Vaginal Infections – What You Need to Know

When dealing with vaginal infections, inflammation or microbial imbalance inside the vaginal canal that can cause discharge, itching, or odor. Also known as vaginitis, it often stems from yeast infection, an overgrowth of Candida fungi, bacterial vaginosis, a shift in the normal bacterial flora toward anaerobes, or trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted protozoal infection. Recognizing that vaginal infections encompass these three main sub‑types lets you focus on the right test and avoid blanket treatments.

Common Types, Their Signs, and How They’re Treated

Yeast infection usually shows thick, white “cottage‑cheese” discharge and intense itching. A short course of over‑the‑counter or prescription antifungal creams, such as clotrimazole or fluconazole, restores balance quickly. Bacterial vaginosis, on the other hand, produces a thin gray‑white discharge with a fishy smell, especially after sex. The first‑line therapy is metronidazole or clindamycin, which target the anaerobic bacteria responsible for the pH shift. Trichomoniasis often leads to frothy yellow‑green discharge, irritation, and sometimes painful urination; a single dose of metronidazole or tinidazole clears the infection in most cases, but both partners need treatment to prevent reinfection. Beyond medication, several adjunct strategies improve outcomes. Keeping vaginal pH between 3.8 and 4.5 reduces the risk of bacterial overgrowth, so avoid harsh soaps or douches that raise the pH. Probiotic supplements containing Lactobacillus strains can help re‑populate healthy flora after antibiotic use. Wearing breathable cotton underwear and changing out of wet clothes promptly lowers moisture that fungi love. For sexually active individuals, consistent condom use cuts down on trichomoniasis transmission and lowers bacterial vaginosis recurrence.

Understanding the cause‑specific nature of vaginal infections means you can match symptoms to the right therapy rather than guessing. Below you’ll find articles that walk through each condition in detail, compare treatment options, and share practical tips you can apply today. Whether you’re looking for quick relief from a yeast flare‑up or need a step‑by‑step guide to treating bacterial vaginosis, the collection ahead covers the full spectrum of vaginal health topics.