Vaginal Infections (Vaginitis)
Medical Author:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical EditorMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology. Medical Editor:
Mary Nettleman, MD, MS, MACP
Mary Nettleman, MD, MS, MACPMary D. Nettleman, MD, MS, MACP is the Chair of the Department of Medicine at Michigan State University. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt Medical School, and completed her residency in Internal Medicine and a fellowship in Infectious Diseases at Indiana University.
Vaginal Infections OverviewVaginal infections, or vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that creates discharge, odor, irritation, or itching. It is difficult to diagnose because vaginitis has many causes. Women use a variety of over-the-counter medications to treat the itching, discharge, and discomfort of these conditions.
Viewer Comments & ReviewsVaginal Infections - ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What was your experience with vaginal infections? Vaginal Infections - SymptomsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What were the symptoms of your vaginal infections? |
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Vaginal Infections
Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment »
Vaginal Yeast Infection Overview
Yeast infections are overgrowths of normally growing fungi in the vagina. Overgrowth inflames the vagina and creates discharge, odor, irritation, and/or itching. Normally growing bacteria in the body typically keep yeast fungi in check. If the natural balance of microorganisms is upset, the yeast may grow out of control. This is so common that 75% of all women experience a yeast infection at some time in their lives. Disruption of this natural balance may occur with any of the following:
- Use of antibiotics
- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system (for example from HIV/AIDS, steroid use, pregnancy, cancer chemotherapy or other drugs that weaken the immune system)
- Use of douches or feminine hygiene sprays
- Tight or noncotton underwear
- Hormonal changes
- Ovulation
- Menopause
...
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Vaginitis »
Vaginitis (infection of the vagina) is the most common gynecologic condition encountered in the office.
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