Vaginitis is a name for a group of disorders of the vagina caused by infection, inflammation, or changes in the normal vaginal flora. These include trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and yeast infections. Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). But having any type of vaginitis may increase your risk of catching other STIs.
What to look for
Unusual discharge is the most common sign of vaginitis. The discharge varies by the type of infection. But not all discharge means that you have an infection. A small amount of discharge with no other symptoms, like a bad smell or itching, can be normal:
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Trichomoniasis may cause frothy greenish or yellow discharge, which can have an odor. The vagina can itch or burn. There can be swelling or redness at the opening of the vagina. There can be pain during sex or urination.
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Bacterial vaginosis (BV) may cause grayish-white, watery, or milky discharge. The discharge can have a strong fishy odor.
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Yeast infections may cause discharge that looks like cottage cheese. There can also be intense itching or burning in the vagina. There can be swelling or redness at the opening of the vagina. There can be pain during sex or urination.
Treatment
Medicines can cure all types of vaginitis. For trichomoniasis, your partner also needs to be treated. Otherwise, it can be passed back to you. To limit yeast infections, wash with mild soap and water. Don’t douche. Wearing cotton underwear can also help limit yeast infections. Change out of clothes that are wet, like exercise clothes or bathing suits, as soon as possible.
If you don’t get treated
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Discharge, burning, and itching can continue.
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Having BV or trichomoniasis can make it easier for you to get other STIs.
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BV can put you at risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.
Notify your partner
Tell your partner if you have trichomoniasis. Men usually don’t have symptoms. But without treatment they can pass it back to you or to others.
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