Vaginitis

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina often caused by infections which result in distress and discomfort. 

Although some infections are associated with more serious diseases, the most common vaginal infections are:
* Bacterial vaginosis;
* Trichomoniasis;
* Vaginal yeast infection (candidiasis);

Symptoms

* discharge;
* irritation;
* itching;
* odor;

Transmission

Some vaginal infections are transmitted through sexual contact, but others such as yeast infections usually occur from different circumstances

Some causes of Vaginitis include:
* allergic and irritation factors;
* other STDs;

Allergic symptoms can be caused by:
* detergents;
* fabric softeners;
* spermicides;
* vaginal hygiene products;

Diagnosis

Physical Examination
Most vaginal infections have similar symptoms and a physical examination cannot always adequately determine the correct diagnosis

Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests are usually carried out for accurate diagnosis, including:
* evaluation of vaginal fluid under a microscope;

Treatment

There are many effective drugs available for treating Vaginitis, including the antibiotics:
* Ampicillin;
* Ceftriaxone;
* Clindamycin;
* Metronidazole;
* Tetracycline;

These are usually generally prescribed for women infected with Bacterial Vaginosis (BV).

Men carrying Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) usually do not require treatment unless their female sex partners suffer frequent repeat infections

Prevention

Allergic symptoms can be caused by:
* detergents;
* fabric softeners;
* spermicides;
* vaginal hygiene products;

Cervical inflammation from these products is usually associated with abnormal vaginal discharge.

Diagnostic tests should be carried out to differentiate from true vaginal infections

Research
Studies are being undertaken to determine the factors that promote the growth and disease-causing potential of vaginal microbes.