Vaginitis

“Vaginitis” is a general term to describe conditions that cause inflammation or irritation to your vagina. Depending on the cause, you could have symptoms like itchiness, a burning feeling when you pee or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

You can get vaginitis from bacteria, fungi, parasites or other organisms, or chemicals in creams or personal hygiene products. In some cases, vaginitis occurs due to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or vaginal dryness from low estrogen levels. Having vaginitis is very common and affects almost everyone with a vagina at least once in their lifetime.

Your vaginal health probably doesn’t cross your mind until something feels different. Then, your vagina is the only thing you can think about. Itching, burning, pain, swelling and irregular discharge are all signs that something may be going on. While getting regular check-ups are important to your vaginal health, it’s also important to contact a healthcare provider when something doesn’t feel right to you.

There are many possible causes of vaginitis, and each cause has its own symptoms and treatment.

What are the most common types of vaginitis?

The most common types of vaginitis are:

• Bacterial vaginosis.
• Yeast infections.
• Trichomoniasis.
• Non-infectious vaginitis.
• Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (atrophic vaginitis).

Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common type of vaginitis. BV occurs when bacteria that normally live in your vagina overgrow for some reason, causing a bacterial imbalance. The most common sign is discharge with a fishy smell.

Yeast infection

Yeast infections are the second most common cause of vaginitis. An overgrowth of a fungus called candida causes it. Candida normally lives in your vagina without issue, but with a yeast infection, candida is off balance with other “good” bacteria. It can cause burning, itching and changes to your vaginal discharge.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis (trich) is an STI caused by a tiny single-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. When this organism infects your vagina, it can cause unpleasant symptoms like vaginal itching and a smelly discharge. This type of vaginitis is typically spread through sexual intercourse.

Non-infectious vaginitis

This type of vaginitis occurs when you have an allergic reaction or develop irritation from vaginal sprays, scented soap, douches or spermicide products. The skin around your vagina can also be sensitive to feminine products and wipes, sexual lubricants, detergents and fabric softeners.

Atrophic vaginitis

Atrophic vaginitis (genitourinary syndrome of menopause) is a form of vaginitis that occurs due to a decrease in estrogen levels. It causes your vagina to become thin and dry. This occurs primarily during perimenopause and postmenopause, which happens naturally or surgically (removal of your ovaries).

You can also experience similar symptoms if you’re breastfeeding (chestfeeding) or have recently given birth (postpartum) due to changing hormone levels.