Do you sometimes suffer from a burning feeling down there? Do your vagina itch? These are just some of the most common vaginal infection symptoms that you have to watch out for. And because their treatments vary depending on the condition, it is better that you know how to determine the type of vaginal infection that you have.
These are some of the most common types of vaginal infections:
- Bacterial Vaginosis
Good bacteria or lactobacilli live in your vagina. When its number gets a little too low, it can possibly trigger a condition that is known as bacterial vaginosis. You may see thick and whitish or clear and slippery discharge. You may also notice a fishy odour. It often does not burn or even itch.
- Yeast Infections
This is probably the most common type of vaginal infection. This is caused by Candida which is a type of fungus that lives naturally in the body. If in small numbers, Candida won’t cause any harm but if they grow in number, it’s going to be a problem. Candida albicans is the most common type of yeast. Watch out for thick and white discharge that somewhat resembles cottage cheese. Other symptoms include redness of the vulva and itching.
- Trichomonas
It is a sexually transmitted infection that is often called “trich”. Its cause is a single-cell parasite which is called trichomonas vaginalis and it is transferred from partner to partner during sexual intercourse. Some of its symptoms include yellow-gray or even greenish vaginal discharge that is a little frothy and usually smells fishy. Often, the vulva gets red and swollen. You might feel itching and burning sensations as well. Some experience painful urination as well.
- Viral Vaginosis
Most viruses are also spread through sexual intercourse. For instance, the herpes simplex virus, which may manifest with symptoms like lesions or sores in the genital area, and sore vagina and vulva. However, at times, there are no symptoms whatsoever and could only be detected by a gynecologist through an examination.
- Chlamydia Vaginitis
Another sexually transmitted disease, chlamydia may manifest with a discharge. But this is not always the case. What is a more common symptom is bleeding, especially post-sex? If you are sexually active, it is wise to be checked for chlamydia every year as it often does not have any symptoms but can affect one’s fertility.
These are your most common vaginal infections and all of them can be treated. What is important is for you to know which infection you have for you to be prescribed with the right medication. It is also unusual for women who are postmenopausal to have yeast, so you should see a doctor with persistent itching – especially if it occurs on the outside of the vagina. Contact Dr. Fay Weisberg for more information.
