At Albany OB-Gyn, patient education is very important to us. We feel that if our patients are more aware of their bodies and various treatments that are available to them, they can better communicate with our staff when a problem does arise.  This page of our web site will be devoted to educational issues, sharing information on new products and treatments and a host of information to keep you informed. The information on this page will change frequently and by revisiting us you can stay informed about your health.

Vaginitis 

        Vaginitis cause redness, swelling, and irritation of the outer genital area and discharge from the vagina. Although some types of vaginal discharge are normal, other are signs of infections or problems. 
   Vaginitis is a common problem that affects up to one third of women at some point in their lives. Most often it is caused by an infection, but other factors that cause changes in the normal vagina can also result in the symptoms of vaginitis.
   Vaginitis is rarely a serious threat to a woman's health. It can be annoying and uncomfortable, though. It usually does not go away without treatment. For treatment to work, the cause of the vaginitis should be found so that the treatment used matches the disease.
   Some types of vaginitis are hard to get rid of. There are many types of drugs that can be used for treatment, though. With time, a treatment that works can usually be found. Long-term treatment may be needed in some cases, and sometimes changes in a woman's personal habits are required.

The Vagina

   The vagina leads from a woman's uterus to the outside of the body. A healthy vagina has a balance of many microorganisms. They work together to create an acidic environment. This maintains a natural barrier against infection and keeps organisms that may be harmful in check. 
   The vagina has a normal fluid discharge which keeps the vagina healthy. It is clear or cloudy and whitish. It does not have a strong odor or cause itching or burning. The amount and type of discharge a woman has may vary and may change during the menstrual cycle and it is usually heavier during pregnancy. An abnormal discharge is one that causes itching and burning or has an unpleasant odor. If these symptoms are present, this is a common sign of vaginitis and should prompt you to see your physician.

Causes of Vaginitis 

   Vaginitis can result from anything that causes a change in the normal environment of the vagina:

• Infections such as bacteria and viruses, including those transmitted through sex
• Certain medications such as antibiotics used in treating other infections
• Irritating chemicals such as douches 
• Objects that irritate the vaginal walls such as a forgotten tampon
• Some health problems such as diabetes
• A change in the body's normal hormone balance which could be brought on by pregnancy, recent childbirth, breast feeding or menopause

Treatment for Vaginitis

   Treatment works best when matched to the cause of vaginitis. Your doctor will need to know what symptoms you have had. A sample of the discharge may be taken to be studied under a microscope. or used for a culture. In the culture test, the organisms are allowed to multiply so that they are easier to identify. Other testing may be suggested by your physician. However, to ensure the accuracy of any test, do not douche or use any vaginal medications or spermicides for 1-2 days before your doctor's visit.
   Treatment may depend not only on the cause of the vaginitis but also on your personal circumstance. For instance, the creams and gels used to treat vaginitis may cause side effects of itching and burning. Some women are allergic to these medications. Another treatment may be tried if this is the case. Also, some medications may not be used during the early part of pregnancy because of possible effects on the fetus. For more information on treatment, continue below and read about the specific forms of vaginitis and their recommended treatments.

Prevention of Vaginitis

   If you are found to have vaginitis, there are things you can do to prevent future occurrences:

• Avoid spreading bacteria from the rectum to the vagina. After a bowel movement, wipe from front to back, away from the vagina.
• Clean the outer genital area thoroughly and keep it as dry as possible.
• Avoid irritating agent such as harsh soaps and scented toilet tissue, deodorant tampons or panty liners.
• Avoid feminine hygiene sprays and douches. An offensive odor should not be masked but treated by your physician.
• Thoroughly clean diaphragms, cervical caps and spermicide applicators after each use.
• Avoid tight jeans or slacks. Wear panties or pantyhose with a cotton crotch and avoid synthetic fabrics that will trap moisture. Wash and thoroughly dry, new pantyhose before wearing them.
• Use condoms during sex.
• Check with your doctor about preventing yeast infections if you are prescribed antibiotics for another type of infection.

   Even if your vaginitis symptoms go away before you finish your medication, continue using the medication until you are finished. The disappearance of symptoms does not necessarily mean the infection is completely cleared up. If symptoms reoccur after you have completed your treatment, consult your physician as a different treatment method may be called for.

Types of Infections

   Yeast Infection -  Sometimes called candidiasis, it is one of the most common types of vaginal infection. Yeast infection is caused by a fungus that is normally found in the vagina. Changes in the normal vagina can promote the growth of this fungus. The use of certain antibiotics can increase the risk of repeated occurrences as bacteria are killed by the antibiotics and yeast is then allowed to overgrow.  The risk is also increased if a woman is diabetic or pregnant, has immunodeficiency disease such as HIV or her immune system is some other way compromised. 
   The most common symptoms of a yeast infection are redness, itching, and burning of the vagina and vulva. The vaginal discharge is usually white and odorless. It may have a cottage cheese-like texture. However, discharge is not always present in the event of yeast infection.
   Yeast infections are most often treated by placing tablets or a cream or gel into the vagina. There are also oral medications available by prescription.  Over-the-counter medications are now available, however, if the following occur, you are strongly urged to see your physician:

• Your first vaginal infection
• Symptoms remain after treatment
• Discharge is yellow or green or has a bad odor
• There is a chance you have a sexually transmitted disease

   Bacterial Vaginosis - Once called Gardnerella, the bacteria which cause this infection are also found in the vagina. However, unlike yeast  it is thought that bacterial vaginosis can be caused by overgrowth of a number of different organisms. It is still not clear whether it can be passed on through sexual activity.
   Increased vaginal discharge can be a key symptom of this infection. The discharge is usually thin, watery, and grayish white or yellow. Often there is a strong "fishy" odor associated with this. This odor may be more noticeable after sex. Mild burning or irritation may also occur.
   An oral (taken by mouth) antibiotic is usually used for treatment of bacterial vaginosis. There are also vaginal creams that are affectively used in treating this infection. 

   Trichomoniasis - Sometimes called "trich" for short can affect the urinary tract as well as the vagina. It can be caused by a type of one-celled organism that is larger than bacterial and it is usually spread through sex.
   Symptoms of "trich"  may or may not be present. If present they usually include vaginal discharge that is yellow-gray and may have an unpleasant odor. Burning and irritation are often present, especially during urination. Redness and swelling of the vulva are also common. 
   Trichomoniasis can be treated with an oral medication. Because this disease is most often spread through sex, your sexual partner should also be treated so that the infection does not get passed back to you. Often men do not have any symptoms. Using condoms will help avoid re-infection.

Other Causes

   Vaginal burning, itching and irritation can also result from other causes. An allergic reaction to chemicals or perfumes such as those in soaps, body-washes, bubble baths, fabric softeners, deodorant tampons or sanitary pads. Some women are allergic to spermicides or latex condoms. Irritation of the vaginal wall can result from a tampon, vaginal sponge, diaphragm or cervical cap that has been left in too long.
   Vaginitis can be treated and it can also be prevented. Maintaining good feminine hygiene without using harsh chemicals is a common-sense approach to preventing of vaginal infections. However, if we have not answered your questions or concerns regarding the infections we discussed, please fill out our information request form and our qualified staff will gladly answer your questions.