Are you experiencing some pain, irritation, and discomfort in your vagina? Or maybe you’re stressed about the amount and color change of the discharge from your vagina. You’re probably trying to figure out why you feel so much pain during sex.
There’s no doubt but, most women struggle to find out what could have gone with the most delicate and essential part of the body, the vagina. Besides, you can’t feel good if there’s an unpleasant smell coming out of your most valued feature. Or if you constantly feel a burning sensation down there.
But here is the good news! This article elaborates on vaginal infections, their causes, and symptoms to help you identify a condition should you experience one. Even better, it outlines the best treatment option for each.
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What Causes Vaginal Infections
Several factors would cause inflammation and infections in your vagina. However, the signs and symptoms of vaginal infections would vary depending on the cause. Here are some of the reasons to watch:
Bacterial Infections
Some bacteria found in the vagina may cause overgrowth or inflammation. Amongst them are;
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the overgrowth of the normal bacteria found in the vagina. BV might be present without symptoms, but if they occur, you may experience:
- Grey or white, watery and thin vaginal discharge
- Burning and itching of the vagina and the vulva
- Strong unpleasant or fishy smell from your vagina
- Itching and scratching around the vagina
- Pain during sex
If not treated, BV would increase your risk of HIV infection as it makes you susceptible to the virus. Also, it exposes you to complications or diseases like Herpes simplex virus, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
Other bacterial infections include:
Gonorrhea and chlamydia are sexually transmitted infections that sometimes don’t show signs and symptoms unless you go for STD testing and screening. But, after some weeks, you may experience or notice the following symptoms;
- Bleeding
- Pain during sex and while urinating
- Green, yellow or white discharge
- Pelvic pain
- Inflammation of the labia
If these bacterial infections are not treated, they may result in severe complications like infertility and pelvic inflammatory Diseases, limiting your chances of giving birth.
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Yeast Infections
These are usually caused by a fungus known as Candida albicans. These infections happen once the Candida species gets into the mucosal lining of your vagina, causing inflammation.
Symptoms of Candidiasis include;
- Sores and pain in the vagina
- Burning sensation during intercourse or urination
- Itching, irritation, and burning of the vulva or the vagina
- Thick white watery and cottage-like odorless discharge
- Rash and flushing around the vagina
Using antibiotics would help manage or reduce the discomfort of the above symptoms. However, it would help if you visited your doctor for further advice.
Viral Infections
Some vaginal infections may result from genital warts, herpes, and Human papillomavirus (HPV). You may contract these infections through sexual intercourse or direct/skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or fluid-containing bloodborne pathogens.
With genital herpes, you may experience symptoms such as;
- Sores or painful ulcers on the genitals
- Inflammation or swelling of the vulva
Genital warts symptoms include:
- Bleeding warts or bumps around the vagina
- Irritation or flushing itching and discomfort
On treatment, there is no known cure for genital warts and herpes. Still, antiviral therapy is done to help manage their symptoms.
Another condition that causes vaginal discharge is;
Trichomoniasis
Trich is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a protozoan parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis. About 70% of individuals with this infection would have no signs, but some would show symptoms between the first 5-28 days. Those who experience signs may have:
- Sore, itchy, and burning genitals
- Increase in the volume of the vaginal discharge
- Green or yellow discharge, which sometimes changes to clear
- Discomfort and irritation while urinating
Antibiotics like tinidazole and metronidazole, among other antibiotics, are enough to help manage the symptoms.
Noninfectious Vaginitis
These are vaginal infections resulting from irritants and reactions of the vagina to specific substances. Some things that may cause allergy or conditions to the vagina include latex condoms, sperm fluids, lubricants, and cosmetics.
Conclusion
Vagina infections may result from viruses, bacteria, or yeast, and some would be due to irritants causing the allergy. Some disorders cause irritation, discomfort, and irritation and sometimes may reduce your ability to handle your regular operation. Consult your doctor in case of any suspicious feeling around or on your vagina.