Generally, the vagina contains healthy bacteria, primarily lactobacilli, and the pH level of the vagina is acidic, ranging between 3.8 and 4.5. In vaginitis, these healthy conditions in the vagina are disrupted. 

Let’s take a look at this chapter in more detail.

Types of Vaginitis

Bacterial Vaginitis: This is caused by an imbalance of normal vaginal bacteria, especially a reduction of lactobacilli in the vagina or overgrowth of infectious bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis. It causes whitish-grey discharge from the vagina. Often, it is not associated with inflammation and itching. 

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a type of fungal infection, also known as a yeast infection, caused by the Candida albicans yeast. It is characterised by itching, redness, burning and thick white cheese-like discharge from the vagina. 

Trichomoniasis is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, which is transmitted through sexual contact. It presents with symptoms of itching, pain during intercourse or while passing the urine, and it causes greenish-yellow discharge from the vagina. 

Atrophic Vaginitis: This type of vaginitis is characterised by dryness and irritation of the vagina due to low levels of oestrogen. This type of vaginitis is more common during menopause due to hormonal imbalances. 

Non-infectious Vaginitis: This condition is caused by an allergy to certain chemicals found in soaps, latex, and other products. This causes symptoms of itching, burning and irritation of the vagina without any discharge. 

Mixed or Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis: This type of vaginitis is caused by various pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. 

The symptoms include burning, pain during intercourse and irritation while passing urine. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Vaginitis

• Changes in Vaginal flora, including a reduction in healthy bacteria, can cause vaginal infections.
• Hormonal Imbalance
• Conditions like diabetes mellitus, menopause, etc
• Sexually transmitted diseases 
• Use of irritants like soaps, detergents and spemicide. 
• Tight and synthetic clothes
• Mechanical irritation due to tampons or menstrual cups. 

Diagnosis of Vaginitis

• Diagnosis of vaginitis is based on detailed medical history and physical examination.
• Physical examination of the vulva and vagina 
• Blood tests like Complete Blood Count, Hormonal evaluations
• Vaginal cultures. 
• Biopsy of vaginal tissue in severe cases

Treatment of Vaginitis

• Ointment 
• Oral medications
• Intravaginal medications 

Complications of Vaginitis 

• Pelvic inflammatory disease occurs due to untreated vaginitis, which is characterised by the inflammation of the uterus and female reproductive system.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections can be caused by recurrent vaginitis
• It increases the risk of sexually transmitted disease. 

Diet and Lifestyle for Vaginitis Prevention and Support

• Wear breathable cotton clothing
• Avoid irritants such as soaps and perfumed hygiene products. 
• Practice safe sexual activities. 
• Management of underlying diseases. 
• Maintain healthy hydration. 
• Eat a balanced diet. 

Consult a doctor as soon as you experience symptoms such as vaginal irritation, burning and unhealthy discharges from the vagina. A proper treatment of vaginitis is necessary to avoid further complications and restore vaginal health.