A vaginal infection is an infection of the vagina as a result of one or more bacteria, protozoan or yeast organisms. Symptoms of a vaginal infection are present when there is vaginal discharges change in color, profuse in amount. Vaginal infections are usually characterized by itchiness, burning sensation, redness and swelling around the vagina.
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common form of vaginal infection. Women having bacterial vaginosis have a large number of organisms called Gardnerella vaginalis. If this infection is present, a strong foul odor after sexual intercourse is present as well as, profuse white or discolored discharge.
Candida caused vaginitis is another frequent type of vaginal infection. This is characterized by itching, redness and swelling of the vaginal area. If this is present, there may be larger amounts of thick, white discharge or no discharge at all.
In cases of vaginal infection, one third of women have an unknown cause. These infections may extend to the urinary and reproductive system. Menopause, low hormone levels, allergies and weak immune system are among the causes of vaginal infections.
There is no one cause for vaginal infection. They may occur in stress, illnesses and with overuse of antibiotics.
In terms of diagnosis of vaginal infection, a simple physical assessment is done. The physician may ask for a history of the disease process as well as the clinical presentation.
The treatment for vaginal infections depends on the cause. A medication called metronidazole (Flagyl or Protostat) is prescribed for Trichomonas Vaginalis. This drug is taken by mouth. Alcohol is contraindicated while taking this drug because it may have an adverse effect of stomach upset or nausea. Other medicines such as clindamycin (Cleocin), miconazole (Monistat), clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin or Mycelex-G) and anti-fungal creams or gels are also available as treatment for Candida yeast infections.
If the infection gets worse or recurs, a physician must be consulted immediately.
