Vaginal Yeast Infection: Recognizing a Vaginitis

Dr. Claude Allouche, Gynecologist
Ahuza Clinic, Raanana
Phone: 058 726 02 64

What is Vaginitis?

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can be caused by:

  • A vaginal infection: caused by a fungus, bacteria, virus, or parasite.
  • Non-infectious irritation of the vagina.

It is often accompanied by irritation of the vulva, hence the term vulvovaginitis. This condition affects almost all women at least once in their life and can also affect young girls.

Causes of Vaginitis

1. Infectious Vaginitis

Infectious vaginitis is the most common type. It typically results from an imbalance in the normal vaginal flora, allowing germs that are usually absent to proliferate.

  • Vaginal Yeast Infection (50% of cases): Yeast infection is usually caused by Candida Albicans, referred to as vaginal candidiasis.
  • Other germs:
    • Parasites (e.g., Trichomonas)
    • Bacteria (e.g., Mycoplasma, Gardnerella vaginalis, Chlamydia, Gonococcus)
    • Viruses (e.g., genital herpes)

Some vaginites are sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as those caused by herpes virus, Chlamydia, Trichomonas, etc.

2. Non-Infectious Vaginitis

About one-third of vaginitis cases are not caused by infections. They can result from:

  • Irritation due to chemicals: such as body wash, soaps, lubricants, spermicides, etc.
  • Mechanical irritation: from tight clothing, synthetic underwear, sanitary pads, etc.
  • Skin diseases: psoriasis, eczema, etc.
  • Vulvovaginitis in postmenopausal women: menopause can cause vaginal dryness, making the mucous membranes more susceptible to irritation.

Symptoms of Vaginitis

Vaginitis symptoms can vary, but often include:

  • Itching and burning: in the vulva and vagina, with swelling, redness, and pain.
  • Vaginal discharge:
    • Whitish, thick (yeast infection)
    • Grayish, foul-smelling (bacterial vaginitis)
    • Foamy (parasitic vaginitis)
    • No discharge in non-infectious vaginitis or genital herpes cases.
  • Urinary and sexual problems: pain during intercourse, burning when urinating, etc.

Normal vaginal discharge is different, odorless, and varies depending on the menstrual cycle.

Contributing Factors

Several factors can contribute to vaginitis:

  • Clothing and intimate hygiene: Tight pants, synthetic underwear, or excessive intimate hygiene can cause irritation.
  • Sexual activity: Sexual intercourse can cause irritation and be a vector for transmitting infections.
  • Medications and health conditions: Antibiotics, immune-suppressing medications, and conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of vaginal infections.

Vaginitis in Young Girls

In young girls, vulvovaginitis is common and can be caused by factors such as:

  • Incomplete hygiene or using irritating soaps.
  • Urinary tract infections and pinworms.
  • The presence of a foreign object in the vagina (e.g., a forgotten tampon).

In case of foul-smelling discharge, an urgent consultation is recommended.

For more information, visit my website: claude-allouche.com
Source: Ameli