Vaginitis & cervicitis

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Vaginitis & cervicitis

Vaginitis and cervicitis are common gynecological conditions that involve inflammation or infection of the vagina and cervix, respectively. These conditions can cause discomfort, abnormal discharge, and other symptoms. Here's a detailed overview:

Vaginitis

Definition:
Inflammation or infection of the vagina caused by microbial imbalance, irritants, or infections.

Causes:

  1. Infections:

    • Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Overgrowth of harmful bacteria, disrupting the normal vaginal flora.
    • Yeast Infection: Caused by Candida albicans, a fungus.
    • Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis.

  2. Non-Infectious Causes:

    • Allergies or irritation from products like soaps, douches, or spermicides.
    • Hormonal changes (e.g., during menopause, pregnancy, or breastfeeding).

Symptoms:

  • Vaginal discharge (may be thick, thin, or foul-smelling).
  • Itching or irritation.
  • Burning sensation, especially during urination.
  • Pain or discomfort during intercourse.
  • Redness or swelling of the vaginal area.

Diagnosis:

  • Physical Examination: To assess signs of inflammation.
  • Lab Tests: Vaginal swab to identify the causative organism.
  • pH Testing: Vaginal pH is higher in certain infections like BV or trichomoniasis.

Treatment:

  1. Bacterial Vaginosis:

    • Antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole or clindamycin).

  2. Yeast Infection:

    • Antifungal creams, suppositories, or oral medications (e.g., fluconazole).

  3. Trichomoniasis:

    • Oral antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole or tinidazole).

  4. Non-Infectious Vaginitis:

    • Avoid irritants and use prescribed corticosteroid creams if needed.
    • Estrogen creams for hormonal-related vaginitis.

Cervicitis

Definition:
Inflammation of the cervix, often caused by infections or irritation.

Causes:

  1. Infectious Causes:

    • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as:
      • Chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis).
      • Gonorrhea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae).
      • Herpes simplex virus (HSV).
      • Trichomoniasis.
    • Bacterial overgrowth or imbalance (similar to BV).

  2. Non-Infectious Causes:

    • Chemical irritants (e.g., douches, contraceptive creams).
    • Allergic reactions (e.g., latex in condoms).

Symptoms:

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge (may be yellow, green, or foul-smelling).
  • Bleeding between periods or after intercourse.
  • Pelvic pain or discomfort.
  • Burning sensation during urination.
  • In many cases, cervicitis can be asymptomatic.

Diagnosis:

  • Pelvic Examination: Visualization of cervical inflammation or discharge.
  • Pap Smear: Screening for abnormalities or infections.
  • Culture or PCR Testing: To identify infectious organisms (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea).

Treatment:

  1. Infectious Cervicitis:

    • Antibiotics or antivirals based on the causative agent (e.g., azithromycin for chlamydia, acyclovir for herpes).

  2. Non-Infectious Cervicitis:

    • Avoidance of irritants or allergens.
    • Corticosteroid creams for severe inflammation.

Prevention of Vaginitis and Cervicitis

  • Practice safe sex (use condoms).
  • Avoid excessive use of douches, perfumes, or harsh soaps in the genital area.
  • Maintain proper hygiene.
  • Wear breathable, cotton underwear.
  • Get regular gynecological check-ups and STI screenings.

When to See a Doctor

  • Persistent symptoms like unusual discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding.
  • Symptoms that do not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
  • Recurrent episodes of infections.