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Can a yeast infection turn into an std. STD vs. Yeast Infection | Symptoms & Causes

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What is the difference between an STD and a yeast infection? Discover the symptoms, causes, and key distinctions between these two common conditions.

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Understanding STDs and Yeast Infections

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and yeast infections are two distinct health conditions that can share similar symptoms. While both can lead to discomfort and potentially serious complications if left untreated, it’s crucial to understand the differences between the two in order to seek appropriate treatment.

What is an STD?

A sexually transmitted disease (STD), also known as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), is an infection that is transmitted through sexual contact, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex. STDs are caused by a variety of parasites, viruses, and bacteria that can be passed from one person to another during intimate physical activity. Some STDs, such as syphilis and HIV, can also be transmitted from a mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

It’s important to note that many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning that an infected individual may not experience any noticeable symptoms for weeks or even years. This makes regular STD testing crucial, as it’s possible to be contagious without realizing it. Some of the most common STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, hepatitis B and C, HIV, human papillomavirus (HPV), pubic lice, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.

What is a Yeast Infection?

A yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a fungal infection that occurs when the naturally occurring yeast in the body, Candida, grows excessively. Yeast infections can develop in warm, moist areas of the body, such as the vagina, mouth, skin folds, and even the penis. While yeast is normally present in small amounts, an overgrowth can lead to uncomfortable symptoms.

Shared Symptoms Between STDs and Yeast Infections

STDs and yeast infections share several common symptoms, which can make it challenging to distinguish between the two conditions. These shared symptoms include:

  • Itchiness
  • Irritation
  • Redness
  • Discharge
  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse

Distinguishing STDs from Yeast Infections

While STDs and yeast infections share some symptoms, there are a few key differences that can help you determine which condition you may be dealing with:

1. Sores or Blisters

One of the primary differences is that STDs, such as genital herpes and syphilis, can cause the development of sores, warts, or blisters. Yeast infections, on the other hand, do not typically result in visible sores.

2. Abnormal Discharge

Both conditions can cause abnormal genital discharge, but the color, appearance, and odor of the discharge can vary. Yeast infections often produce a thick, white, and cottage cheese-like discharge, while STD-related discharge may be more watery, yellow, or green, and may have a foul odor.

3. Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is more commonly associated with STDs, particularly conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can result from untreated STDs like chlamydia or gonorrhea. Yeast infections, on the other hand, typically do not cause severe pelvic pain.

4. Systemic Symptoms

STDs can sometimes cause more widespread, systemic symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. Yeast infections tend to be more localized, affecting only the specific area where the fungus has overgrown.

Causes of STDs and Yeast Infections

STDs are caused by the transmission of various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, during sexual activity. Yeast infections, on the other hand, are caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, which is naturally present in the body. Factors that can contribute to the development of a yeast infection include:

  • Antibiotic use
  • Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menopause
  • Diabetes
  • Weakened immune system
  • Tight, synthetic clothing that traps moisture

Testing and Diagnosis

If you are experiencing symptoms that could be indicative of either an STD or a yeast infection, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can perform tests, such as a physical exam, laboratory tests, or STD screening, to determine the underlying cause and provide the appropriate treatment.

For those who prefer the convenience of at-home testing, Everlywell offers a range of STD and yeast infection test kits that can be ordered online and completed in the privacy of your own home. These tests provide accurate results and can help you take the next steps in your healthcare journey.

STD vs. Yeast Infection | Symptoms & Causes

Medically reviewed on September 28, 2022 by Karen Jansen, MS, MD. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.

Table of contents

  • What is an STD?
  • What is a yeast infection?
  • Symptoms that STDs and yeast infections have in common
  • 4 differences in symptoms between STDs and yeast infections
  • STD vs. yeast infection: Comparing causes
  • Find out if it’s a yeast infection or an STD with Everlywell
  • Related content

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and yeast infections have plenty in common. With a range of similar symptoms, it’s understandable why many people have difficulties telling them apart.

However, recognizing one or the other is essential, as that knowledge can inform your next steps. STDs and yeast infections can worsen if left untreated, so it’s worth learning to distinguish one from the other.

