If you are a female, then you probably won’t escape getting a form of vaginitis like a yeast infection at some point in your life… probably multiple times. When the unpleasant symptoms pop up, it’s not only uncomfortable and a bit embarrassing, but it can be concerning if you aren’t sure what is causing it.

Many women attempt to self-diagnose and treat vaginitis at home. While there are pretty telling signs that you have vaginitis and even ways to help diagnose and treat some yeast and bacterial infections at home, it’s not always straightforward to pinpoint the exact cause or choose the right treatment.

This article will walk you through the different types of vaginitis, their symptoms (which often overlap and can be confusing), and what steps to take to help you find relief.

What is Vaginitis?

Vaginitis is a general term used to describe inflammation, irritation, or infection of the vagina. It’s not a specific condition but rather a group of conditions (yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis being two of the most common) that share common symptoms like itching, discomfort, and abnormal discharge.

Vaginitis happens when something disrupts the natural balance of bacteria, yeast, and/or pH levels in the vagina. Vaginitis symptoms can range from mild to severe, and sometimes milder cases don’t present any symptoms at all.

While vaginitis is a very common condition, it’s not something you should ignore. In some instances, mild vaginitis can go away on its own, but it’s not typically a good idea to wait and see if it resolves without treatment.

Untreated vaginitis can lead to complications, such as chronic discomfort, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can also cause complications during pregnancy or delivery.

Common Types of Vaginitis and What Causes Them

There are different types of vaginitis, and each is treated differently. Because their symptoms can often mimic each other, proper diagnosis is key to ensuring you are getting the right treatment to resolve the issue quickly and prevent potential complications. This is why it’s often better to see your OBGYN rather than self diagnose or treat vaginitis.

Here’s a breakdown of the types of vaginitis and the causes behind their symptoms:

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most commonly diagnosed type of vaginitis. It occurs when there’s an imbalance in vaginal bacteria, allowing harmful bacteria to outnumber the beneficial ones. Mild cases of BV might not have any symptoms, but typically, BV causes burning, itching, and/or a fishy odor, particularly after sex.

BV can develop for several reasons, with common triggers being using scented soaps, douching, hormonal changes, and new sexual partners. While BV isn’t classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), unprotected sex or frequent partner changes can disrupt your vaginal pH and introduce new bacteria, creating conditions where harmful bacteria thrive.

Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are one of the most common types of vaginitis. Many people mistake a yeast infection for bacterial vaginosis (BV) or vice versa since they share overlapping symptoms like itching and burning. However, these are distinct types of vaginitis with different causes and treatments.

A yeast infection occurs when there’s an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, disrupting the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina. Common triggers include antibiotics, hormonal shifts, or even elevated sugar levels in the body. Along with itching and burning, yeast infections often cause a thick, white discharge with a texture resembling cottage cheese.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, often called “trich,” is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a microscopic parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It spreads through vaginal, oral, or anal sexual contact with an infected partner.

Many cases of trichomoniasis are asymptomatic, meaning people may not know they’re infected. When symptoms are present, trich can cause inflammation in the vagina, leading to symptoms like vaginal itching, irritation, and a frothy, yellow-green discharge with an unpleasant odor. These symptoms can closely resemble bacterial vaginosis, which often results in self misdiagnosis.

Vulvar or Vaginal Dermatitis

Non-infectious vaginitis such as vulvar or vaginal dermatitis results from irritation or allergic reactions to products like scented soaps, douches, spermicides, or feminine sprays. If you have sensitive skin, even everyday items like laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and lubricants can cause this type of vaginitis.

Symptoms often include redness, itching, and a burning sensation but are typically free of abnormal discharge, which can help distinguish it from infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.

Atrophic Vaginitis (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause)

Atrophic vaginitis is linked to a drop in estrogen levels, which can cause vaginal tissue to become thinner, drier, and more prone to irritation. This often occurs during perimenopause, postmenopause, or while breastfeeding due to hormonal changes.

Symptoms typically include vaginal dryness, itching, discomfort or bleeding during sex, and increased urinary urgency or frequency. Vaginitis caused by estrogen drops does not normally cause significant changes in discharge. However, some women report experiencing a watery or slightly bloody discharge if the vaginal tissues are irritated or scratched.

Risk Factors of Vaginitis

Vaginitis is more common in women of reproductive age and those who are sexually active, but it can affect anyone with a vagina, regardless of age. Certain factors can make you more susceptible to developing vaginitis by disrupting the natural balance of the vaginal environment or increasing your exposure to irritants and infections. These include:

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in estrogen levels during pregnancy, menopause, hormonal contraceptive use, or even your menstrual cycle can disrupt the natural balance in the vagina, making it more vulnerable to infections and irritation.

