Vaginitis causes many uncomfortable symptoms such as itching and abnormal or foul smelling vaginal discharge. Do not feel embarrassed to talk to your doctor about your symptoms, and remember that vaginitis is a common condition that can be treated easily. However, neglecting it may make treatment more difficult and lead to health complications. So, how is vaginitis treated? (1)


First: Types of Vaginitis and Their Symptoms

The treatment of vaginitis depends on the underlying cause, so consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The causes of vaginitis are classified as follows:(1)(2)

Type of vaginitis

Its symptoms

Fungal vaginitis (20–25% of cases)

Severe itching, redness, thick white clumpy discharge, and sometimes pain during intercourse or urination.

Bacterial vaginosis (40–50% of cases)

Thin white to gray discharge with a fishy odor, and sometimes mild itching.

Trichomoniasis (15–20% of cases)

Yellow or green frothy discharge with an unpleasant odor, itching, burning, or pain during intercourse and urination.

Other cases (5–10% of cases)

Allergic or hormonal vaginitis

Dryness, itching, redness, and irritation.


Vaginitis Treatment

Fungal Vaginitis

  • It is treated with antifungal creams, suppositories, or oral medications. Most of these are available without a prescription from pharmacies.
  • Examples include:

Creams or suppositories:

  • Miconazole (such as Daktarin, Gyno Candizol, Mycoheal).
  • Isoconazole (such as Azonit).
  • Clotrimazole (such as Canesten, Clotrim).

Or oral medications:

Fluconazole (Diflucan tablets). In severe or recurrent cases, a single dose may be sufficient, and it may be repeated weekly in recurrent infections.

  • You may treat yourself with these medications without a prescription after consulting a pharmacist if:
  • Your symptoms are mild and you do not have pelvic pain or fever.
  • You have had a fungal infection before and recognize the symptoms.
  • You are not pregnant.
  • It is unlikely that you have another type of sexually transmitted infection.

Follow the instructions provided with the medication you use. These treatments are usually used for 3 to 7 days depending on the medication. Do not stop treatment early even if symptoms improve before completing the full course.

Bacterial Vaginosis

It is important to see a doctor, who will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic, usually:

  •  Metronidazole (such as Flagyl or Nidazole tablets).
  • Clindamycin (such as Clindacine).

Trichomoniasis Vaginitis

Metronidazole is the most commonly used treatment, such as Flagyl or Nidazole tablets.

Tinidazole, such as Protogyn tablets.


Other Conditions

  • Hormonal Vaginitis
  • This occurs due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, after childbirth, or after menopause, such as decreased estrogen levels, leading to vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and discomfort during intercourse.
  • Treatment: The doctor may prescribe hormone therapy using estrogen in the form of creams or vaginal rings, or vaginal moisturizers to relieve symptoms.
  • Allergic Vaginitis
  •  This may occur due to irritation from chemicals in feminine hygiene products or due to dryness.
  • Treatment: Avoid triggering irritants, including scented soaps, vaginal douches, and tight or nylon underwear.

Important Tips

Follow these tips to treat and prevent vaginitis:  (4)(5)

  • Avoid vaginal washes, douches, and perfumes. Use only water to clean the vaginal area and dry it thoroughly.
  • Do not stop medication before completing the full prescribed course, even if you feel better, as this is essential to eliminate the infection and prevent recurrence.
  • Do not use home remedies or mixtures, as they may worsen the condition.
  • Wear loose cotton underwear and avoid tight or nylon clothing.
  • Eat foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, which help maintain healthy vaginal bacterial balance.
  • Make sure to:
  • Use sanitary pads instead of tampons during menstruation.
  • Use condoms and lubricants during sexual intercourse.
  • Use lukewarm rather than hot water.
  • Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.

Routine gynecological checkups are the first line of defense against gynecological conditions. If you are experiencing any bothersome symptoms, do not hesitate to book an appointment today with the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Al Ahli Hospital to consult our experienced specialists.




References

  1. Vaginitis: Diagnosis and Treatment, AAFP
  2. Vaginitis, MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
  3. Vaginitis - Health Encyclopedia, University of Rochester Medical Center
  4. Vaginitis, NHS
  5. Vaginitis - self-care, MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia