Vaginitis

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina. It is often caused by infections, some of which are associated with serious diseases. The most common vaginal infections are

• Bacterial Vaginosis
• Trichomoniasis
• Vaginal Yeast Infection

Some vaginal infections are transmitted through sexual contact, but others, such as yeast infections, probably are not.

Other Causes of Vaginitis

Although most vaginal infections in women are due to bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or yeast, there may be other causes as well. These causes include other sexually transmitted diseases, allergic reactions, and irritations.

Allergic symptoms can be caused by spermicides, vaginal hygiene products, detergents, and fabric softeners. Inflammation of the cervix (opening to the womb) from these products often is associated with abnormal vaginal discharge, but healthcare providers can tell them apart from true vaginal infections by doing lab tests.

Reference: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. http://www.niaid.nih.gov/topics/vaginitis/Pages/default.aspx