Sexual Activity

Having new or multiple sexual partners, as well as engaging in unprotected intercourse, can alter the pH balance of the vagina. For example, semen has a higher pH, which can throw off pH balance, increasing the risk of bacterial vaginosis (BV).

While yeast infections are not directly caused by sexual activity, sexual activity, especially unprotected sex, can introduce new bacteria to the vagina that make it more susceptible to fungal overgrowth. Even condoms and some lubricants can cause irritation or trigger reactions.

Trichomoniasis, on the other hand, is caused by a specific parasite (Trichomonas vaginalis) and is transmitted through sexual contact, so it is considered an STI.

Poor Hygiene Habits

We know it’s tempting to want to use scented body washes and sprays. However, overwashing, douching, or using scented products can irritate the vaginal tissue and upset its natural balance. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.

In contrast, not maintaining proper hygiene can allow harmful bacteria to build up, increasing the risk of infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. Practicing good hygiene without overdoing it is key to supporting vaginal health. Cleanse with only water or products specifically formulated for intimate care.

Improper Wiping

Wiping from back to front after using the bathroom can introduce bacteria from the rectal area into the vagina, increasing the risk of infections like certain types of vaginitis or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Always wipe front to back to help prevent exposure to harmful bacteria.

Antibiotic Use

It is extremely common for women to develop a yeast infection after taking antibiotics because antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, killing beneficial bacteria that help keep yeast growth in check.

Probiotics are something everyone should take regularly for optimal GI and even vaginal health (and no, you don’t need one specifically marketed to prevent yeast infections). However, if you must take antibiotics, taking a probiotic supplement and eating a balanced diet that includes probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented products becomes even more important to help support healthy bacteria levels.

Certain Medications

Birth control and medications like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can sometimes impact estrogen levels, which play a vital role in vaginal health. A decline or fluctuation in estrogen may lead to conditions like atrophic vaginitis, increasing the risk of irritation and infection.

Underlying Health Conditions

Certain health conditions can make it more challenging for the body to maintain balance. For example, diabetes can lead to higher sugar levels in bodily fluids, creating an environment where yeast can thrive and increasing the risk of yeast infections.

Similarly, if you have a weakened immune system—whether due to illnesses, medications, or stress—it reduces the body’s ability to fight off harmful bacteria or infections, making vaginitis more likely.

STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes can increase inflammation and disrupt the natural vaginal environment, making the area more vulnerable to vaginitis infections. These infections can also mimic many of the symptoms of some types of vaginitis, making it even more important to see your OBGYN if you have abnormal discharge or any unusual vaginal sensations or irritations.

Managing underlying health conditions can help support vaginal balance and reduce the risk of vaginitis.

Tight or Non-Breathable Clothing

Wearing any kind of tight clothing, including pantyhose, jeans, leggings, or workout gear, can increase the risk of vaginitis by trapping heat and moisture around the vaginal area. Even breathable workout clothes can contribute if you don’t change out of sweaty or damp clothing quickly after exercising.

Opting for loose-fitting, cotton-based fabrics and changing into dry clothes promptly after sweating can help maintain a healthy balance and prevent vaginitis from forming.

Dietary Imbalances

A diet extremely high in processed carbs and sugar can contribute to yeast overgrowth, as yeast thrives on sugar. On the other hand, not consuming enough probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented products can hinder the growth of beneficial bacteria, which are essential for maintaining vaginal health.

Scented Hygiene Products

Fragrances and chemicals found in products like laundry detergents, fabric softeners, body sprays, deodorants, tampons, or pads can irritate the sensitive vaginal area, leading to non-infectious vaginitis. These products can cause allergic reactions or disrupt the natural balance of the vaginal environment, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Switching to hypoallergenic, unscented options or products designed specifically for vaginal health can help reduce irritation and lower the risk of developing vaginitis.

Stress and Sleep Deprivation

When people tell you it’s important not to skimp on sleep and manage stress, the reasons go beyond exhaustion, brain fog, and spikes in cortisol that can cause weight gain. Chronic stress and lack of quality sleep can weaken your immune system and disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, increasing susceptibility to conditions like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.

Sauna, Swimming, or Hot Tub Use

Prolonged exposure to damp swimsuits or time spent in hot tubs can create a warm, moist environment that encourages the growth of harmful bacteria or yeast, leading to vaginitis. Changing out of wet swimwear promptly and avoiding extended hot tub and sauna use can help reduce the risk.

