How do we know if we have a vaginal infection?

Causes of vaginal infections

A normal, healthy vagina contains bacteria and sometimes yeast, and this does not necessarily mean an infection. But some factors can change the vaginal environment and cause bacteria or yeast to grow too much. The most important of these factors are:

• Changes in female hormone levels
• Taking some antibiotics
• Vaginal sex
• Vaginal shower or excessive washing of the vagina with soap and water
• Being during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Some of the above are unavoidable but others can be easily prevented. For example, there is no need to use a vaginal douche. Although this device has advantages, it usually has more disadvantages, and its continuous use may upset the pH balance by killing healthy bacteria in the vaginal area and increase the risk of infection.

Symptoms of a vaginal infection

In many cases, a vaginal infection can be completely asymptomatic and can only be diagnosed by a doctor. Signs and symptoms of a vaginal infection can vary depending on the cause:

Signs of a bacterial infection of the vagina

Bacterial infections of the vagina usually cause grayish-white or yellowish discharge. These discharges are generally foul-smelling and produce a fish-like odor. This odor is easily inhaled, especially during and after sex.

Symptoms of a vaginal fungal infection

One of the most common vaginal infections is fungal infections. These types of infections are often accompanied by itching, and if there is a discharge, it is white, thick, and cheese-like.

What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Another common infection in the female genital area is called trichomoniasis. This type of infection also causes itching and bad vaginal odor. The discharge from trichomoniasis is often yellowish-green and may be foamy. The disease is caused by a parasite and in 70% of cases has no specific symptoms at all. Women with this infection usually also feel uncomfortable when urinating.

The most common symptoms of a vaginal infection

As we explained in the previous section, the symptoms that appear vary depending on the cause of the infection. But in general, the symptoms of a vaginal infection include:

• Vaginal itching
• Discoloration of vaginal discharge
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Pain and burning when urinating
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Pain during sex

Other types of vaginal infections

As mentioned, vaginal infections have 3 very common types: 1- Fungal infections 2- Bacterial infections 3- Trichomoniasis. But in addition to the above, there are other factors that cause vaginal infections:

Chlamydia infection

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease that causes inflammation of the vagina and in some cases is associated with increased vaginal discharge. If the infection spreads to the cervix, bleeding may also occur between menstrual periods or after vaginal intercourse.

Gonorrhea

Another highly contagious sexually transmitted infection is called gonorrhea, which is often asymptomatic. Symptoms of a vaginal infection (if there are any symptoms) If you have gonorrhea, you may have increased vaginal discharge, pain when urinating, and pain during vaginal sex. Women with gonorrhea often have chlamydia as well.

Volvodynia disease

Chronic, persistent pain around the opening of the vagina may be a sign of vulvodynia. The symptoms of this disease are similar to other symptoms of vaginal infection, namely: burning, pain and swelling.

Viral vaginitis

Viruses can also cause vaginal infections. Most viruses that directly affect the vagina are transmitted through sexual contact. Herpes simplex virus is one of the most common causes of viral vaginitis. In this disease, wounds or lesions are often seen in the vaginal area. Of course, in many cases, these symptoms can also be hidden and can only be diagnosed by a doctor and by testing.

Symptoms of uterine and pelvic infection

Like vaginal infections, women’s pelvic infections may be completely asymptomatic. However, any of the following symptoms may be present:

• Pain (mild to severe) in the lower abdomen and pelvis
• Abnormal discharge
• Unpleasant vaginal odor
• Abnormal bleeding from the uterus, especially during or after intercourse or between menstrual periods
• Pain during intercourse
• Ague
• Urinary excretion with pain and discomfort

Signs and symptoms of uterine infection in girls

Vaginal infections in girls may be due to poor hygiene or the growth of multiple germs on the skin of the external genitalia and perineum. Sometimes it is caused by the use of foreign objects such as toilet paper. Itching and burning in the vaginal area, redness, swelling and itching of the vulva, thick and white discharge, pain and burning when urinating are the symptoms of vaginal infection in immature or virgin girls. Of course, as described earlier, the symptoms of an infection can vary depending on the cause.

Symptoms of uterine infection during menstruation

Women’s vaginas normally contain beneficial bacteria that keep the vaginal environment acidic and help keep it healthy. During menstruation, the infection may be caused by fluctuations in the hormones progesterone and estrogen, leading to increased bleeding. Or other factors, such as a weakened immune system or the use of antibiotics, can kill beneficial bacteria in the vagina and cause infection. Symptoms include vaginal odor, pelvic pain (especially during intercourse), spotting between periods, and in severe cases, fever.

How is a vaginal infection diagnosed?

If you have any of the symptoms of a vaginal infection that you mentioned, you should see a gynecologist. He or she will ask you questions about your medical history, number of sexual partners, history of vaginal infections, or sexually transmitted diseases. An internal examination of the uterus or pelvis may also be performed. If necessary, a vaginal discharge may be sampled and sent to a laboratory. In this case, the doctor will accurately diagnose the cause of the infection and prescribe medication accordingly.

Treatment of vaginal infection

Vaginal infection should be cured and treated according to the cause:

• For bacterial infection: metronidazole tablet, cream or gel or cream or gel Clindamycin
• For the treatment of fungal infections: antifungal cream or suppository
• For the treatment of trichomoniasis: metronidazole or tinidazole tablets

If the infection is caused by a stimulant such as soap, your doctor may suggest other products to reduce the burning sensation.

How can vaginal infections be prevented?

Not all vaginal infections are preventable. Using a condom during sexual intercourse helps prevent sexually transmitted diseases and reduces their risk. Genital hygiene plays a very important role in preventing infection. It is best to avoid products such as soap that disrupt the natural flora of the vagina, and use a feminine hygienic gel or vaginal cleanser instead. It is best to always use cotton underwear to reduce inflammation and irritation of the vagina. Also, do not wear tight underwear as there will be no airflow in the genital area.

Concluding remarks

Symptoms of a vaginal infection vary depending on whether the cause is bacterial or fungal. However, some symptoms are common, such as increased vaginal discharge or burning and itching. In many cases, some women are completely unaware that they have a vaginal infection because they have not experienced any symptoms at all. If you have any of the symptoms listed in this office, make an appointment with an experienced gynecologist as soon as possible.