Different Types of Vaginal Infections and Treatments

What Is vaginal infections?

Vaginal infections happen when harmful germs like bacteria, fungi (yeast), parasites, or viruses grow too much in the vagina. Normally, some of these germs are present and don’t cause any problems, but sometimes they can cause an infection.

Here are some things that can increase your chances of getting a vaginal infection:

• Being sexually active: Especially if you recently had a new sexual partner.
• Using vaginal products: Things like douches (which wash out the vagina), scented soaps, bubble baths, deodorants, or wipes can disrupt the natural balance in your vagina.
• Taking antibiotics: These medications kill bacteria, but they can also upset the natural balance, leading to infections.
• Certain birth control methods: For example, using a copper IUD (a device placed inside the uterus for birth control) can increase risk.
• Health issues: Conditions like diabetes or HIV can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infections.
• Long-term steroid use: These medications can also affect your immunity.

Some common vaginal problems are sexually transmitted infections (STIs), meaning you can catch them from having unprotected sex with someone who has an infection. It’s important to note that a vaginal infection is different from a urinary tract infection (UTI), which affects your bladder and urinary system. The vagina is part of the reproductive system, while the urinary tract is separate.

Types Of Vaginal Infection

Some of the most common vaginal infections include the following.

• Bacterial Vaginosis: This is the most common vaginal infection. It happens when the normal bacteria in the vagina grow too much. It’s not contagious but is related to being sexually active. The symptoms usually include a thin, gray or white discharge that smells fishy.
• Chlamydia: This is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the UK. It is caused by bacteria. Symptoms can include more vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods or after having sex, and pain when urinating or during sex.
• Genital Herpes: This infection is caused by the herpes virus and is spread through sexual contact. It can cause sores or warts to appear around the vulva (the outer part of the female genitalia), cervix (the lower part of the uterus), vagina, or anus.
• Genital Warts: These are also caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are transmitted through sexual contact. They appear as warts in the same areas as genital herpes.
• Gonorrhea: This is another STI caused by bacteria. Symptoms may include increased discharge, pain in the lower abdomen, painful urination, and bleeding between periods.
• Thrush: This is a fungal infection that is quite common. It can cause itching or soreness around the vulva and might lead to a thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese.
• Trichomoniasis: This infection is caused by a tiny parasite. Symptoms often include a yellow-green, smelly, and sometimes frothy vaginal discharge.

It’s important to know that you can have more than one infection at the same time. For example, if a woman has bacterial vaginosis, she might also be more likely to get other infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea.

Additionally, it's normal for women to have some vaginal discharge, which can change during their menstrual cycle, with age, when taking birth control pills, or if they are pregnant. However, if there is an unusual change in discharge along with other symptoms, it could indicate an infection. If someone thinks they have a vaginal infection, they should see a doctor (GP) or go to our best gynecology hospital in Mumbai at DR Hiranandani Hospital. Our doctor can help diagnose and treat the infection.

Treatment of Common Vaginal Infections

Some infections, like genital warts, can go away on their own without treatment. However, other infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis, need treatment because they can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. These health problems can include difficulty getting pregnant, ongoing pain in the pelvic area, and complications during pregnancy. It's important to see top gynecologists in Mumbai or visit a sexual health clinic to get the correct diagnosis so that you can receive the right treatment based on the type of infection you have. Here are some common treatments for different infections:

• Antibiotics:These are medicines used to treat bacterial infections like bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. You usually take these antibiotics as pills for about a week. For bacterial vaginosis, you might use an antibiotic gel or cream that you put in your vagina instead.
• Antiviral medicines:These are used for treating genital herpes. They can help heal blisters caused by the virus but won't completely get rid of the virus from your body. Once you have the virus, it stays in your body and may cause symptoms to come back later.
• Creams and ointments:For genital warts, you can use special creams or ointments to help remove them. Sometimes, a doctor might need to provide treatment if the warts don’t go away.
• Antifungal tablets:These are used for thrush (a type of fungal infection). You usually only need to take one tablet, but it may take a week or two for the symptoms to completely go away. You can also find creams or pessaries (which are inserted into the vagina) that you can use for two to three days. These can often be bought at a pharmacy without a prescription. However, if you are pregnant, it’s best to consult your doctor first.

Some people try home remedies, like using natural probiotic yogurt or tea tree oil to relieve symptoms of thrush. However, there is no strong evidence that these remedies work. In fact, tea tree oil and other essential oils can sometimes irritate the skin and might make symptoms worse, so it's better to avoid using them.

Prevention of Common Vaginal Infections

Most of the vaginal infections can be caused by having sex with someone who is infected. These infections include chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, genital warts, and herpes.

Using a condom during sex helps protect against many sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It's also a good idea to get tested for STIs before you have sex with a new partner, and you should encourage them to get tested too. This way, you both know if you're healthy or if there is a risk of passing on an infection.

Additionally, you can lower your chances of getting some vaginal infections, like thrush and bacterial vaginosis, by not using certain hygiene products around your vagina. These products include scented soaps, shower gels, bath oils, douches, and special vaginal washes. Many of these products can irritate the vagina, which can lead to infections. So, it's better to keep the area clean with just water instead of using these products.

Related: Understanding Menstrual Cycle: Phases of Your Cycle

Understanding the different types of vaginal infections is essential for effective prevention and treatment. If you experience symptoms of a vaginal infection, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment for vaginal infections. Early intervention can prevent complications and help maintain your overall reproductive health. Always prioritize safe sex practices and regular check-ups to ensure a healthy lifestyle.