Symptoms of Vaginitis

The symptoms of vaginitis can vary depending on the type you have, and some cases may not cause symptoms at all. It’s also possible to experience multiple types of vaginitis at the same time, which can make symptoms more complex.

That said, certain signs are common across most forms of vaginitis, including:

Changes In Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is typically clear or slightly cloudy with little to no odor. The texture and color of vaginal discharge can fluctuate throughout the month, but any persistent changes in its appearance, smell, or amount that last beyond a few days might be vaginitis.

Most vaginitis presents with similar types of vaginal discomfort. It’s the color and texture of your discharge that often provide the biggest clues about the type of vaginitis you’re dealing with.

For example:

  • Thick, clumpy discharge: Resembling cottage cheese may suggest a yeast infection.
  • Green or yellow discharge: Can indicate trichomoniasis or another infection.
  • Foamy or frothy discharge: A common sign of trichomoniasis.
  • Strong or fishy odor: Often associated with bacterial vaginosis.

While changes in discharge are a strong indicator of vaginitis, it can sometimes be the sign of an STD such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Unless you have been recently tested for STDs and are confident that you and your sexual partner are monogamous, if you have an abnormal discharge that lasts more than a couple of days, you should see your OBGYN to get a proper diagnosis.

Vaginal Discomfort

Burning, itching, or irritation, sometimes accompanied by visible redness or swelling of the vulva, is a common symptom for almost all types of vaginitis.

Pain During Urination

If you have a stinging or burning sensation while peeing, it could be vaginitis.

Discomfort During Intercourse

Experiencing unexplained pain or irritation during or after sex is often a sign of vaginitis.

Spotting or Light Bleeding

Spotting that occurs outside of your menstrual cycle, particularly during or after sex, is tied to several types of vaginitis.

How is Vaginitis Diagnosed?

While many of the symptoms of vaginitis are very telling of which type you might have, it’s not uncommon for women to misdiagnose themselves at home. If you’re experiencing symptoms of vaginitis, it’s important to see an OBGYN for an accurate diagnosis.

During your appointment, your doctor will begin by asking about your medical history, sexual activity, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. They will then most likely perform a physical exam.

This will include a pelvic examination to check for visible signs of irritation or infection and taking a sample of vaginal discharge for laboratory testing. This helps identify the specific type of infection or imbalance causing the symptoms.

Based on the results, your healthcare provider will recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Can You Diagnose Vaginitis Yourself?

Maybe, but it’s not the best idea. Diagnosing vaginitis yourself might seem easy, especially if you have a history of a particular type of vaginitis. There are also over-the-counter pH test strips and yeast infection test kits that can be a good starting point. However, these tests only provide partial information and cannot definitively diagnose the type of vaginitis you have.

For example, elevated pH levels may suggest bacterial vaginosis (BV), but it might also be trichomoniasis. Painful sex and spotting might be due to hormonal vaginitis but it might also be an STD OR vulvodynia, a painful condition that can present similar symptoms as vaginitis but is not the same and requires a different treatment path.

Proper diagnosis requires a visit to your OBGYN. Many symptoms of vaginitis overlap. It’s also not uncommon for a woman to have both an overgrowth of yeast and another type of vaginitis at the same time.

How is Vaginitis Treated?

Treatment for vaginitis depends on the specific type and underlying cause. Medications range from oral antibiotics and antifungals to topical creams and suppositories designed to target the infection or condition.

If you’re diagnosed with a yeast infection, the standard treatment often involves antifungal medications, which may be available as oral tablets, creams, or vaginal suppositories. These are effective at reducing yeast overgrowth and alleviating symptoms.

For bacterial vaginosis, doctors typically prescribe antibiotics like metronidazole or clindamycin, which may be taken orally or applied as a vaginal gel. These medications help restore the natural bacterial balance in the vagina.

Trichomoniasis is treated with a single dose or a short course of oral antibiotics, most commonly metronidazole or tinidazole, to eliminate the parasitic infection.

If your vaginitis is caused by irritation from a product, such as scented hygiene products or laundry detergents, treatment involves discontinuing the use of the irritant and possibly using soothing creams or medications to reduce inflammation.

For atrophic vaginitis, which is linked to reduced estrogen levels (often during menopause), treatment may include estrogen therapy in the form of vaginal creams, rings, or tablets to restore moisture and elasticity to the vaginal tissues.

Additionally, your doctor might recommend dietary and lifestyle changes to support vaginal health and reduce recurrence. For example, incorporating a probiotic supplement and probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, avoiding douching, and switching to breathable, cotton underwear can all help prevent future episodes of vaginitis.

