn’t have a smell or cause itching. Depending on the period of the menstrual cycle, the consistency and amount of vaginal secretions vary from very thin or watery discharge to thick discharge. When discharge has a very noticeable odor, burn, or itch, that’s likely a problem. Vaginitis affects all ages, but is most common during reproductive years

Symptoms of Vaginal Infection

The most common symptoms of vaginal infection:

• Irritation or itching of the genital area
• Discharge that may be white, grey, watery, curdy, or foamy
• Redness and swelling around or outside of vagina
• Pain or discomfort when urinating
• Painful sexual intercourse
• Foul or fishy vaginal odour

Causes of Vaginal Infection

Bacterial, fungal, or viral agents can cause vaginal infections. These infections are often transmitted through sexual intercourse, and having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis, a specific type of vaginitis.

Other factors that increase the risk of vaginal infection include:

• Pregnancy
• Douching and using vaginal products, such as sprays, spermicides, and birth control devices
• Using antibiotics
• Cigarette smoking
• Wearing tight pants or damp underwear
• Low oestrogen levels during menopause
• Women with diabetes or with less immunity are particularly prone to vaginal infection

Diagnosis of Vaginal Infection

• The doctor will carry out a physical examination and ask about medical history, particularly regarding any previous sexually transmitted infections.
• The doctor may conduct a pelvic exam to check inside the vagina for inflammation and excess discharge. A sample of discharge is sometimes taken in an attempt to determine the cause of the inflammation.

Treatment for Vaginal Infection 

Depending upon the symptoms, clinical examination and test report of vaginal sample doctor will confirm the cause of infection and medicines will be prescribed.

Prevention of Vaginal Infection

The following best practices may help prevent vaginitis:

• Having good overall hygiene
• Using mild soaps without irritants or scents
• Wearing cotton underwear
• Avoiding douching and irritating agents, such as those present in hygiene sprays, soaps, and other feminine products
• Wiping from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the vagina
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing
• Practicing sex with a condom
• Using antibiotics only when necessary

Frequently Asked Questions