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Vaginitis


About this topic


Vaginitis is the redness and swelling of the vagina and the area outside of the vagina. The condition may also be called vulvovaginitis. Your vagina joins the uterus or womb with the outside of your body. ‚  

What are the causes?


Vaginitis may be caused by: ‚  
  • An infection
  • Irritation from soaps, bubble baths, douches, or other chemicals
  • Not being clean
  • A change in hormones with pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause
  • Drugs like antibiotics or steroids
  • Sexual intercourse
  • Diabetes that is not controlled
  • A weak immune system

What can make this more likely to happen?


Vaginitis is common in women. You are more likely to have vaginitis if you: ‚  
  • Take bubble baths
  • Use feminine hygiene sprays or perfumed soaps
  • Wear clothes that are tight or wet
  • Do not dry your vaginal area well after taking a bath

What are the main signs?


Your vaginal area may itch, burn, or feel painful. You may have some kind of discharge from your vagina or there may be none at all. There may be a bad smell coming from your vaginal area. ‚  

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your doctor will take your history. Your doctor will do an exam of the pelvic area. Based on the problem, your doctor may need to do a pelvic exam. The doctor may order: ‚  
  • Lab tests
  • Urine tests

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


Your care depends on the cause of your vaginitis. ‚  

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain and swelling
  • Fight an infection

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


  • Do not wear clothes that may hold moisture, such as nylon or polyester. Wear cotton underwear.
  • Wear loose-fitting pants or other clothes. Avoid wearing underwear while you sleep. This can help keep your vaginal area dry.
  • Clean your vaginal area with water. If you use soap, be sure it is mild and rinse well. Pat the area dry with a clean towel. Do not use bubble baths or douche.
  • Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
  • If you have sex, use latex condoms each time to lower spread of infection. Avoid multiple sex partners.

Where can I learn more?


The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ‚  
http://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Vaginitis ‚  
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development ‚  
http://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/vaginitis/conditioninfo/Pages/default.aspx ‚  

Last Reviewed Date


2015-06-18 ‚  

List_set bdysylist


  • Adult
  • Genitourinary

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚  
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