Vaginitis is a condition that refers to the swelling or infection of the vagina that is not confined to any age and can affect any female. The condition can be a result of various factors such as infections, contact with irritants, or changes in the balance of bacteria in the vagina that can result in itching, discomfort, pain, and abnormal discharge. Depending on the intensity, the condition can be chronic or acute and can lead to various issues for which you might need to visit an IVF centre in Punjab. 

Who is more likely to get vaginitis?

Vaginitis can affect females of all ages, whether it is a young girl who is just beginning her journey of menstruation or a woman who has reached the phase of menopause or postmenopause. Several factors can be responsible for increasing the risk of vaginitis, such as hygiene, sexual activity, pregnancy, weaker immune system, changes in hormones, or specific medical conditions and disorders. 

Types of vaginitis 

There are a number of different types of vaginitis, and all of them took place due to a different cause. Some of the most common types of vaginitis include: 

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV): This type of vaginitis takes place due to an increase in the growth of a certain kind of bacteria that affects the natural balance. 
• Yeast infections: this happens due to excessive growth of yeast candida in the vagina. 
• Trichomoniasis: caused by Trichomonas Vaginalis, this type of vaginitis happens due to this sexually transmitted infection. 
• Atrophic vaginitis: This type of condition occurs in women in the phase of post-menopause due to decreased levels of estrogen. 

Causes of vaginitis

The type of vaginitis determines the cause of it. These include:

• Lack of balance in vaginal bacteria
• Excessive growth of yeast, often candida
• Involvement of sexual activity with an individual who is infected. 
• A decrease in the level of estrogen due to menopause

Symptoms of vaginitis

The symptoms of vaginitis can be irritating and uncomfortable. Some of the common types of symptoms are: 

• Unusual vaginal discharge in terms of colour, consistency and odour
• Irritation and itching in the vaginal area
• Painful sexual intercourse
• Discomfort or pain during urination
• Inflammation and redness around the vagina

Is fertility affected by vaginitis?

Usually, vaginitis does not cause any direct impact on fertility; however, it can indirectly affect fertility if not taken care of, as it can become chronic and cause severe complications. The reproductive organs can potentially be affected by several infections and inflammation in case they spread and remain untreated for a long time, which can lead to consulting the best IVF centre in Srinagar. 

What are the methods to diagnose vaginitis?

The diagnosis of vaginitis includes identifying and evaluating various symptoms, pelvic examinations and various additional tests such as: 

• Physical examination: the vaginal area is examined to identify signs of inflammation or infection by a gynaecologist. 
• Microscopic examination: The type of infection is identified under a microscope by examining the vaginal discharge
• Ph test: to identify the type of vaginitis, the Ph level of the vagina is examined. 

Treatment for vaginitis

The type and severity of the condition determine the treatment for vaginitis. Along with these treatments, one might also need to visit an IVF centre in Punjab if they face any fertility issues due to vaginitis. Some of the treatments for vaginitis are:

• Antibiotics or antifungal: antibiotics or antifungal medicinal treatment may be prescribed based on the type of infection. 
• Topical creams or suppositories: The infection may be treated directly by these as they can help to ease the symptoms. 
• Hormonal therapy: in the case of atrophic vaginitis, the estrogen level can be balanced with the help of hormonal therapy. 

These are some of the symptoms and causes that can help you determine and identify the type of vaginitis. Be sure to take the right measures for it, as if left untreated, vaginitis can result in various other complications.