To that end, we’re taking you through an STD vs. yeast infection comparison, touching on the symptoms and causes that can help you differentiate them.

Buy At-Home STD Tests

What is an STD?

A sexually transmitted disease (STD) or sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection that passes through sexual contact. When a person is infected with a parasite, virus, or strain of bacteria that causes an STD, they can give it to another person during oral, vaginal, or anal sex. The infection can also pass during intimate contact like kissing or touching. What happens if you have an STD while pregnant? An STI can pass from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Some STIs show no symptoms for weeks or months. Syphilis, for example, can lie dormant in the body for years without showing symptoms. [1] Other STIs cause only mild symptoms. Therefore, it is possible to be infected with an STD, and be contagious, and not be aware. This is why sexual health testing is so important.

It’s worth noting there are more than 30 types of STDs. Some of the most common are[12]:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Genital Herpes
  • Hepatitis B and C
  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
  • HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
  • Pubic lice
  • Syphilis
  • Trichomoniasis

What is the most common STD in the United States? The most common is HPV. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 2 in 5 people ages 15 to 59 years will have HPV.[2]

What is a yeast infection?

Yeast is a fungus that grows naturally in small amounts on the skin, inside the digestive tract, and in the vaginal area. In most cases, this fungus is entirely harmless. However, a yeast infection (also known as candidiasis), can occur when the yeast grows and multiplies out of control.

Yeast grows best in warm, moist places. As such, yeast infections may develop in several of the same areas of the body where STDs can occur, such as:

  • Between skin folds
  • The mouth (thrush)
  • The corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)
  • The navel
  • The vagina (yeast vaginitis)
  • The nail beds
  • The penis

Yeast infections that occur in the same places as STDs—the mouth, vagina, and penis—are the infections most often confused with STIs.

Symptoms that STDs and yeast infections have in common

It’s no wonder that many people are unsure if they have a yeast infection or an STD—both have many similar symptoms. These include: [3,4]

  • Itchiness
  • Irritation
  • Redness
  • Discharge
  • Pain or burning with urination
  • Pain or discomfort during sex

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, you may have a yeast infection, an STD, or another medical problem. With that said, you can look at other hints to form a clearer picture.

4 differences in symptoms between STDs and yeast infections

Although STDs and yeast infections share several symptoms, some signs point to only one of these health conditions. Understanding which symptoms are indicators of infection can help you determine whether you should take a test, see a healthcare provider, or visit a pharmacy.

With that in mind, let’s look at some symptoms that differ between yeast infections and STDs.

1. Sores or blisters

One telltale difference between an STD and a yeast infection is an STD may develop sores, warts, or blisters. Yeast infections of the mouth, vagina, or penis will not cause visible sores. For example:

  • Genital Herpes – The most apparent sign of herpes is the outbreak of a cluster of small blisters, over tender, red skin, on or near the genitals, rectum, or inner thighs.
  • Syphilis – Syphilis usually begins as a single painless sore (called a chancre) on the genitals, anus, or—more uncommonly—the mouth.
  • HPV – HPV may cause warts to appear on the mouth, throat, genitals, or anus.[5]

2. Abnormal discharge

Both yeast infections and various STDs can trigger abnormal discharge from the genitals, but the color, appearance, and odor of the vaginal discharge can differ.

In the case of a vaginal yeast infection, vaginal discharge is usually thin and watery or thick, white, and odor-free.[6] One factor to pay attention to is texture—the discharge from a yeast infection is often referred to as “cottage cheese-like.”

As for STDs, the discharge may differ depending on the STD. For example, gonorrhea can cause the penis to emit a cloudy white or yellow discharge.[7] It can also lead to discharge from the rectum (which is not a symptom of a yeast infection). With trichomoniasis, the discharge is more likely to be foamy, gray-green or yellow in color, and fishy in odor.[8] The discharge that may accompany a Chlamydia infection may also have a strong, unpleasant odor.

