Vaginitis Specialist

What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is the term for irritation to your vagina or vulva. Almost everyone with a vagina experiences vaginitis at some point. It can cause swelling, burning, itching, or an infection in the vagina. Depending on the cause of your vaginitis, you may experience other symptoms unique to your diagnosis.

What causes vaginitis?

Vaginitis occurs when the normal bacterial levels in your vagina change. Under normal circumstances, your vagina has both “good” and “bad” bacteria, and the good bacteria usually prevent the bad bacteria from spreading. Sometimes you have too many of the bad bacteria, which can cause symptoms and possibly infection in your vagina.

Certain things can cause an imbalance in the ratio between good and bad bacteria, such as:

• Antibiotics
• Douching
• Tight pants
• Damp underwear
• Poor diet
• Vaginal products, including sprays, lubricants, and birth control devices
• Pregnancy
• Sex
• Trichomoniasis, a type of STD

Your provider can help you determine the cause of your vaginitis symptoms based on your medical history and provide you with strategies to prevent your symptoms from returning after treatment.

What are the signs of vaginitis?

In addition to vaginal itching, burning, and swelling, other symptoms of vaginitis include:

• White or grey colored pasty vaginal discharge with a fishy smell
• Frothy, yellow-green colored discharge with a bad odor or spots of blood in it
• Thick, white, odorless discharge
• Burning with urination
• Redness of the vulva
• Pain or discomfort during sex

Some symptoms may resemble those of STDs, so it’s best to be tested at Schaumburg Immediate Care to determine exactly what’s causing your discomfort.

How is vaginitis diagnosed?

Symptoms of vaginitis can easily go unnoticed in mild cases, but if you’re uncomfortable or experiencing abnormal discharge, your provider examines your pelvic area, tests a sample of your discharge under a microscope, and may collect a urine sample. All of these tests are performed in the office while you wait so you can get treatment as quickly as possible.

How is vaginitis treated?

Treatment for vaginitis depends on your symptoms, the severity of your discomfort, and your diagnosis. Common treatment options include:

• Prescription creams
• Suppositories that are placed inside your vagina
• Vaginal tablets
• Prescription medications, including antibiotics

You may also need to stop using certain body products, including lotions, lubricants, or soaps to reduce the irritation to your vagina and vulva.

To get tested and treated for vaginitis, call or click to book an appointment at Schaumburg Immediate Care now. Walk-ins are also welcome.