VAGINITIS

Vaginitis is a diagnosis for which 90% of women consult a gynecologist at least once in their lifetime.

WHAT IS VAGINITIS?

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the vagina, which is clinically manifested by increased colored discharge, burning and itching. Its cause is usually an imbalance of the vaginal flora or an infection. Estrogen deficiency after menopause and some dermatological diseases can also cause vaginitis.

THE MOST COMMON FORMS OF VAGINITIS ARE:

• Bacterial vaginosis. It accounts for 50% of vaginitis and is caused by an imbalance of vaginal flora. In particular, the number of protective lactobacilli decreases, at the expense of which anaerobic bacteria begin to multiply, resulting in bacterial vaginosis. This problem is mainly relevant in sexually active women, however, bacterial vaginosis is found in sexually inactive patients as well.
• Candidal vaginitis. It is the second most common form of vaginitis and accounts for 15-20% of it. Its causative agent in 85-90% is Candida Albicans and in 5-10% – Candida Glabrata or Candida Parapsilosis. Candidal vaginitis is caused by the growth of fungi in the vaginal flora, which is based on flora dysbiosis.
• Trichomoniasis. It is caused by the single-celled parasite Trichomonas Vaginalis, which is transmitted through sexual contact. 15-20% of vaginitis is a manifestation of trichomoniasis. In men, this infection is often asymptomatic. In women, as a rule, the infection is symptomatic, although it can also be asymptomatic.
• Postmenopausal atrophic vaginitis. Physiological or artificial menopause, when the amount of estrogen in the body decreases, causes thinning of the mucous membrane of the vagina and, as a result, its irritation, burning and dryness.

SYMPTOMS OF VAGINITIS ARE:

• Changes in the amount, color and smell of vaginal discharge
• Local irritation, redness and itching
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain during urination
• Bloody or brown discharge from the vagina that does not coincide with the menstrual period

7-72% of vaginitis can be asymptomatic!

In the presence of symptoms, the specific characteristics of the discharge

It may indicate what type of vaginitis we are dealing with. for example:

• Bacterial vaginosis is indicated if the discharge is greenish-yellow, has a fishy smell and is more abundant after sexual intercourse.
• Candidal vaginitis is indicated if the discharge is white, thick, curdled and accompanied by itching.
• Trichomoniasis is indicated if the discharge is yellowish-green and periodically frothy.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSULT A DOCTOR?

• if you have excessive, foul-smelling vaginal discharge or itching;
• If you have never had a vaginal infection. In such a case, the doctor will help you determine when to pay attention to the discharge;
• you have a history of sexually transmitted infection;
• if you have had several partners or currently have a new partner;
• If you have been treated but your symptoms persist;
• if you have fever, chills or pelvic pain;

RISK FACTORS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE DISEASE ARE:

• A change in the hormonal status of the body. eg: pregnancy, use of birth control pills, menopause;
• sexual activation;
• sexually transmitted infection in the anamnesis;
• Use of specific medications. eg: antibiotics, steroids;
• use of spermicides;
• uncontrolled diabetes;
• Using such hygienic products as: tampon, daily diaper, vaginal deodorant, etc.
• douching with excessive frequency;
• wearing damp and tight clothing;
• use of intrauterine contraceptives;

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO TO PREVENT VAGINITIS?

• Avoid hot baths and water spa procedures;
• Avoid using such irritants as: scented tampons and daily diapers, scented soaps and vaginal deodorants, antibacterial soaps;
• Avoid frequent douching. It helps destroy the vaginal microbiome, which is the basis of bacterial vaginosis;
• use a latex condom;
• Wear cotton/cotton underwear.

To schedule a consultation with a specialist, contact us:

Tel: 2 99 08 53

Miss: Digomi, Chachava 1/Ljubljanas 5