Vaginitis

 

A vaginal yeast infection is usually a mild fungal infection of the vagina that is commonly seen in women. A yeast infection cannot be transmitted sexually; rather, it occurs when the normal vaginal PH balance changes, resulting in a decrease of “good” bacteria and increase in yeast cells found in the vagina (most often Candida albicans).

 

Yeast infections are commonly seen in some women after antibiotic therapy as well as in pregnant women. Symptoms of a yeast infection may include vaginal odor, discharge, itching and irritation.

 

 

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is usually a mild infection of the vagina and considered the most common vaginal infection seen in women. BV is not transmitted sexually; rather, it occurs when the normal vaginal PH balance changes, resulting in a decrease of “good” bacteria and increase of “bad” bacteria in the vagina. Although BV is most often a mild infection it can potentially lead to more serious gynecologic problems. Symptoms of BV may include vaginal odor, discharge and irritation.

 

 

Atrophic vaginitis is commonly seen in menopausal women when their estrogen production declines. On examination, assessment of atrophic vaginitis may include:  thinning of vaginal walls, decreased lubrication, irritation and inflammation.

 

Women with atrophic vaginitis often complain of vaginal dryness, soreness, itching and painful intercourse.

 

Atrophic vagintis can also alter the vaginal PH balance - causing bacterial and fungal infections to occur.