Vaginitis is a common and easily treatable condition. It’s an inflammation of the vagina that can cause discomfort, itching and abnormal vaginal discharge.

Various types of infection can cause vaginitis. Once your health care provider determines the cause of the inflammation, they can prescribe appropriate treatment. Vaginitis treatment could include antifungal creams, oral medications or, in the case of a bacterial infection, a course of antibiotics.

Bacterial vaginitis is one of most common forms of vaginitis. The cause of bacterial vaginitis isn’t known, but it is most common among sexually active individuals and results from an imbalance of healthy bacteria and harmful bacteria in the vagina. Douching, sex without condoms and more than one sexual partner can upset the balance of vaginal flora, increasing the risk of bacterial vaginosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Bacterial vaginosis can increase your chances of getting sexually transmitted diseases.

Another common form of vaginosis is candida vaginosis, more commonly known as a yeast infection.

Trichomoniasis (trich) is considered a sexually transmitted disease and is a less common vaginitis infection.

Atrophic vaginitis is a thinning of the vaginal walls associated with a decline in estrogen. It occurs most often after menopause and can lead to painful urination. Hormone therapy and vaginal lubricants can help ease the symptoms of atrophic vaginitis.

Common Symptoms of Vaginitis

Vaginitis symptoms can include:

• Vaginal itching
• Vaginal irritation
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Vaginal odor
• Vaginal dryness
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Vaginal bleeding

Vaginitis itself typically is not dangerous, but it can cause discomfort and impact your quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms, such as itching, unusual discharge or discomfort, you should seek medical care. A doctor can accurately diagnose the cause of vaginitis through a thorough examination and may recommend tests to identify your specific infection, whether bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection or trichomoniasis.

The earlier you’re seen, the less likely you’ll be at risk of developing any complications, as different types of vaginitis require distinct approaches. Without treatment, vaginitis symptoms can worsen and lead to pelvic inflammatory disease.

Vaginitis Causes and Prevention

Vaginitis often arises from infections like bacterial vaginosis, vaginal yeast infection or trichomoniasis, a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. Imbalances in vaginal bacteria, hormonal changes or the use of irritants, such as scented products or douches, can contribute.

Understanding the specific cause of your vaginitis is essential for targeted treatment. It’s important to communicate openly with your health care provider about your symptoms and any potential triggers to ensure an accurate diagnosis and personalized care plan.

Steps to help prevent a vaginal infection:

• Clean the vulva and vaginal area gently with mild, fragrance-free soap and water.
• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Avoid scented products, including soaps, bubble baths and feminine hygiene sprays.
• Don’t douche, as it can disrupt your natural vaginal flora balance.
• Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting pants to allow proper airflow.
• Drink plenty of water to maintain overall health.
• Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and probiotics to support immune function.
• Use barrier methods, like condoms, to reduce the risk of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to vaginitis.
• Attend routine checkups with your gynecologist for preventive care and early detection.

Vaginitis Treatment

Depending on the cause of vaginitis, the following treatments are available:

• Over-the-counter antifungal medications like clotrimazole can treat a vaginal yeast infection.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial vaginosis.
• Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection that can cause vaginitis, is usually treated with antibiotics.
• Noninfectious vaginitis caused by irritants or hormonal changes can be addressed by avoiding the irritant and by estrogen therapy. Estrogen therapy is a common treatment for atrophic vaginitis.
• There are no specific antiviral medications for viral vaginitis. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.