What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is a condition where the vagina becomes irritated or inflamed. It can happen because of an infection or from something that disrupts the natural balance of the vaginal environment. This is a common condition and can affect women at any stage of life.

Symptoms

Vaginitis can feel different depending on the cause, but many women notice changes that are hard to ignore.

Common symptoms include:

• Unusual vaginal discharge (may be thick, thin, or have an odor)
• Itching or irritation in the vaginal area
• Burning, especially during urination
• Pain during sex
• Redness or swelling around the vulva
• Vaginal dryness or discomfort

What causes vaginitis?

Several things can upset the natural balance of the vagina:

• Yeast overgrowth (a common fungal infection)
• Bacterial imbalance in the normal vaginal bacteria
• Sexually transmitted infections, such as trichomoniasis
• Viruses, including herpes or HPV
• Irritants, like scented soaps, sprays, or detergents
• Hormone changes, especially during menopause, pregnancy, or breastfeeding

Risk factors may include:

• Recent antibiotic use
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Hormonal shifts
• Weakened immune system
• Use of scented or chemical products
• Tight or non-breathable clothing
• Sexual activity, especially with multiple partners

How is it diagnosed?

Your provider will start by talking with you about your symptoms and medical history. A pelvic exam is usually performed to check for signs of irritation or infection.

In many cases, a small sample of vaginal discharge is examined under a microscope or sent to a lab. This helps identify the exact cause so treatment can be targeted and effective.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on what’s causing the symptoms. Many cases are easy to treat once the cause is identified.

Common treatments include:

• Antifungal medications for yeast infections
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections or trichomoniasis
• Antiviral medications for herpes-related symptoms
• Topical treatments or procedures for genital warts
• Avoiding irritants if symptoms are caused by chemicals or products
• Hormone therapy or moisturizers for vaginal dryness related to low estrogen

Most people feel better within a few days to a week after starting treatment. It’s important to complete the full course of medication and follow your provider’s instructions.

If left untreated, some types of vaginitis can lead to more serious health concerns, including infections that affect the reproductive organs or increase the risk of other sexually transmitted infections.