What is Vaginitis (Vaginal Inflammation)? How Is Vaginal Inflammation Treated?

Vaginitis is inflammation of the mucous membrane in the vaginal area caused by infection or irritation. This inflammation can cause symptoms such as discharge, itching, burning and sometimes pain. Vaginitis is usually caused by infections such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection or trichomoniasis, but it can also be caused by chemical irritants, allergic reactions or hormonal changes.

Inflammation of the vagina can occur in any age group, but sexually active women, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.

 

What are the symptoms of inflammation of the vagina?

The most common symptoms, which may vary depending on the type and severity of the inflammation, are as follows:

Discharge: The most common symptom of inflammation of the vagina is discharge. This discharge may have a different smell than usual and may change color in time. For example, in the case of bacterial vaginosis, the discharge may be gray-white in color and have a fishy smell.

Itching: Vaginitis often causes itching in the vaginal area. This itching is especially common with fungal infections and can be uncomfortable.

Burning sensation: A burning sensation may occur in the inflamed vaginal area when urinating or during sexual intercourse. This symptom occurs especially when the related tissues are irritated.

Redness: Redness and swelling may occur around the vagina. This is a common symptom of vaginitis and usually depends on the severity of the inflammation.

Pain: Pain may be felt in the vaginal area during sexual intercourse or during daily activities. This pain is caused by tenderness caused by inflammation.

Discomfort when urinating: Inflammation of the vagina can cause discomfort and pain when urinating. This can be a sign of an infection that has spread to the urinary tract.

Bad odor: A common symptom of vaginitis is a bad odor in the vaginal area. Especially in the case of bacterial vaginosis, this odor becomes prominent and can disturb the person.

What causes vaginitis?

Vaginal inflammation can have many different causes, and these causes are often associated with infections, chemical irritants or hormonal changes.

Bacterial infections: Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common causes of inflammation of the vagina. This condition occurs when the number of healthy bacteria in the vaginal flora decreases and harmful bacteria proliferates.

Fungal infections: The fungus Candida albicans can cause vaginal yeast infections, which can lead to inflammation. This infection can be triggered by factors such as antibiotic use, pregnancy or diabetes.

Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that can causevaginitis. This infection is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis and is usually transmitted from sexual partners.

Chemical irritants: Chemical products such as perfumed soaps, shower gels, deodorants or body sprays can irritate vaginal tissues and cause inflammation.

Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions can develop in the vaginal area due to allergens such as latex condoms, certain detergents or hygiene products.

Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as menopause, pregnancy or the use of birth control pills, can increase the sensitivity of vaginal tissues and lead to inflammation.

Sexually transmitted infections: Sexually transmitted infections can cause inflammation of the vagina. These infections include diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and herpes.
Each of these causes can play a role in the development of inflammation of the vagina and treatment is tailored to the cause of the inflammation.

How is vaginal inflammation treated?

In the treatment of inflammation of the vagina, medication is usually preferred as the first step. Antibiotics, antifungal creams and antimicrobial drugs are prescribed according to the type of underlying infection.

These medications can help to reduce symptoms quickly and prevent the infection from spreading.

Vaginal probiotics must be used to restore the ideal balance of vaginal flora and prevent recurrence of inflammation.

These probiotics promote vaginal health by increasing the number of healthy bacteria. In addition, paying attention to diet and stress management can also contribute positively to the treatment process.

Surgical intervention is considered a last option in cases of unresponsive or chronic vaginal inflammation.

Surgical procedures include procedures such as removal of inflamed tissues and are usually performed in cases of serious complications.

It is important to continue regular follow-up and treatment during the recovery period after surgery.