What are the symptoms of common vaginitis?
Dec 06, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. An Na
Introduction
Vaginitis primarily manifests as changes in vaginal discharge—including its amount, color, and odor—sometimes accompanied by vaginal itching, dyspareunia (painful intercourse), minimal vaginal bleeding, or urinary symptoms such as urinary frequency and dysuria. In candidal (yeast) vaginitis, vaginal discharge increases significantly and is often accompanied by pruritus of the vulva and vagina, restlessness, with symptoms typically worsening at night; the discharge is typically thick, curd-like, or resembling cottage cheese.
In daily life, women are frequently susceptible to gynecological infections due to various causes—vaginitis, therefore, is almost inevitable. What are the symptoms of vaginitis? Details are provided below:
Symptoms of Common Vaginitis
Vaginitis primarily manifests as changes in vaginal discharge—including its volume, color, and odor—often accompanied by vaginal itching, dyspareunia (painful intercourse), minor vaginal bleeding, or urinary symptoms such as urinary frequency and dysuria (painful urination).
In candidal (yeast) vaginitis, vaginal discharge increases significantly, accompanied by intense pruritus (itching) of the vulva and vagina, causing restlessness—especially at night. The discharge typically appears thick, curd-like, or resembling cottage cheese.
Trichomonal vaginitis is characterized mainly by increased vaginal discharge that is yellowish and frothy, along with vulvar itching and a foul odor.
Bacterial vaginosis presents with thin, grayish-white discharge and a characteristic fishy odor.
Atrophic vaginitis commonly occurs in postmenopausal women and is marked by increased vaginal discharge and a burning sensation in the vulva and vagina, along with vulvar discomfort and pruritus.
Menopausal (or senile) vaginitis refers specifically to vaginal inflammation occurring in women undergoing menopause.
During menopause, declining estrogen levels lead to hallmark clinical symptoms including vaginal and vulvar dryness and pain; some women also experience a burning sensation in these areas. The condition tends to recur and may cause dyspareunia or postcoital spotting.
Estrogen deficiency results in decreased glycogen content within the vaginal mucosa, predisposing affected women to recurrent candidal vaginitis. Notably, elderly women typically do not present with increased vaginal discharge; if this symptom does occur, it warrants prompt evaluation for potential cervical, ovarian, or fallopian tube pathology.
We hope the above information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