3. Cuts, cracks, or tears

You’re likely dealing with a yeast infection if you notice small tears or cracks over red skin around your vagina or penis.[6] Because the skin on these parts of the body is soft and sensitive, the irritative nature of a yeast infection can cause paper-cut-like markings on the affected areas. Similarly, cracks or cuts at the corners of the mouth often indicate an oral yeast infection.

STDs aren’t known to cause tiny cuts or cracks on the skin’s surface. While the itchiness caused by many STDs can encourage scratching and lead to an irritated genital area, tearing and cracking are uncommon.

4. Pain

Although yeast infections can be itchy and uncomfortable, they don’t tend to cause pain beyond the affected area. Having intercourse or peeing during a yeast infection may trigger a local “burning” sensation, but in general, a yeast infection does not cause pain elsewhere.

On the other hand, some STDs cause pain and tenderness in other areas of the body. Examples include:

  • Genital Herpes – The onset of genital herpes infection may include flu-like symptoms such as headaches and muscle aches.
  • Chlamydia – When chlamydia spreads, it can cause pain in the lower abdomen or testicles.[9]
  • Syphilis – Secondary-stage syphilis can lead to headaches and muscle pain, while syphilis that spreads to the eyes (ocular syphilis) can cause eye pain.[10]

5. Fever

When you start to experience multiple symptoms, it can be challenging to determine the root cause. However, one clue that can help you rule out a yeast infection is a fever.

Most yeast infections are considered “uncomplicated.” Because these infections are mild to moderate, they rarely come with a fever. The only exception is an “invasive” yeast infection. This severe form of yeast infection can lead to a fever; if you experience some of the telltale signs of a yeast infection along with a fever, consider contacting your medical provider right away.

A fever is much more likely to point to an STD. Fever is a well-known symptom of severe cases of:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • HIV
  • Secondary stage syphilis

Ultimately, if you experience a sustained fever, consult a healthcare provider—regardless of any other symptoms you may have.

STD vs. yeast infection: comparing causes

Another way to determine if you have a yeast infection or an STD is to consider the cause. While it is often impossible to trace an infection back to its beginning, you may be able to make an educated guess at the cause of your symptoms by thinking about your activity over the past few weeks or months.

Potential causes of STDs

The most common cause of STDs is unprotected sex. While condoms are not 100% effective, they can reduce the risk of spreading and catching STDs through sexual contact.

However, STDs don’t always pass from person to person during sex. Some STIs, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, are also bloodborne, meaning they can spread by entering the bloodstream. As such, sharing syringes, body piercing equipment, or tattooing devices can occasionally lead to a sexually transmitted disease.

Potential causes of yeast infections

Some of the possible causes of yeast infections include:

  • Recent antibiotic use – Yeast infections occur commonly in people who have taken antibiotics. As the antibiotic kills the offending bacteria, yeast may overgrow.
  • Uncontrolled diabetes – Increases in blood sugar level are associated with an increased risk of yeast infection.
  • Changes in hormones – If you’re pregnant or taking hormonal contraceptives (birth control), you may be more likely to experience a vaginal yeast infection.
  • Not allowing the body to dry off – Because yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, wearing wet swimsuits or sitting in a hot tub for long periods can increase your chances of developing a yeast infection.
  • A weakened immune system – Your immune system keeps fungi like yeast in check. When your immune system is altered due to chemotherapy, steroid medications, or a different infection, yeast infections become more likely.

Find out if it’s a yeast infection or an STD with Everlywell

Even when you know all the differences between yeast infections and STDs, it’s not always easy to determine what’s causing your symptoms—especially if those symptoms are causing you any stress.

For the peace of mind that comes with certainty, consider taking a confidential at-home STD test. When you take an Everlywell test, you can find out if it’s one of six common STDs or not within days of testing—no trip to the clinic required. We mail you a discreetly packaged sexual health test, and you send your sample back to our lab. You can also check for individual STIs with tests such as the trich test, Syphilis Test, and Hepatitis C Test.

Shop STD Tests Today!

