Vaginal itching, burning or a change in discharge can be uncomfortable and difficult to interpret. Several conditions cause similar symptoms, so the right treatment starts with understanding the cause.
Vaginitis means inflammation of the vagina. It may be related to an infection, irritation or hormonal changes. Symptoms can also affect the vulva, the genital area outside the vagina.
Common causes include:
Symptoms alone do not always distinguish these conditions.
Your provider may ask about when symptoms started, changes in discharge, recent medications and any products or treatments you have used. Questions about sexual health help guide appropriate testing.
An exam and a sample of vaginal fluid may be recommended. Treatment depends on the findings; a medicine for one type of infection may not treat another cause.
Arrange an evaluation for new or persistent symptoms, particularly if you have never had them assessed or they have not improved after treatment. If symptoms come with fever, chills or pelvic pain, seek prompt medical advice.
Write down what has changed and when. Include any recent antibiotics, vaginal products and treatments, even those bought without a prescription. Ask the office whether there are instructions to follow before testing.
You do not need to identify the infection yourself before making an appointment. A clear description of your symptoms is a useful starting point.
No. Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis are different from sexually transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis. Because symptoms can overlap, testing may be needed to identify the cause.
Itching alone cannot confirm the cause. If this is your first episode, you are unsure, or symptoms continue after treatment, contact your provider before repeating an over-the-counter treatment.
Arrange a follow-up visit. Tell your provider which treatments you used and whether symptoms improved before returning. Reassessment can help check the diagnosis and guide the next step.
