Do you suffer from continuous itching, pain, swelling in your vaginal area?

You are not alone.

Vaginitis is a common infection that many women suffer from. All you need to do is open up. Women often do not address this underlying issue out of embarrassment or not finding a gynaecologist.

You must be aware that vaginal health plays a crucial role in a woman’s overall reproductive wellness. Beyond the immediate symptoms of vaginitis, it can also have long-term consequences, especially when it comes to fertility.

In this blog, you get a comprehensive guide from the best gynaecologist in Kolkata on vaginitis and how it is related to fertility.

Know what vaginitis is

Vaginitisis a common vaginal infection that refers to inflammation of the vaginal walls caused by an imbalance in the vaginal flora or an infection. Several conditions can trigger this, affecting women of all ages.

What are the common types of Vaginitis?

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)-

This is a common type of vaginitis that takes place due to the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota. You might experience the symptoms like thin, greyish-white vaginal discharge with a fishy odour. At the same time, itching and irritation in the vaginal area are also common. Generally, pain or inflammation is not associated with this type, as it is often asymptomatic.

• Yeast Infection or Candidiasis-

This type of infection caused due to the overgrowth of yeast in the vaginal area. You might experience symptoms like thick, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge and itching, burning and redness in the vaginal area. It is most common and can occur in women of all ages, especially during pregnancy, menstruation, or while taking antibiotics.

• Trichomoniasis-

This type of infection occurs due to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) called the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. You might experience frothy, yellow-green discharge with a foul odour, also itching and redness of the vaginal area and discomfort during urination or intercourse. Since it is transmitted through sexual contact, it can cause symptoms in male sexual partners as well.

• Atrophic Vaginitis-

This type of vaginitis occurs due to the hormonal changes resulting in the thinning and inflammation of the vaginal tissues. You can experience symptoms like vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and discomfort during intercourse. This type is more common amongst postmenopausal women who might also experience hot flashes and mood changes.

• Chemical Vaginitis-

This occurs due to the exposure to extreme douches, scented soaps, bubble baths, spermicides, or latex condoms. Symptoms that you might experience are vaginal irritation and itching, redness and discomfort. That is why gynaecologists from the best women’s clinic in Kolkata always advise avoiding exposure to irritants and practising good hygiene to prevent chemical vaginitis.

• Mixed Infections-

This is caused by a combination of factors, like a bacterial vaginosis coexisting with a yeast infection or other types of infections. This symptom can require tailored treatment based on the specific pathogens involved.

There is nothing to be afraid of!

If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately seek advice from the best gynaecologist in Kolkata. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you will overcome this soon.

Treatments for Vaginitis

• Antibiotics– can be prescribed for bacterial vaginosis or other bacterial infections.
• Antifungal medications– oral medications, antifungal creams, and suppositories can be used to treat yeast infections.
• Antiparasitic medications– metronidazole or tinidazole can be used to treat trichomoniasis.
• Topical steroids– to reduce inflammation, sometimes a gynaecologist can prescribe steroid creams to reduce inflammation and itching.
• To avoid irritation-you must avoid douching, scented products, and tight-fitting clothing.

Though vaginitis is not directly related to infertility in many cases, it has been found that if left untreated or suffers for a prolonged period, it can affect your fertility.

Know how vaginitis affects fertility.

Here are some factors;

• Disrupting the pH balance of Vagina– a healthy vagina has a slightly acidic pH around 3.8 to 4.5, helping to protect against infections. However, infections like BV or yeast overgrowth can disturb this balance, making it harder for sperm to survive or reach the egg.
• Cervical Mucus Changes– continuous infections can alter the quality and consistency of cervical mucus, which is essential for guiding and nourishing sperm as it travels through the reproductive tract.
• Inflammation of the Reproductive Tract- Trichomoniasis and BV can travel upward into the uterus and fallopian tubes, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This can cause major tubal infertility, creating a blockage and preventing the egg and sperm from meeting.
• Increased Risk of Miscarriage– sometimes even if conception takes place, continuous infections can contribute to complications like early miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birth weight.

You must know when to seek your gynaecologist.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, immediately seek help from the gynaecologist of the best women’s clinic in Kolkata if you stay near it, or you can go for an online consultation.

• Unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
• Itching, burning, or irritation
• Pain during intercourse or urination
• Recurring infections

Remember, an early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term complications, including fertility issues.

We have some Preventive Tips for you, as ‘prevention is always better than cure…’

• Practice safe sex.
• Avoid douching.
• Wear breathable cotton underwear.
• Maintain good hygiene.
• Go for a regular check-up with your gynaecologist even if you don’t have any symptoms.

 

Vaginitis is a common infection, and it is treatable. There is nothing to be worried about or stressed out about. However, if you leave it untreated, then it can cause serious reproductive health issues.

Be informed and proactive is the first step that you can take to protect both your vaginal health and fertility changing lifestyle can also benefit your health. Eat healthy, stay active, and practice yoga to strengthen your pelvic region.

If you are planning to conceive or facing difficulties in getting pregnant, visit https://monamieivf.com/, the best women’s clinic in Kolkata, and consult with the best gynaecologists in Kolkata.

Get a healthy vaginal environment.

 

FAQs

1. Who is at risk of vaginitis?

Several factors may increase the risk of developing vaginitis, including:

• Unsafe Sex.
• Medical factors
• Health conditions

2. How is vaginitis diagnosed?

To diagnose vaginitis, the best women’s clinic in Kolkata may do the following:

• Physical examination
• Vaginal swab
• ph testing

These diagnostic methods help healthcare providers identify the specific type of vaginitis and tailor treatments accordingly.

3. What are the complications of vaginitis?

Vaginitis, if left untreated, can lead to several complications:

• Recurrent or chronic infections
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections.
• Psychological distress.