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References

  1. Syphilis. Mayo Clinic. URL. Published September 25, 2021. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  2. HPV and Men – Fact Sheet. CDC. URL. Accessed September 30, 2022.
  3. Yeast infections. MedlinePlus. URL. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  4. Sexually transmitted diseases | STD | venereal disease. MedlinePlus. URL. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  5. Common STD symptoms. Mayo Clinic. URL. Published May 5, 2022. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  6. Yeast infection (vaginal). Mayo Clinic. URL. Published March 17, 2021. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  7. Gonorrhea | the clap. MedlinePlus. URL. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  8. Trichomoniasis | trich | STD. MedlinePlus. URL. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  9. Chlamydia infections | chlamydia | chlamydia symptoms. MedlinePlus. URL. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  10. STD facts – syphilis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. URL. Published February 10, 2022. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  11. Yeast infection on face or lips: Symptoms, causes, diagnosis & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. URL. Accessed September 28, 2022.
  12. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). World Health Organization. URL. Accessed October 10, 2022.

What You Need to Know

Women, Yeast Infections, and Sexual Activity

But yeast infections can share many of the same symptoms as some STIs or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as vaginal itching, burning, pain, and discharge. (1)

Given the prevalence of STDs and yeast infections, it’s not unreasonable for a woman to wonder if a yeast infection may increase her risk of other vaginal infections.

For the most part, yeast infections aren’t associated with the development of an STD. But by scratching to relieve vaginal itching, you may inadvertently create microscopic tears in the skin that allow bacteria or viruses that cause STDs to enter your body more easily. (2)

HIV and Vaginal Yeast Infections

Though yeast infections aren’t typically associated with STDs, they do have a well-known connection to HIV/AIDS, an STD that is often spread through sexual activity. HIV/AIDS can also be transmitted through direct contact of bodily fluids with an open wound or a tear in the skin and dirty needles.

HIV is a known risk factor for yeast infections — it suppresses the immune system, allowing opportunistic infections to take root. In women living with HIV, vaginal yeast infections occur more frequently and are more difficult to treat, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (3)

Some research also suggests that the connection works the other way around: vaginal yeast infections may increase a woman’s risk of getting HIV.

In one study, researchers looked at women who were not HIV positive but who were in a sexual relationship with someone who was.

They found that the women who eventually contracted HIV were significantly more likely to have had yeast infections.

They concluded that women in high-risk relationships should receive regular gynecological evaluation and be taught how to prevent yeast infections — and to treat them quickly when they do occur — to decrease their risk of HIV infection. (4)

Since yeast infections can irritate the vaginal lining even if you haven’t been scratching, it’s a good idea to use condoms if you plan to be sexually active while you have a yeast infection and don’t know the HIV status of your partner.

Of course, this is standard advice even when you don’t have a yeast infection.

Vaginal Yeast Infections and Safe Vaginal Sex

Generally, it’s recommended to wait to have sex until after your infection clears — which typically only takes one to seven days with antifungal medications. (1)

If you’re considering having sex while you have a vaginal yeast infection, it’s important to first consider the risks.

For one thing, the vaginal itching and burning associated with yeast infections may make sex uncomfortable or painful and increase vaginal burning and inflammation. (7)

Additionally, the friction involved with penetrative sex can cause tiny tears in the vagina, making you more susceptible to STDs.

Another thing that might hinder you from having sex is the yeast infection treatment method you’re using.

If you’re using creams to treat your vaginal yeast infection, it’s best to delay intercourse until the therapy is complete, as sex can essentially push the medication out of the vagina. (7)

What’s more, some medications contain oils that can break down condoms. (2) Condoms should generally only be used with water-based or silicone-based lubricants, otherwise they can be damaged and ineffective for STD and pregnancy prevention. Instructions for which type of lubricant is safe to use should be found on the condom package.

In general, yeast infections aren’t frequently spread from one partner to another during sex. Even so, there are situations where it does happen. (8)

Men, Yeast Infections, and Sexual Activity

It’s possible for men to get a yeast infection from a sex partner who also has an infection.

The risk of men getting a yeast infection through sex is low, but up to 15 percent of men may get an uncomfortable rash on their penis if they have unprotected sex with a woman who has a yeast infection.

