Daily Health Regimen Q&A Women’s Health

What are the symptoms of vaginitis

Asked by:Erin

Asked on:Apr 04, 2026 12:47 AM

Answers:1 Views:582
  • Amanda Amanda

    Apr 04, 2026

    Symptoms of vaginitis mainly include vulvar itching, abnormal discharge, discomfort during urination, pain during sexual intercourse, vulvar redness and swelling, etc. Vaginitis may be related to bacterial infection, fungal infection, parasitic infection, changes in hormone levels, allergic reactions and other factors. It usually presents with symptoms such as abnormal color of secretions, peculiar smell of secretions, burning sensation in the vulva, congestion of vaginal mucosa, frequent urination and urgency. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly and carry out standardized treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

    1. Vulvar itching

    Vulvar itching is a common symptom of vaginitis, characterized by persistent or intermittent itching of the vulva, which may be accompanied by a burning sensation. The itching can range from mildly uncomfortable to unbearable and may worsen at night. Fungal vaginitis is often accompanied by white tofu-like discharge accompanied by severe itching, while bacterial vaginosis may be accompanied by fishy-smelling discharge. Avoid scratching when the vulva is itchy. You can use clotrimazole vaginal tablets or miconazole nitrate suppositories as directed by your doctor. At the same time, keep the vulva clean and dry.

    2. Abnormal secretions

    Vaginitis can cause increased discharge and changes in color and texture. The secretions of bacterial vaginosis are often grey-white and thin with a fishy smell, the secretions of candida vaginitis are mostly white curd-like, and the secretions of trichomonas vaginitis may be yellow-green foamy. Abnormal discharge may contaminate underwear and cause discomfort. You can use metronidazole vaginal gel or clindamycin phosphate vaginal suppository as directed by your doctor, and avoid using irritating lotions to clean the vulva.

    3. Discomfort in urination

    Vaginitis may cause burning or pain during urination. In severe cases, symptoms of frequent urination and urgency may occur. This is caused by inflammation irritating the urethral opening, especially common in trichomonas vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis. Discomfort in urination may be mistaken for a urinary tract infection and needs to be identified through a gynecological examination. You can use tinidazole effervescent vaginal tablets or nystatin vaginal suppositories as directed by your doctor, and increase your daily water intake to help relieve symptoms.

    4. Pain during sexual intercourse

    Vaginitis may cause pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse due to congestion, edema and inflammatory reaction in the vaginal mucosa. Pain may persist during or after sexual intercourse, affecting the quality of your sexual life. Atrophic vaginitis is common in postmenopausal women and is caused by decreased estrogen levels leading to vaginal dryness and pain. You can use estriol cream or lactic acid bacteria vaginal capsules as directed by your doctor. It is also recommended to avoid sexual intercourse during treatment.

    5. Redness and swelling of vulva

    Vulvar redness and swelling is a common sign of vaginitis, which is characterized by redness and swelling of the vulvar skin, which may be accompanied by an increase in local temperature. In severe cases, cracks or ulcers may occur, increasing the risk of secondary infection. Allergic or contact vaginitis is common with obvious symptoms of redness and swelling. You can use boric acid lotion for sitz bath or external application of compound ketoconazole ointment as directed by your doctor, and wear loose cotton underwear to reduce friction and irritation.

    Patients with vaginitis should pay attention to keeping the vulva clean and dry, and avoid using soap or shower gel to clean the vulva directly. It is recommended to choose mild water or special lotion. Change underwear every day and wash it in boiling water, and avoid wearing pants that are too tight. Reduce the intake of spicy foods and appropriately supplement yogurt containing probiotics to help maintain the balance of vaginal flora. During the treatment period, you should follow the doctor's instructions and complete the entire course of medication to avoid relapse caused by voluntary discontinuation of medication after symptoms are relieved. If symptoms persist or worsen, follow-up visits should be made in a timely manner to adjust the treatment plan.

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