Understanding the root cause of your symptoms is key to finding effective treatment and maintaining a healthy vaginal environment.

Can You Treat Vaginitis at Home?

If a yeast infection is suspected, antifungal treatments like miconazole (Monistat) or clotrimazole are available over the counter as creams, suppositories, or tablets. These can effectively treat mild yeast infections, but if symptoms persist, worsen, or are recurrent, you should see a doctor.

There are no FDA-approved OTC treatments for bacterial vaginosis. Boric acid suppositories are a popular home remedy to manage symptoms or as a supplemental treatment alongside prescription antibiotics. However, boric acid is not typically a standalone cure for BV, and it is advised to only use it under medical guidance.

Trichomoniasis requires a formal diagnosis by your doctor and is treated with prescription oral antibiotics like metronidazole. There are no effective home treatments for this sexually transmitted infection.

While many of these OTC treatments are very effective, you don’t want to treat the wrong condition. Types of vaginitis share symptoms, so it’s easy to misidentify the underlying cause.

Taking the wrong treatment will not only delay relief but could also worsen symptoms or allow the infection to spread. Seeking a professional diagnosis ensures you get the right treatment for a faster and safer recovery.

When To See A Doctor If You Think You Have Vaginitis

If you notice any changes to your vaginal discharge in odor, color, or consistency that do not return to normal within a day or two, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your OBGYN.

Vaginal itching, irritation, pain during sex or when you pee, unexplained spotting, or bleeding are also symptoms you shouldn’t ignore.

It is especially important to see your doctor if you are having any symptoms of vaginitis and you have recently had new or multiple sexual partners. It might only be BV, but you could have an STI, which requires prompt treatment.

You should also see a provider if you’ve completed treatment for vaginitis but still have symptoms or if your symptoms are severe and aren’t responding to home treatments. Early diagnosis and treatment ensure faster relief and help prevent complications.

How to Prevent Vaginitis

There aren’t many women who will escape getting some type of vaginitis at least once in their lifetime. It is the most common gynecological diagnosis in primary care. While it can’t always be avoided, you can take steps to reduce your risk and lessen the chance of it coming back.

Here are some practical steps to reduce your risk:

Practice Good Hygiene

There are many daily routines and practices for better feminine health. One is simply practicing good hygiene by gently cleansing the vaginal area with water or a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.

Avoid using scented soaps, body washes, or douches, as these can disrupt the natural pH balance. Always wipe front to back after using the restroom to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Choose Breathable Clothing

Opt for loose-fitting, cotton underwear and avoid tight or non-breathable fabrics that trap heat and moisture, especially when exercising, and always change out of sweaty clothes or damp swimsuits as soon as possible.

Be Mindful of the Products You Use

There are many things you should not put in your vagina or on the delicate skin surrounding it. If it’s not made to go in the vagina, don’t risk it (yes, this includes home yeast infection remedies like yogurt.)

Also, just because it’s safe for your skin doesn’t mean it’s ideal for the skin around your vagina. Only use hypoallergenic laundry detergents and avoid scented tampons, pads, or panty liners. If you experience irritation, consider switching to unscented or organic alternatives.

Practice Safe Sex

Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce your risk of infections like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced diet that includes probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented products can support vaginal health. Stay hydrated, manage stress, and get regular exercise to support your immune system, as weakened immunity can make you more susceptible to any infection, including vaginitis.

Avoid Overuse of Antibiotics

Only use antibiotics when necessary, as they can kill beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy vaginal balance. If you must take antibiotics, consider taking a probiotic supplement to support your microbiome.

Monitor Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can affect vaginal health. If you are using hormonal birth control or undergoing menopause, talk to your doctor about any symptoms of discomfort or changes in vaginal health.

Final Thoughts

Vaginitis is incredibly common, but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating or uncomfortable to deal with. While it might feel tempting to self-diagnose or treat at home, vaginitis can have different causes that require specific treatments. Misdiagnosing or using the wrong remedy can delay relief and even worsen symptoms.

Talking about these issues might feel embarrassing, but don’t be. There is nothing to be ashamed of. Vaginitis happens to at least one in three women at least once in their lifetime (usually more), and vaginal health is what OBGYNs specialize in.

There’s no need to suffer in silence or risk prolonged discomfort or complications. We’re here to provide answers, expert care, and the right treatment to get you feeling your best again.

Don’t rely on guesswork when it comes to your vaginal health—schedule an appointment with Cool Springs OBGYN. Let us help you determine what type of vaginitis you might have and address the root cause so that it hopefully doesn’t come back again.