The rate seems to be highest among men who are not circumcised and men with diabetes. (8)

In lesbian relationships, it’s possible that yeast infections may be spread from one partner to another through oral sex, although the issue has not yet been studied extensively.

In one study, researchers found that women were more likely to get repeat yeast infections if they recently engaged in cunnilingus (oral sex involving the vagina) or masturbated with saliva (theirs or their partner’s), though the study focused on heterosexual couples. (9)

If your partner (male or female) begins to experience any signs of a yeast infection, such as itching, burning, redness, or discharge, he or she should see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and begin treatment.

While less common, it’s also possible to get an anal yeast infection, due to many of the same factors that cause vaginal yeast infections, such as damp or tight-fitting clothing, poor hygiene, and excessive sweating. It can also be caused by a buildup of Candida in the intestines that travels into the anal canal. Like a vaginal yeast infection, an anal yeast infection is not considered an STD, but it can be spread through unprotected anal sex. (10)

Although yeast infections aren’t dangerous for most people, they can cause discomfort such as vaginal itching and burning.

Decisions regarding sexual activity during a yeast infection ultimately depend on what you and your partner feel most comfortable doing.

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Yeast infections (fungus) in women

Every woman will experience a yeast infection at some point in her life. A yeast infection is an irritating infection of the vagina and vulva that causes itching, discharge, and irritation. This is a type of vaginitis caused by an overgrowth of a yeast known as Candida albicans and is often easily treated at home, but can sometimes be severe enough to require a visit to a doctor.

On average, three out of four women experience a yeast infection. Some women have several throughout their lives. Although this disease is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, the fungus can be spread through oral contact with the female genitalia. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection and when you should see your OB/GYN.

Signs and symptoms of yeast infections

Signs and symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection can range from mild to more severe. These include the following:

  • burning sensation, especially when urinating or during intercourse;
  • itching and irritation in the vagina and vulva;
  • redness and swelling of the vulva;
  • thick, white or greyish vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese;
  • vaginal rash;
  • pain and soreness in the vagina;
  • watery vaginal discharge.

Yeast infection risk factors

There are certain risk factors that can lead to the development of a yeast infection. These include the following:

  • taking antibiotics;
  • lack of sleep;
  • hormonal imbalance during the menstrual cycle;
  • taking hormone therapy or oral contraceptives;
  • stress;
  • malnutrition, especially when eating too many sugary foods;
  • pregnancy;
  • diabetes;
  • weakened immune system;
  • wearing clothes that are too tight.

A yeast infection can be caused by a number of reasons, but the most common cause is the fungus Candida albicans. The vagina has a natural balance of this substance, as well as other bacteria. However, in some cases there may be an overgrowth of Candida, leading to the development of a yeast infection. As a result, you may experience a combination of classic symptoms such as burning, itching, and soreness. Even women who are not sexually active can develop this infection.

Sometimes other types of Candida can also cause a yeast infection, but most drugs, especially over-the-counter ones, are for Candida albicans. If you develop a yeast infection caused by another type of Candida, treatment may be more difficult. If more aggressive treatment is needed, you may need to make an appointment with an OB/GYN.

Diagnosis of yeast infections

When you visit your OB/GYN, the doctor will run a test to determine if you have a yeast infection:

  • Review of medical history, including any past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Visual examination of the pelvis, external and internal parts of the vagina.
  • Biosampling, a sample of vaginal secretions, to determine what type of fungus is causing the infection.

Yeast infection treatment

Treatment for a simple yeast infection is usually straightforward for most women and may include the following options:

  • Prescription antifungal cream, ointment, suppositories, or tablets that last one, three, or seven days.
  • Single dose oral preparations
  • An over-the-counter antifungal cream or suppository that lasts three to seven days.

For more complex yeast infections, a doctor may suggest the following treatment options:

  • Prescription antifungal cream, ointment, suppositories, or tablets that last up to 14 days.
  • Multi-dose oral preparations.
  • Maintenance plan for recurrent yeast infections. (This type of treatment usually lasts longer than 14 days and may require oral medication once a week for six months or vaginal suppositories once a week. )

Visit your obstetrician-gynecologist. A yeast infection can be uncomfortable and affect your emotional state, but the problem is treatable. Check with your doctor so you can take action in time to avoid infection in the future.

