What is Vaginitis?

Vaginitis is a condition which troubles many women around the world. It is a condition which is caused due to infection to the vagina. The infection leads to irritation of the vagina and causes discomfort to the patient. Sometimes vaginitis can also occur due to reduction in the female hormone – estrogen, after the menopause.

Every woman experiences the passage of some fluid from the vagina, which is normal and a natural mechanism of the body to keep the vagina moist and healthy. The discharge which passes through the vagina is normally clear, milky and odorless. But when the amount and color of the discharge changes, then it is a condition to worry.

Also, the vaginal discharge will have a foul odor and may even cause yellowish stains on the panty. This is because of the imbalance of the bacteria in the vagina. The vagina contains some amount of bacteria which is helpful for maintaining a healthy state of the vagina. But when the quantity of these helpful bacteria increases or decreases below a certain level, then the vagina becomes vulnerable to infections, thus leading to vaginitis.

The causes of vaginitis include infections due to bacteria, yeast and some parasites. Unhygienic habits and lack of cleanliness of the genital area also results in the occurrence of vaginitis. Girls who are about to attain puberty also suffer from this disorder as their genitals are not strong enough to fight the infection. Hormonal changes, allergies due to creams or soaps can also be the causes of vaginitis. Retention of condoms or tampons can also cause infection of the vulva resulting into this irritating condition.

The symptoms of vaginitis include irritation and itching of the genitals. Swelling and redness of labia majora and labia minora also results in the inflammation of the vaginal appearance. Change in the color of the vaginal discharge and a foul smell of the vagina are the most common symptoms of vaginitis. A woman suffering from this disorder finds a lot of difficulty while urinating and performing sexual intercourse.

The treatment of vaginitis depends upon the type and cause of vaginitis. But following proper cleanliness and maintaining hygienic habits plays a big role in preventing vaginitis.