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Vaginitis

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Vaginitis is the imbalance of good versus bad bacteria in the vagina. Vaginitis is not always caused by sexual contact. Sexually inactive women can have this condition. Vaginitis is generally transmitted through vaginal sex.

Risk Factors:

• New and / or multiple sex partners, especially without using condoms
• Antibiotics
• Pregnancy
• Douching
• Damp underwear
• Vaginal products such as sprays, lubricants, and birth control devices

Signs & Symptoms:

• Swelling, itching, and burning in the vagina
• Unusual discharge and or smell
• Bacterial Vaginosis
• Yeast Infection
• Trichomoniasis

Complications & Consequences: are generally dependent on the cause of infection.

• Increased susceptibility to other STD like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
• Increased risk of acquiring HIV through heterosexual contact
• Increased chance that an HIV Infected woman will pass HIV to her partner
• Increased risk of acquiring PID following surgical procedures such as hysterectomy or abortion
• If untreated in pregnancy, it can lead to: low birth weight deliveries, intra-amnionic infection, Chorioamniomitis, Postpartum Endometritis
• Causes special problems in pregnant women and their babies
• Re-infection after treatment is possible

Prevention:

• Appropriate use of latex condoms and barriers
• Wash vaginal area daily with mild soap, rinse well and pat dry
• Wipe your vagina and anus from front to back
• Take antibiotics only when necessary
• Limit number of sexual partners
• Wear cotton or cotton lined underwear
• Do not wear tight pants or panty hose in hot weather
• See your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any unusual discharge or smell