Vaginitis

What is vaginitis? 

Vaginitis is the medical name for swelling, burning, itching, or an infection of the vagina. When the vulva is also affected, it is called vulvovaginitis. (The vulva is the fold of skin around the opening of the vagina.) Vaginitis is a very common problem that can occur in females of any age.

How does it occur? 

Vaginitis can be caused by organisms that infect the vagina, such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, or yeast. It can also be caused by irritants such as soap, powders, or lubricants.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that cause vaginal infections are:

• trichomoniasis
• chlamydial infections
• gonorrhea
• syphilis
• genital herpes
• human papillomavirus.

Yeast infections of the vagina are caused by overgrowth of a fungus called Candida. Vaginitis can also be caused by an overgrowth of bacteria normally found in the vagina. This is a condition called bacterial vaginosis or nonspecific vaginitis.

Irritants that can cause vaginitis include:

• birth control products such as condoms, diaphragms, and spermicides
• feminine hygiene products such as perfumed sprays, powders, or douches
• perfumed soaps, detergents, or fabric softeners
• nonabsorbent, heat-retaining clothing such as nylon pantyhose and tights
• antibiotics
• tampons
• sexual devices
• injury.

Vaginitis can also be caused by psychological stress, poor hygiene, or a decrease in estrogen hormone.

Sometimes the cause of vaginitis is not known.