Vaginal Infections: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and
Treatments
Vaginal infections are among the most common gynecological problems affecting women of all
ages. They may result from bacterial, fungal, parasitic, or viral causes and can produce symptoms
like discharge, itching, irritation, or odor. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid
complications and recurrence.
1. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Cause: Overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria (e.g., Gardnerella vaginalis) replacing normal
Lactobacillus species.
Symptoms: Thin, grayish-white discharge, fishy odor, mild irritation.
Diagnosis: Vaginal pH > 4.5, presence of clue cells on microscopy, positive whiff test.
Treatment: Metronidazole 500 mg orally twice daily for 7 days or Clindamycin 2% cream
intravaginally for 7 days.
Prevention: Avoid douching, maintain good hygiene, limit multiple sexual partners.
2. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)
Cause: Overgrowth of Candida albicans (fungal pathogen).
Symptoms: Thick, white, cottage-cheese-like discharge, intense itching, redness, burning during
urination or sex.
Diagnosis: Microscopy (KOH prep showing budding yeast and hyphae), culture confirmation.
Treatment: Fluconazole 150 mg orally (single dose) or topical azole antifungal cream for 7–14
days.
Prevention: Keep genital area dry, avoid tight clothing, limit antibiotic overuse.
3. Trichomoniasis
Cause: Infection by Trichomonas vaginalis, a flagellated protozoan parasite.
Symptoms: Frothy yellow-green discharge, foul odor, vaginal irritation, strawberry cervix on
examination.
Diagnosis: Microscopy (motile trichomonads), nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT).
Treatment: Metronidazole 2 g orally single dose or Tinidazole 2 g single dose.
Prevention: Use of condoms, treatment of sexual partners simultaneously.
4. Viral Vaginitis
Cause: Primarily due to Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) or Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Symptoms: Painful ulcers or lesions (HSV), warts or growths (HPV), discomfort, discharge.
Diagnosis: Viral PCR test, Pap smear, or colposcopy.
Treatment: HSV – Acyclovir or Valacyclovir; HPV – cryotherapy, laser ablation, or topical agents.
Prevention: HPV vaccination, safe sexual practices, early medical evaluation of genital sores.
5. Atrophic Vaginitis (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause)
Cause: Estrogen deficiency leading to thinning of vaginal mucosa in postmenopausal women.
Symptoms: Dryness, itching, burning, dyspareunia (painful intercourse), recurrent urinary tract
infections.
Diagnosis: Clinical evaluation, pH > 5.0, absence of infection.
Treatment: Local estrogen therapy (cream, tablet, or ring), vaginal moisturizers and lubricants.
Prevention: Hormone therapy under medical supervision, adequate hydration, avoiding irritants.
Conclusion:
Proper diagnosis is essential for effective management of vaginal infections. Self-medication should
be avoided. Medical consultation ensures correct therapy and reduces recurrence risk. Maintaining
hygiene, using protection, and timely screening can prevent most infections.