Vaginitis is a term used to describe disorders that cause infection or inflammation of the vagina. Vulvovaginitis refers to inflammation of both the vagina and vulva, the outer area of labial and skin surrounding the vagina.
These conditions can result from an infection caused by organisms such as bacteria, yeast, or viruses, as well as by irritations from chemicals in creams, sprays, or even clothing that are in contact with this area. In some cases, vaginitis results from organisms that are passed between sexual partners.
Description of Vaginitis
The term "yeast infection" is what most women think of when they hear the word vaginitis. However, a yeast infection is only one kind of vaginal infection. Vaginitis can be caused by several different organisms, sometimes at the same time, as well as by hormonal changes, allergies, or irritations.
Vaginitis can also be caused by antibiotic use, diabetes, excessive alcohol, steroid use, a weakened immune system, abrasions of the vagina, or tight non-cotton underwear.
Treatment of Vaginitis
The key to proper treatment is proper diagnosis. Because the causes are varied, the medication prescribed may involve antifungal creams and suppositories, antibiotics, and other prescription drugs. Vaginal creams and vaginal applications are often recommended first rather than oral medication.
Common medications used include Flagyl (metronidazole), doxycycline, azithromycin, Diflucan, and over-the-counter yeast medications.
Some self-care techniques include vinegar douches or sitz baths in a solution of 1 teaspoon of vinegar for every gallon of water, and eating yogurt containing live acidophilus cultures. Sstudies have not proven whether or not these are effective.
Recurrent yeast infections (greater than 4 episodes per year) are sometimes treated with oral fluconazole (Diflucan) and itraconazole Sporanox), or vaginal clotrimazole (Mycelex, Gyne-Lotrimin, Femcare) for 6 months.
It is recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse until treatment is completed.
Prevention of Vaginitis
A number of simple habits can help minimize the risks of infection:
Keep the vaginal area clean and dry
Avoid excessive douching and strong soaps and detergents
Wear cotton underwear that absorbs moisture and keeps the vagina dry
Clean from front to back after a bowel movement
Do not leave tampons or diaphragms in the vagina for long periods
Avoid deodorized tampons
Decrease intake of sweets, bread, and alcohol
Eat yogurt or take acidophilus tablets, especially if you are taking antibiotics
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