A vaginal infection can be indicated if you are experiencing any symptoms of vaginitis. Vaginitis is defined as irritation or inflammation of the vagina or vulva. It is very common, especially in pregnancy. Most people with a vulva experience this at some point in their life. Vaginitis can be caused changes in hormone balance, overgrowth of bacteria, or allergies/irritants.
There are a few things that can make you more susceptible to a vaginal infection. These include:
- douching
- vaginal products (especially scented)
- perfumed bath products
- flavored lubricants
- wearing wet bathing suits for long periods of time
- spermicide
- tight/restrictive pants
Your partner’s genitals can alter the balance of your vagina, and if your partner is male, the semen can also cause changes in the amount of healthy bacteria.
Signs of vaginitis include:
- vulvar and or vaginal itching
- redness
- swelling
- discharge
- discomfort
- You can also have some burning or pain when you pee or pain with sex.
The three most common vaginal infections are bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection, and trichomoniasis.
Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include: thin, white to gray discharge that has a fishy odor.
Symptoms of a yeast infection include: thick, white, clumpy discharge and vaginal/vulvar itching.
Symptoms of a “trich” infection include: yellow to green discharge with a strong odor.
You may even experience one of these infections with no symptoms. Paying attention to what your normal discharge looks and feels like can help you to listen to your body’s signals that you may have a vaginal infection. Contact our office if you feel you are experiencing any of the symptoms above.