Vaginitis, the most commonly used term for vaginal infections, is an inflammation of the vagina. About one-third of all women will developit at least once.
Different types of vaginitis are listed below. Always consult your doctor if you notice discomfort in your vaginal area. Such infections could be symptoms of more serious health conditions, such as diabetes.
Trichomoniasis is caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, a microscopic parasite that is spread through sexual activity. Symptoms include a yellow-gray or green vaginal discharge that may smell fishy. Burning, irritation, redness and swelling of the vulva could occur as well. Your doctor will prescribe a medication for this infection.
Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is an overgrowth of the naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina, called Gardnerella vaginalis. Indication of this infection is an unusual amount of dark or gray (sometimes green) discharge that omits a strong, fishy odor.
Itching and pain can be less severe than with other infections, but can still be bothersome. Antibiotics treat this infection. Two of the most common ones are metronidazole and clindamycin, which can be taken orally or inserted into the vagina.
PID is an infection of a woman's reproductive organs. It's caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), usually untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea.
The untreated infection spreads from the vagina into the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. In severe cases, the infection can go into the pelvis and abdominal cavity.
PID is very serious because it can scar normal reproductive structures. PID can prevent women from having children or can cause a tubal pregnancy, where the embryo implants in a fallopian tube instead of the uterus.
PID seems to be more common in women who use an IUD to prevent pregnancy, have many sexual partners or douche.
Like other STIs, women may have no symptoms until the infection has gotten very bad. When there are symptoms, they may include:
PID is diagnosed after a full health history and exam by your medical provider. This will include a pelvic exam and testing for STIs. It may also include an ultrasound of the pelvis to look for the extent of the infection or check for an abscess.
It's best to diagnose the infection at its earliest, most treatable stages. Treatment includes oral antibiotics, or intravenous antibiotics if the infection is advanced or extensive. Some very severe infections require hospital treatment.
Also, advanced infection may need surgery to remove infection or pus in the belly. This may also include reproductive organs badly damaged by infection.
Anything that helps prevent STIs will prevent PID. Make sure you are frequently tested for STIs whenever you change partners or have concerns about symptoms.
Youth reviewer: Trinh Tran
Reviewed by: Sharanjit Dosanjh, R.N.
Last reviewed: October 2019