VAGINAL INFECTION

A woman’s vagina makes discharge that’s usually clear or slightly cloudy. It does not really have a smell or make you itch. Depending on the period of 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 or burn or itches, that’s likely a problem.

Vaginitis affects all ages, but is most common during reproductive years.

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 infections

Sexual intercourse is the most common means of transmission for vaginal infection having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis, which is a particular type of vaginitis

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

• 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 

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

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