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Any irritation in the vaginal area is called vaginitis. The symptoms may include:
- itching
- redness
- burning with urination or
- unusual vaginal discharge
There are many causes for vaginitis. The causes may include: - douches and feminine sprays
- tampons or certain soaps
- chemicals such as Nonoxynol-9or preservatives in spermicidal foams, jellies, or lubricants
- sexually transmitted diseases
- yeast or bacterial overgrowth and
- usage of certain types of medications, particularly antibiotics
Those who are most prone to vaginitis are: - pregnant women
- those on certain kinds of oral contraceptive medicines
- women who have gone through menopause
- women with diabetes and
- women with HIV
Since there can be so many causes, the doctor must first find the cause in order to provide the correct treatment. A sample of the vaginal secretions may help in finding the cause. Treatment may be started before the results of the vaginal secretions sample are known, for this may take a few days. Sometimes, the doctor will want to treat the sexual partner as well. Do not use over-the-counter medications without the advice of your doctor. It could be the wrong treatment. To treat vaginitis, you need to contact your doctor. Article #4956 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
