Vaginal infection is a common gynecological problem in women, involving multiple pathogens and complex microecological imbalances. In severe cases, it can affect reproductive health and quality of life. This article will systematically sort out the main types, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods and scientific prevention measures of vaginal infection to help women fully understand and scientifically respond to this health challenge.
1. Common types and causes of vaginal infection
1. Bacterial vaginosis
- Causes: The number of normal lactobacilli in the vagina decreases, and anaerobic bacteria such as Gardnerella overgrow, leading to an imbalance in the flora.
- Symptoms: Increased vaginal discharge, grayish white, with a fishy odor, especially after sexual intercourse; may be accompanied by mild itching or burning.
- Harm: It can cause premature rupture of membranes and premature birth during pregnancy, and may cause endometritis and pelvic inflammatory disease in non-pregnant women.
- Treatment: Oral or topical use of antibiotics such as metronidazole[1][5].
2. Candida vaginitis (Candidiasis)
- Cause: Overgrowth of Candida albicans, common in patients who use antibiotics, hormones, diabetes and pregnant women for a long time.
- Symptoms: Vaginal itching, burning, pain during intercourse, increased vaginal discharge, dregs or cheese-like.
- Treatment: Topical or oral antifungal drugs, under the guidance of a doctor[2][4][6].
3. Trichomonas vaginitis (Trichomoniasis)
- Cause: Vaginal infection with Trichomonas vaginalis, mostly transmitted through sex.
- Symptoms: Increased vaginal discharge, yellow-green foamy, with a foul odor, accompanied by vulvar itching, burning and pain during intercourse.
- Harm: Can cause infertility, premature rupture of membranes, premature birth, and sexual partners need to be treated at the same time.
- Treatment: Oral metronidazole, in conjunction with partner treatment[2][4].
4. Atrophic Vaginitis
- Cause: After menopause, estrogen levels decrease, the vaginal mucosa becomes thinner, drier, and more susceptible to infection.
- Symptoms: Itching and burning of the vagina, pain during intercourse, and less and abnormal secretions.
- Treatment: Local estrogen therapy and use of lubricants[4][6].
5. Other infections
- Gonorrheal vaginitis: Caused by gonorrhea, symptoms include purulent secretions, redness, swelling and pain at the vaginal opening.
- Gardnerella vaginitis: Caused by Gardnerella, symptoms include increased leucorrhea, fishy odor, and vaginal burning.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease: Mostly caused by ascending vaginal infection, symptoms include lower abdominal pain, high fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms, which seriously affect fertility[2][4][9][10].
2. Clinical manifestations of vaginal infection
- Abnormal vaginal discharge: changes in color, texture and odor, such as yellow, green, foamy, tofu-like or bloody.
- Itching, burning, redness and swelling of the vulva.
- Painful or burning sensation during urination.
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
- Dull pain in the lower abdomen or systemic symptoms (in case of pelvic inflammatory disease).
3. Diagnostic methods
- Collection of medical history: understand symptoms, medication history, and sexual life status.
- Physical examination: observe vulvar and vaginal secretions.
- Secretion test: microscopic examination, pH test, bacterial culture.
- Auxiliary examination: colposcopy or cervical smear examination when necessary[4][7].
4. Preventive measures
- Avoid excessive vaginal cleaning, especially prohibit the use of detergents, disinfectants and vaginal lavage fluids to protect the natural vaginal flora.
- Keep the vulva clean and dry, wear breathable cotton underwear, and avoid tight clothing.
- Take a shower during menstruation and before and after sex, change sanitary products frequently, and avoid using sanitary pads for a long time.
- Practice safe sex, avoid multiple sexual partners, and use condoms.
- Wash underwear separately during illness to avoid cross infection.
- Eat a healthy diet, enhance immunity, and exercise regularly.
- Have regular gynecological examinations to detect and treat infections in a timely manner[2][6][9].
5. Treatment principles
- Identify the cause, use targeted medication, and avoid blind abuse of antibiotics.
- Treat partners at the same time to prevent repeated infections.
- Pay attention to the restoration of vaginal microecology, and use probiotics when necessary.
- Strictly follow the doctor’s instructions to complete the course of treatment to prevent drug resistance and recurrence[1][9][10].
Although vaginal infection is a common gynecological disease, its impact is far-reaching and involves reproductive health and quality of life. Scientifically understanding different types of vaginitis and mastering the correct prevention and treatment methods are the key to women’s self-care. Maintaining good living habits, regular physical examinations, and timely medical treatment can protect women’s health and keep away from the troubles of vaginal infections.
*This article combines authoritative medical information and the latest research to provide comprehensive and scientific knowledge and practical guidance on vaginal infections for women. *
“`
[1] https://www.who.int/zh/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/bacterial-vaginosis
[2] http://www.sz.gov.cn/ztfw/ylws/wyw_183957/ywzsk_184570/content/post_6603279.html
[3] https://www.chinagut.cn/indu/d/295af976804f4f95936967411c91a14f
[4] https://www.weibomedical.com/zh-hans/%E7%AE%80%E4%BB%8B5%E7%A7%8D%E9%98%B4%E9%81%93%E7%82%8E/
[5] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352279
[6] https://www.heal-fertility.com/sc/education/vaginitis-common-symptoms-treatment-methods-and-preventive-measures/
[7] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vaginitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354707
[8] https://health.ycwb.com/2025-06/17/content_53474838.htm
[9] https://www.c-ave.com/xwzx_xq/53.html
[10] https://epaper.cnwomen.com.cn/html5/2025-02/05/content_7_3056.htm
Leave a Reply