Vaginitis, vulvitis, vaginosis... another vaginal infection? What is vaginitis? Is vaginitis frequent? What are the causes of vaginal infections and vaginitis? How is vaginitis spread? What are the symptoms of vaginitis? How is vaginitis diagnosed? Test is NOT painful! What treatments are available for vaginitis? What happens if I do not treat my vaginitis? Is it harmful? Vaginitis and pregnancy How do I relieve the symptoms of vaginitis? Personal hygiene What should I do about recurrent vaginitis? Have there been recent developments in curing vaginitis? Links and References

Some vaginal infections are transmitted through sexual contact (trichomonal vaginitis), but others such as candidiasis (yeast infections) are not. Most male partners of women with VVC do not experience any symptoms of the infection. However, a transient rash and burning sensation of the penis have at times been reported after intercourse if condoms were not used. These symptoms are usually self-limiting.

Candidal vulvo-vaginitis (VVC) or bacterial vaginosis typically become symptomatic when the vaginal flora has been altered. The healthy stable vulvo-vaginal environment or flora (occupied by both bacteria and yeast) is strongly tied to your local (vulvo-vaginal) pH or acidity. Those events, products or infections that cause an imbalance in your normal pH and equilibrium can allow the abnormal proliferation of yeast or bacteria...the result - a vaginal infection. Common culprits are antibiotics (discuss this with your physician), harsh or chemical soaps, bubble baths, shampoos or cream rinses, scented sanitary napkins, massage oils, etc. As you can see, if you are suffering from a vaginal infection it is important to evaluate your environment and identify any potential causes. These products may destroy your pH and flora or may be directly irritant (cause an allergic reaction). Obviously, we are not all created equal and some women are susceptible while others are not. Preventive measures include the elimination of all potentially irritant products that may imbalance or irritate your vulvo-vaginal environment.

Vaginitis