Vaginitis is a common condition seen in gynecology clinics. Some people may feel embarrassed to talk about issues related to intimate areas, fearing judgment from others. However, it's perfectly normal to experience vaginitis, just as it is to catch a cold occasionally. As long as it is detected and treated promptly, most cases of vaginitis can be cured.

If treatment is not properly administered, it can lead to the spread of the disease, potentially causing more serious conditions such as acute cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or even infertility.

Abnormal Vaginal Discharge: A Signal of Vaginitis

Vaginal discharge is a secretion expelled from the female vagina, composed of cervical mucus, shed epithelial cells, normal vaginal flora, and vaginal fluid. Typically, normal vaginal discharge does not cause itching, pain, burning sensations, or noticeable irritation, nor does it lead to erosion of the vulva or vaginal area. If any of these symptoms occur, it could indicate the onset of vaginitis.

High-Risk Factors for Vaginitis

The normal physiological structure of the female reproductive tract provides a natural defense barrier. Under normal circumstances, various microorganisms coexist in the vagina, maintaining a balanced environment. Once this balance is disrupted, pathogens may invade, leading to vaginitis.

1. First Category of High-Risk Factors (Disrupting Vaginal Balance)

   - Some individuals believe that using vaginal washes promotes better hygiene, thinking "the more you wash, the healthier you'll be." However, this is a misconception.

   - In most cases, rinsing the vagina with clean water is sufficient. Unless prescribed by a doctor for treatment purposes, the use of vaginal washes is unnecessary.

   - Inappropriate medication or vaginal douching can disrupt the balance of lactobacilli and pH in the vagina, breaking the natural microbial balance or vaginal environment, leading to vaginitis.

2. Second Category of High-Risk Factors (Introducing Bacteria)

   - After urination, gently press to absorb any remaining urine. After defecation, wipe the anus from front to back.

   - Improper wiping direction can introduce bacteria from urine or feces to the vulva or vagina.

   - Many bacteria and microorganisms can be transmitted through sexual activity. Poor sexual hygiene or having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of infection.

3. Third Category of High-Risk Factors (Providing Space for Bacterial Growth)

   - Not changing sanitary tampons or pads promptly during menstruation provides a conducive environment for bacteria that cause vaginitis to multiply.

   - Similarly, frequently wearing tight pants or underwear made of synthetic fabrics can prevent the intimate area from breathing, leading to vaginitis.

4. Fourth Category of High-Risk Factors (Weakened Defense Mechanisms)

   - Weakened immune systems or decreased estrogen levels after menopause can also trigger vaginitis.

   - When these high-risk factors are at play, the vaginal environment becomes "chaotic," making it easier for vaginitis to develop.

   - Paying attention to daily care, exercising, and avoiding these high-risk factors can effectively prevent vaginitis.

Can Vaginitis Heal on Its Own?

Many women are reluctant to visit the hospital for a gynecological examination and wonder if vaginitis can be treated at home or even without medication.

1. There Is a Chance It Could Self-Heal

If the condition is not an infection, meaning it’s not bacterial vaginitis, fungal vaginitis, or trichomoniasis, but rather non-specific vaginitis caused by an imbalance of vaginal flora, it may self-resolve with proper hygiene and lifestyle adjustments.

2. Seek Medical Attention for Abnormal Symptoms

If there is abnormal vaginal discharge or discomfort in the vulva or vagina, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. Common abnormal discharge symptoms include:

Color Changes: Yellow-green, deep yellow, gray, or grayish-white.

Consistency Changes: Cottage cheese-like, white clumps, pus-like, thin watery, or frothy, possibly with blood traces.

Odor Changes: Smells like rotten eggs or fishy.

Common symptoms of vulvar or vaginal discomfort include:

Itching, pain, or burning sensations in the vulva or vagina, redness and swelling of the vulva or vaginal skin, or symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, or pain during urination.

If you've been diagnosed with vaginitis before and it recurs:

Do not self-medicate.

While the symptoms of vaginitis are generally similar, different types of vaginitis may require different treatments. Using the wrong medication can delay recovery. The current episode may differ from the previous one, and it’s difficult for non-professionals to distinguish between them.

It is recommended to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and safe treatment guidance.

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