Vaginitis - Trichomoniasis

What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is best described as any inflammation of the vulva and vagina. The vagina is exposed to clothing and the environment but has many ways to protect itself. The vaginal lining is lubricated and its cells are being constantly renewed. These discarded cells mixed with secretions from the cervix make up the normal whitish vaginal secretions. The vagina also contains many micro organisms which exist in balance with each other and protect the vagina. When this biological balance of the vagina is disrupted, it increases the likelihood of contracting vaginitis.

There are a variety of causes of vaginitis, some are related to sexual activity and others are not. The most commonly sexually transmitted form of vaginitis is caused by a single-celled protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis ("trich"), which is examined here.

What are the symptoms of vaginitis?

Like many STDs, Trichomonas vaginalis can be present without any symptoms at all. The most common symptom observed by women is an abounding amount of discharge. This discharge ranges in color from white to yellowish to greenish. When it comes in contact with the vulva, the discharge can cause irritation making the vulva sore and itchy. When urine comes in contact with the irritated area, the patient may experience pain or burning. Painful intercourse and abdominal pain are also possible symptoms.

How is vaginitis contracted?

The condition is transmitted during intimate contact with infected vaginal or urethral secretions. Men can carry the protozoa in the urethra or prostate but usually have no symptoms. Transmission is possible between two women if one partner's infected discharge comes in contact with the other partner's vulva. There may be non-sexual transmission because the protozoa can survive in warm, moist areas such as whirlpools and saunas. If you are infected with vagintis it is necessary to avoid vaginal penetration or close contact of vaginal secretions during treatment. Women with vaginitis should also stay out of public baths so that the condition does not spread. Condoms are a means to reduce the risks of infection.

How is vaginitis treated?

The antibiotic metronidazole is prescribed to treat trichmonas vaginitis. It may have some unpleasant side effects such as nausea and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Please consult your physician for more details.