Understanding Vaginitis: How to Treat Common Types
Vaginitis refers to the inflammation of the vaginal mucosa and the connective tissues beneath it. It is a common condition encountered in gynecological clinics. There are various types of vaginitis, and it is essential for women experiencing symptoms to understand how to treat their condition effectively. Below, we will explore the treatment methods for eight common types of vaginitis.
1. Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)
Candidiasis, or yeast infection, is primarily caused by Candida albicans, a pathogenic yeast. This type of vaginitis commonly occurs in women who have undergone prolonged use of hormones or antibiotics, those with diabetes, and pregnant women. Transmission can occur through sexual intercourse, bathing, or contact with contaminated clothing. The main symptoms include a cottage cheese-like discharge and external itching.
To treat this condition, women can take oral antifungal medications or use antifungal suppositories inserted into the vagina. During treatment, it is advisable to avoid sexual intercourse, frequently change underwear, and boil washing tools to ensure cleanliness.
2. Vaginitis in Young Girls
This type of vaginitis is often seen in young girls, especially those wearing open-crotch pants. The condition arises when a girl plays on the ground, introduces fingers directly into the vagina, or inserts foreign objects, leading to contamination of the external and internal vaginal areas. Symptoms typically include redness and swelling of the external genitalia, watery discharge from the vagina, and severe burning pain.
Treatment for vaginitis in young girls involves cleansing with water infused with Sichuan pepper or a traditional herbal powder that contains talc and licorice. To prevent future occurrences, it is advisable to avoid open-crotch pants and to teach girls the importance of hygiene, emphasizing that they should not touch the vagina with fingers or foreign objects. Additionally, nightly cleansing of the external genitalia is recommended.
3. Gonococcal Vaginitis
Gonococcal vaginitis is caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium and is often transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse. Some cases may occur due to indirect contact, such as sharing contaminated swimwear or using infected bathtubs or toilets.
Symptoms include lower abdominal pain, increased vaginal discharge that is pus-like, redness, and pain at the vaginal opening. If untreated, gonococcal vaginitis can progress to chronic gynecological issues, with 10% to 20% of affected individuals potentially experiencing infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
Treatment typically involves muscle injections of sensitive antibiotics. Additionally, herbal remedies like willow leaves, Atractylodes, Coptis, and others can be used as warm washes for the external genitalia, once or twice daily for a week, with recovery generally expected within one to two treatment cycles.
4. Gardnerella Vaginitis
Gardnerella vaginitis is caused by the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis and is more prevalent among individuals with multiple sexual partners. This infection often surfaces when the normal vaginal flora is disrupted.
During acute phases, symptoms may include an increase in discharge that has a fishy or amine smell, persistent moisture in the external genitalia, a burning sensation in the vagina, pain during intercourse, and external itching.
For treatment, doctors may prescribe a combination of tetracycline and sulfanilamide in suppository form, to be inserted deeply into the vagina once nightly for ten days, along with oral antibacterial medications. In severe cases, intravenous medications may be necessary.
Conclusion
Understanding the various types of vaginitis and their treatment options is crucial for women experiencing symptoms. While some cases may require medical intervention, practicing good hygiene and being mindful of personal health can greatly reduce the risk of developing these infections.