Treatment
Vaginitis comes in a wide variety of forms, each with a unique set of signs and symptoms. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes simplex virus (HSV), trichomoniasis, and vulvovaginal atrophy (vaginal dryness and thinning) are the most prevalent types.
The cause of vaginitis affects the course of treatment. Medication can be used to treat vaginitis brought on by bacteria, yeast, or trichomoniasis. HSV or HPV-related vaginitis may go away on its own, but it can also be managed with medication. Estrogen therapy can be used to treat vaginitis brought on by vulvovaginal atrophy.
Consult your doctor if you suspect that you have vaginitis. He or she will perform a pelvic exam, inquire about your medical history, and symptoms. In order to check for the presence of bacteria, yeast, or other organisms, your doctor might also take a sample of your vaginal discharge.
Most vaginitis types are not serious and resolve without complications with prompt treatment. Some forms of vaginitis, however, can have serious health effects if untreated.
Bacterial Vaginosis
About 29% of women of childbearing age have bacterial vaginosis (BV), the most common type of vaginitis. Bacterial overgrowth in the vagina is the root cause.