A Condition Not to Be Ignored
Many women, viewing vaginitis as a minor inconvenience, turn to over-the-counter creams or suppositories for self-treatment. However, this approach can be risky. Certain types of vaginitis are contagious or carry the potential for complications like pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or preterm birth if left untreated. Early diagnosis, appropriate medical intervention, and consistent lifestyle adjustments are critical to managing the condition effectively.
Causes: From Hormonal Shifts to Hygiene Practices
Vaginitis arises when the delicate balance of the vaginal ecosystem is disrupted. A healthy vaginal environment, maintained by Lactobacillus bacteria, keeps the pH between 4.0 and 4.5, creating an acidic barrier against harmful pathogens. However, factors like menopause, exposure to semen, or excessive use of vaginal cleansers can shift the vaginal pH toward alkalinity, fostering the growth of harmful bacteria.
Four Common Types of Vaginitis and Their Characteristics
Vaginitis manifests in several forms, each with distinct causes and symptoms:
- Candida Vaginitis: This yeast infection, caused by Candida albicans, affects about 75% of women at least once. It is characterized by white, cheese-like discharge and intense itching. While odor is typically minimal, painful intercourse or urination may occur. Risk factors include diabetes, antibiotic use, and pregnancy, which elevate estrogen levels.
- Bacterial Vaginosis: This results from an imbalance in vaginal flora, allowing harmful bacteria to proliferate. Symptoms include thin, yellowish or grayish-white discharge with a fishy odor. Itching is usually mild, but the condition can progress to cervicitis or pelvic inflammatory disease, potentially leading to infertility or chronic pelvic pain. Asymptomatic cases can make early detection challenging.
- Trichomonas Vaginitis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by a protozoan, this type presents with frothy, yellow discharge, a foul odor, itching, and painful urination. If untreated, it can lead to cystitis or pelvic inflammatory disease and increases the risk of preterm birth in pregnant women. Its contagious nature underscores the need for prompt treatment.
- Atrophic Vaginitis: Common after menopause due to declining estrogen levels, this condition causes vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and occasional bleeding. Inflammatory discharge, often pale yellow or green, may also occur. Though symptoms may start mild, they can significantly impair quality of life.
Treatment varies by type. Candida vaginitis is typically managed with antifungal agents like oral fluconazole, vaginal suppositories, or creams. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole, administered orally or as a vaginal gel or cream. Trichomonas vaginitis requires antibiotics, and because it is sexually transmitted, simultaneous treatment of partners is essential. For atrophic vaginitis, estrogen-based creams, suppositories, or oral hormone replacement therapy can be effective, often supplemented with vaginal moisturizers or lubricants for symptom relief.
Prevention hinges on maintaining vaginal bacterial balance. Consuming Lactobacillus probiotic supplements can help restore beneficial flora. Hygiene is equally vital: washing the vaginal area with lukewarm water once or twice daily, avoiding excessive use of cleansers, and opting for breathable cotton underwear are recommended. Changing out of wet clothing promptly, especially after exercise, also reduces risk.
Diet plays a role as well. Reducing refined sugar intake and prioritizing vegetables and protein-rich foods can bolster immunity, helping to prevent infections.
Haeun Oh, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
