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What are the symptoms of vaginitis?

Sep 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the main symptoms of vaginitis include itching of the vulva, abnormal vaginal discharge, redness and swelling of the vulva, pain during urination, and pain during sexual intercourse. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a qualified hospital. In addition, some patients may also experience skin damage on the vulva and slight vaginal bleeding. If you notice any of the above symptoms, you should pay attention to keeping the vulvar area clean and dry.

Generally, the main symptoms of vaginitis include itching of the vulva, abnormal vaginal discharge, redness and swelling of the vulva, pain during urination, and pain during sexual intercourse. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely diagnosis and treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Vulvar Itching

Imbalance of vaginal flora or pathogen infection may irritate the vaginal and vulvar mucosa, triggering a local inflammatory response and increasing the sensitivity of nerve endings, which causes itching of the vulva. Patients often experience persistent or episodic itching in the vulvar area, with symptoms more pronounced at night or in humid environments. Severe itching may lead to scratching that can cause skin damage.

2. Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Inflammation can stimulate abnormal secretion from the vaginal mucosal glands, changing the color, texture, and odor of vaginal discharge. In cases of bacterial vaginosis, the discharge is typically grayish-white, thin, and accompanied by a fishy odor; in candidal vaginitis, the discharge is often white and curd-like; in trichomoniasis, the discharge tends to be yellow-green, frothy, and malodorous.

3. Redness and Swelling of the Vulva

Invasion by pathogens or irritation from secretions can cause local congestion and edema of the vulvar skin and mucosa, leading to redness and swelling. The vulvar area may appear red and swollen, and touching it may cause a burning sensation or pain. Discomfort may worsen when wearing tight clothing due to friction.

4. Pain During Urination

Because the vagina is located close to the urethra, vaginal inflammation can easily spread to the urethra, causing inflammation of the urethral mucosa and resulting in pain during urination. Patients may feel a burning sensation or stabbing pain in the urethra while urinating. Some individuals may also experience symptoms such as frequent urination or urgency, and severe cases may lead to difficulty in urination.

5. Pain During Sexual Intercourse

When the vaginal mucosa is inflamed, it becomes congested and fragile. Friction during sexual intercourse may irritate the inflamed areas, causing pain. During sexual activity, patients may feel pain in the vagina or vulva. The degree of pain varies from person to person and may manifest as dull pain, stabbing pain, or severe pain, which can seriously affect normal sexual life.

In addition, some patients may also experience skin damage on the vulva or slight vaginal bleeding. If the above symptoms are noticed, it is important to keep the vulvar area clean and dry, change cotton underwear frequently, and avoid using irritating vaginal washes.

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