Vagina Infections
By: Tsou JinyeuTotal Views: 97, Word Count: 666,
Vaginal infections are seen when microorganisms like fungi, bacteria and virus grow around the area. Vaginal yeast infection is very commonly seen and is caused by certain species of yeast. This occurs when the acidity level of the vagina lowers due to some reason. A normal and healthy female of child bearing age has vaginal discharge. The color, amount, frequency of discharge changes according to your menstrual cycle, sexual excitement and stages of pregnancy.
Causes of vaginal infection
Vaginal infections are commonly seen in nearly 28 % females. For example vagina yeast infection is very common. Some bacteria are already present and live naturally in the vagina. They produce some acids which prevent the infection of harmful bacteria, fungi and virus. Problem begins, when they start to grow more than usual.
Some times, vaginal infection occurs when the harmful microorganisms are transmitted during sexual intercourse.
A foreign body like a forgotten tampon can cause vaginal infection. It causes unpleasant discharge and some times may cause a very serious situation called as “toxic shock syndrome”
Urinary tract infection if not treated may also be the cause of vaginal infection.
Symptoms of vaginal infection
- An unpleasant fishy odor
- Pain in the vaginal area
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Abdominal bleeding
- Swelling, redness, lumps, blisters or ulceration of the vulva
- Painful urination
- Itching of the area
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
Diagnosis of vaginal infection
When you see the symptoms of vaginal infection, consult your gynecologist, genitor-urinary medicine or the nearest health clinic. Correct diagnosis of your vaginal infection is very important as it will decide the line of treatment. Your gynecologist will examine the infected area and take a swab for analysis. A urine test may also be necessary to look for signs of infection with bacteria that cause Chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Types of vaginal infection
Thrust: thrust is caused by the infection of Candida albicans. These are normally seen in the vagina, troubles starts when they start growing abnormally causing thrust.
Bacterial vaginosis: It is caused due to overgrowth of bacteria normally found in vagina Bacterial vaginosis causes vaginal discharge in women of child bearing age and is responsible for miscarriages. The discharge is thin and grey with a fishy smell.
Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is caused by the infection of protozoa. A heavy, frothy yellow green discharge with a fishy smell is seen. It causes vaginal itching, vaginal pain, stomach pain and discomfort during sex. It may cause infertility, increase risk of transmission of HIV, premature labor and low birth weight babies.
Chlamydia: Chlamydia is the most common sexual transmitted disease. It is caused by Chlamydia trachoma is that are responsible for the destruction of cell lining of cervix and other tissues. It causes painful urination, bleeding after sex and infertility.
Gonorrhoea: Gonorrhoea is caused due to bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoea. Vaginal discharge along with painful urination occurs in early stages.
Treatment for vaginal infection
- Most of them are sexually transmitted diseases; hence use of a condom is must
- Take help of your gynecologist and get medical treatment
- Avoid sex with multiple partners
- Avoid use of harsh and heavily perfumed soaps and shower gels, feminine hygiene sprays
- Use antibiotic like metronidazole (cream or gel)
- Wear cotton pants and maintain vaginal hygiene
Vaginal infections cause vaginal discharge, painful urination and other things. Vaginal yeast infection is the most common vaginal infection. You should look into the causes of vaginal infection and take precautionary measures.
About the Author
Dr. Tsou Jinyeu is a well known gynecologist and has been in this field since 1995. His special interests are – genetic and birth defects, high risk obstetrics, lupus in pregnancy, premature labour, premature delivery, triplets and ultrasound diagnosis. He is graduated from the University Of Illinois College Of Medicine. Nowdays he is working as a medical doctor at Elmhurst Loyola Center for Health
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