Vaginitis – symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of inflammation of the vagina

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vaginal mucosa that can lead to discharge, itching and pain. The reason is usually: a change in the balance caused by the reproduction of opportunistic microflora; sexually transmitted infection; decrease in estrogen levels after menopause and some other diseases.

Most common types of vaginitis:

Bacterial vaginosis . Develops due to excessive growth of the opportunistic microflora of the vagina, which disrupts the natural balance.

Yeast colpitis (thrush, candidiasis). Inflammatory disease of the vaginal mucosa caused by the fungus Candida albicans.

Infectious vaginitis . There are trichomonas, mycoplasma and other types of vaginitis. The causative agent in trichomoniasis is trichomonas vaginalis, usually transmitted sexually, can be transmitted from an infected mother to a child at birth.

Noninfectious vaginitis . Hygiene products may cause an allergic reaction or irritation leading to inflammation of the tissues of the vulva and vagina.

Atrophic vaginitis . Develops as a result of a decrease in estrogen levels after menopause or surgical removal of the ovaries.

Symptoms of vaginitis

Symptoms and signs of vaginitis may include:

    • Change in color, smell or amount of vaginal discharge
    • Vaginal itching or irritation
    • Pain during intercourse
    • Painful urination
  • Minor vaginal bleeding or spotting

If a woman has vaginal discharge, its characteristics may indicate a particular type of vaginitis. For example:

Bacterial vaginosis may present as a greyish-white discharge with an unpleasant odor. The odor, often described as “fishy”, may be more evident after intercourse.

Yeast infection. The main symptom is itching, but there may also be a thick white discharge resembling cottage cheese.

Trichomoniasis may be accompanied by a greenish-yellow, sometimes frothy discharge.

When to see a gynecologist

Seek medical attention if you experience vaginal discomfort, especially if:

— Vaginal odor, discharge or itching

– You have never had a vaginal infection . Seeing a doctor can help identify the cause and teach you to recognize the signs and symptoms

– You have had several sexual partners or have recently acquired a new partner. Symptoms may be a manifestation of a sexually transmitted infection, some of which have symptoms similar to thrush or bacterial vaginosis you have a fever, chills or pelvic pain

You probably don’t need to see a doctor every time you experience vaginal irritation and discharge, especially if:

you have already been diagnosed with thrush (candidiasis) and the symptoms are the same as before

– you are familiar with the symptoms of a yeast infection and are sure that this is what you have.

Causes of vaginitis

Bacterial vaginosis. This most common type of vaginitis results from an imbalance in the opportunistic microflora of the vagina. What causes the imbalance is unknown. Several microorganisms are involved in the occurrence of bacterial vaginosis, and not just gardnerella vaginalis, as previously thought. Normally, lactobacilli predominate in the vagina. With bacterial vaginosis, their number in the vagina decreases, while the number of vaginal gardnerella and other anaerobes increases (bacteroids, mobilincus, peptococci, ureaplasma and mycoplasma).

Bacterial vaginosis may be asymptomatic. This type of vaginitis appears to be related to, but not caused by, sex, especially if the woman has multiple sexual partners or a new sexual partner, but it also occurs in women who are not sexually active.

Yeast colpitis. This type of vaginitis is caused by a fungal growth in the vagina, usually Candida albicans. C. albicans also causes infections in other wet areas of the body, such as the mouth, skin folds, and nail beds. The fungus can also cause diaper rash.

Trichomonas. This common sexually transmitted infection is caused by a single-celled protozoan called Trichomonas vaginalis. In men, the microorganism usually affects the urinary tract, but is often asymptomatic. In women, trichomoniasis usually affects the vagina and can cause symptoms.

Noninfectious vaginitis. Vaginal sprays, douches, scented soaps, scented detergents and spermicides, toilet paper, tampons and pads may cause an allergic reaction or irritation leading to inflammation of the vulvar and vaginal tissues.

