Vaginitis treatment
Medical treatment of vaginal infections
To treat vaginal infections, whether fungal or bacterial, doctors use antibiotics. When dealing with bacterial infections, treatment can also be done with special creams prescribed by the doctor. For fungal infections, antifungal creams or lotions are usually used, but in more severe cases an oral antifungal treatment may be prescribed by a doctor.
In conditions where there are multiple causes of inflammation, they can be treated together. It should be taken into account that treatment of yeast vaginosis is necessary at times when a woman undergoes any surgical procedures such as natural birth, cesarean section, or abortion; To reduce the risk of infection.
Another effective way to treat gynecological infections is to use vaginal suppositories and antifungal creams. Estrogen can also be used in different forms, whether through vaginal creams, tablets, or vaginal rings, based on the doctor’s directions.
It is necessary to identify the factors causing the infection, which may include the use of new products such as soap, washing powders or tampons, in order to avoid them and reduce the recurrence of the infection.
Treating vaginal infections at home
To treat vaginal infections, several simple and effective methods can be relied upon, including:
1. Apply cold compresses to the affected area to relieve pain and swelling.
2. Eat plenty of probiotics, as they can be introduced into the diet through foods such as yogurt, pickles, and certain types of cheese, or through nutritional supplements.
3. Use unsweetened yogurt to soothe the affected area by placing it directly around the vaginal opening.
4. Prepare a mixture of essential oils and apply it to the sensitive area to relieve symptoms.
These methods help alleviate the symptoms of vaginal infections and provide quick relief.
Diagnosis of vaginal infections
Gynecologists diagnose vaginal infections using pH strips, which show the acidity levels in the vagina, which helps determine the cause of the infection. Doctors also use an applicator that reacts with vaginal secretions, changing their color, to detect whether the infection is bacterial or caused by parasites. This applicator is known as the Clotest stick and is available to the public in pharmacies for personal use without the need for a prescription.
There are multiple diagnostic methods that enable fungal vaginal infections to be distinguished from those caused by bacteria or parasites, which require specific treatments for each type.
Vaginal infections are classified into two main types, the first of which is infectious vaginal infections, which are the most common among pre-menopausal women. This classification includes:
1. Bacterial vaginosis, which results from excessive growth of natural bacteria present in the vagina.
2. Vaginal candidiasis, caused by a fungus known as Candida albicans.
3. Trichomoniasis, an infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis and often transmitted through sexual intercourse.
4. Viral vaginosis, which is caused by viruses such as herpes simplex virus or human papillomavirus, which are also transmitted through sexual contact.
Non-infectious vaginal infections
Sometimes, women are exposed to types of inflammation in the vaginal area that are not transmitted through infection, but rather arise due to other factors such as hormonal changes or exposure to substances that irritate these sensitive parts.
An example of this is atrophic vaginitis, which is especially common among postmenopausal women. At this stage, estrogen levels decline significantly, causing the vaginal lining to become more tender and susceptible to irritation and redness. Women who have had surgery to remove their ovaries may be more susceptible to this type of infection.
The other type of these infections is non-infectious allergic vaginitis, which occurs when the vaginal area reacts negatively to various chemicals or irritating factors, causing inflammation and discomfort for the affected woman.
Each of these health problems requires a careful understanding of its nature and conscious management to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Vaginitis in children
Girls of all ages are susceptible to vaginitis, including infants and young children. Several factors contribute to increasing the risk of developing this infection in young girls, including:
The vaginal and vulvar area is very delicate and sensitive due to the thinness of its skin.
The absence of fat pads around the labia, as well as the lack of hair growth in sensitive areas such as the pubic area, which reduces its protection.
An imbalance in estrogen levels, which affects the natural balance of the area.
Weak presence of beneficial bacteria such as lactobacilli in the vagina, which opens the way for harmful bacteria to multiply.
Sensitivity to the area as a result of its constant exposure to irritating substances such as soap, detergents, fabric softeners, or the use of wet diapers and tight clothes that increase friction and moisture.
Causes of vaginitis
In women, vaginitis may result from a variety of etiologies, depending on the nature of the vaginitis itself. The main reasons for this situation are the following:
The use of some common products such as soap, intimate cleaning products, topical medications, as well as sanitary pads or tampons, may cause vaginal irritation or sensitivity.
Hormonal changes also play a role in the occurrence of vaginal infections, especially during periods such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, and during or after menopause.
Sometimes, sexual intercourse may be a source of transmission to the vagina if one partner has an infection such as Trichomonas or chlamydia.
Vaginal dryness can also increase the risk of vaginitis due to lack of moisture, which may help harmful bacteria grow.
Improper washing of the genital area, such as wiping from back to front, may cause bacteria to move from the anal area to the vagina, leading to infection.
It is worth noting the importance of the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the vagina. Any imbalance in this balance, such as an overgrowth of bacteria such as gardnerella, may result in bacterial vaginosis.
Continuous use of certain products such as condoms, lubricants, and spermicides may also lead to similar problems due to the chemicals they contain.
Preventing the recurrence of vaginal infections
To prevent vaginal infections, you must first take care of the body's natural hygiene without excessive use of detergents inside the vaginal area.
The vagina self-regulates itself with secretions that maintain the bacterial balance and the correct pH level. Only external washing is sufficient, especially after sexual intercourse, as internal washing may cause infections due to changing the natural balance of bacteria.
Also, it is necessary to maintain proper and balanced nutrition to prevent any recurrence of injuries. A diet low in sugars and carbohydrates is recommended to prevent fungal growth. Eating probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, helps support the body's beneficial bacteria, preventing an increase in fungi and bacteria that cause inflammation.
Factors such as hormonal changes, childbirth, comorbidities, and changes in sexual partners can affect vaginal health. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any signs of such infections and treat them promptly and appropriately to prevent the problem from getting worse and reduce its impact on quality of life.
