5 Common Vaginal Infections: Everything You Need To Know

Vaginal infections remain the most frequent health problems females of all age groups are prone to. These may cause discomfort, itching, and irritation; fortunately, getting them treated and prevented with proper information is pretty straightforward. 

This blog covers the most common vaginal infections, their symptoms, treatment, and prevention methods.

Here Are The Most Common Vaginal Infections, Their Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention.

1. Yeast Infection or Candidiasis

Excessive growth of fungus called Candida in your vagina causes yeast infections.

Symptoms of Yeast Infection

• Intense itching in and around the vagina
• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge
• Redness and swelling around the vulva
• Pain during intercourse or while urinating

Treatment & Prevention

Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories are first line treatment of  yeast infections. Antifungal medication like fluconazole helps in more severe cases.

You may prevent vaginal yeast infection by:

• Wearing breathable cotton underwear.
• Avoiding wearing tight clothing for very long.
• Changing out of wet swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes as soon as possible.
• Not douching your vagina—as it upsets the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina.

2. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is a development of an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. 

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

• Thin, greyish-white discharge.
• A strong, fishy odour, particularly after having sex.
• Mild itching or irritation.

Treatment & Prevention

BV is generally treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin. Even when symptoms improve, full treatment should be administered.

You may prevent bacterial vaginal infection by:

• Avoiding scented soaps and feminine hygiene sprays.
• Having fewer sex partners is important to avoid disrupting the normal balance between bacteria.
• Lighty washing the outside of the vaginal area daily with mild fragrance-free soap.

3. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is an STD caused by a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. 

Symptoms of Trichomoniasis

• Frothy greenish-yellow discharge with a bad smell
• Itching and irritation inside the vagina.
• Painful urination or intercourse, sometimes no symptoms at all.

Treatment & Prevention

The standard treatment of Trichomoniasis involves oral administration of antibiotics. It is usually prescribed with metronidazole or tinidazole. Both the partners should be treated simultaneously to avoid reinfection. 

Prevention of Trichomoniasis is done by:

• Practising safe sex using condoms reduces your risk of acquiring STIs.
• Undergoing regular STI testing, particularly if you have multiple sexual partners.
• Ensuring that you and your partner receive treatment if you obtain a positive test result.

4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Signs and Symptoms: Even though it is not properly classified as a vaginal infection, this is an infection of the membrane lining the urethra and bladder. 

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate.
• Itchy vagina
• Burning sensation while urinating.
• Cloudy or very foul-smelling urine.
• Pain in the lower abdomen.

Treatment & Prevention

UTIs are treated using antibiotics prescribed by a physician. Plenty of water intake and frequent urination helps to eliminate the bacteria from your system.

To prevent UTIs:

• Drink lots of water to flush out the urinary system.
• Always clean your genital area by wiping it from front to back after visiting the toilet. This will prevent the spread of the infection-causing bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
• Make it a point to urinate after sexual intercourse to help flush out the bacteria.
• Avoid holding urine for long periods.

Wondering how to stop itching down there immediately? Explore this guide to learn ten easy and quick tips for relief.

5. Chlamydia & Gonorrhea

These are sexually transmitted infections which have the potential to infect the vagina. 

Symptoms of Chlamydia & Gonorrhea

• Painful urination or intercourse
• The discharge of unusual material from the vagina
• Abdominal pain, in cases that reach an advanced stage
• Most of the women will not show the symptoms, and hence regular testing for the STIs is the best course.

Prevention & Treatment

Both chlamydia and gonorrhoea are curable by the use of antibiotics. In such cases, it is vital to treat both partners at the same time so that one may not get infected again.

Prevent them by:

• Having protected sex.
• Regular testing for such infections, especially for people with new or multiple partners.
• Reducing sexual exposure decreases one’s chances of infection.
• Keeping the genital areas clean.

Bottomline

Although bothersome, vaginal infections are treatable and can be prevented if taken care of accordingly. Recognising the signs and symptoms of some of the common infections, including yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and sexually transmitted diseases, will lead you to the right and timely treatment. Good hygiene and safe sex will decrease the chances of developing a vaginal infection and preserve your reproductive health. If you are experiencing recurrent vaginal infections, especially after menopause, consult an expert practitioner for Empower RF treatment in Bradford. This innovative treatment rejuvenates the vagina and minimises vaginal symptoms like itching, infections and pain during sex.