Atrophic vaginitis. Decreased estrogen levels after menopause or surgical removal of the ovaries can lead to thinning of the vaginal mucosa, sometimes resulting in vaginal irritation, burning, and dryness.

Factors that increase the risk of vaginitis include:

– Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, birth control pills, or menopause

– Sexual activity

– Having a sexually transmitted infection

– Medications such as antibiotics and steroids

– Using spermicides for birth control

– Uncontrolled diabetes ginal spray or vaginal deodorant

– Douching

– Wearing wet or tight clothing

– Using an intrauterine device (IUD)

Complications of vaginitis

Women with trichomoniasis or bacterial vaginosis are at greater risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections due to the inflammation caused by these diseases.

Inflammation can move to the cervix, which prevents bacteria and viruses from entering the uterus. When the cervix is ​​infected, there is an increased risk of infection reaching the uterus.

Diagnosis of vaginitis

Gynecologists diagnose vaginitis based on the history of the disease, symptoms, results of a gynecological examination (presence of inflammation, vaginal discharge). Gynecological examination, including using mirrors, is performed to examine the upper, lower and side walls of the vagina and cervix. On examination, hyperemia (redness) of the mucosa, its swelling, damage, and inflammatory discharge can be detected.

During a gynecological examination, the doctor may take samples of discharge from the vagina, urethra, and cervix. These samples are sent to the laboratory for bacterioscopic or bacteriological examination, PCR diagnostics to identify the pathogen and determine its sensitivity to antibiotics.

Treatment and prevention of vaginitis

Various organisms and conditions can cause vaginitis, so treatment is directed at the specific cause.

No treatment required if vaginitis is caused by an allergic reaction to products such as spermicides or feminine hygiene products. A woman needs to pinpoint the source of irritation and avoid it. Possible sources include new soap, laundry detergent, sanitary napkins, tampons, etc.

If the cause of vaginitis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), both you and your partner will need treatment, often with antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescribed for STIs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, or bacterial infections, including bacterial vaginosis.

For trichomoniasis, the gynecologist may prescribe metronidazole (Flagyl) or tinidazole (Tindamax) tablets.

Your doctor may recommend antiviral drugs for genital herpes in the vagina to help speed up the healing process, but there is no cure for herpes.

Yeast colpitis. An over-the-counter antifungal cream or suppository, such as miconazole, clotrimazole, butoconazole, or thioconazole, is commonly prescribed for thrush. Yeast infections can also be treated with prescription oral antifungals such as fluconazole (Diflucan).

The benefits of over-the-counter treatment are convenience, cost and no waiting to see a doctor. However, you may have something other than a yeast infection. Using the wrong medication can delay an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

Atrophic vaginitis. Estrogen – Vaginal creams, tablets, or rings can relieve this type of vaginitis. The treatment is prescribed by the doctor after considering the risk factors and possible complications.

Bacterial vaginosis. Antibiotics are the mainstay of therapy for bacterial vaginosis. Your doctor will usually prescribe metronidazole or clindamycin tablets or vaginal suppositories. Metronidazole can also be used as a vaginal gel. Therapy should be comprehensive in order to suppress all possible pathogens of bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis may recur after treatment.

To reduce the risk of vaginitis from sexually transmitted infections, use condoms consistently and correctly every time you have sex. By being in a long-term relationship, you can reduce your chances of contracting an STI.

Proper hygiene can prevent some types of vaginitis from recurring:

– Avoid baths and hot tubs.

— Avoid irritants. These include scented tampons, pads, showers, and scented soaps. Rinse the soap off the vulva after showering and dry it well to prevent irritation.

– Dry from front to back after going to the toilet. This will prevent the spread of fecal bacteria into the vagina.

– Avoid douching. The vagina does not require cleansing other than a regular shower. Repetitive douching destroys the beneficial microorganisms that live in the vagina and can increase the risk of a vaginal infection. Douching will not get rid of a vaginal infection.

– Wear cotton underwear. Also wear tights with a cotton crotch.