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Vaginitis
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Women

Vaginitis

Vaginitis is a common inflammation or infection of the vagina and vulva that often results from a bacterial or yeast imbalance.

What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis, also called vulvovaginitis, is an inflammation or infection of the vagina. It can also affect the vulva, which is the external part of a woman's genitals. Vaginitis can cause itching, pain, discharge, and odor.

Vaginitis is common, especially in women in their reproductive years. It usually happens when there is a change in the balance of bacteria or yeast that are normally found in your vagina. There are different types of vaginitis, and they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

What causes vaginitis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection in women ages 15-44. It happens when there is an imbalance between the "good" and "harmful" bacteria that are normally found in a woman's vagina. Many things can change the balance of bacteria, including:

  • Taking antibiotics
  • Douching
  • Using an intrauterine device (IUD)
  • Having unprotected sex with a new partner
  • Having many sexual partners

Yeast infections (candidiasis) happen when too much candida grows in the vagina. Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. You may have too much growing in the vagina because of:

  • Antibiotics
  • Pregnancy
  • Diabetes, especially if it is not well-controlled
  • Corticosteroid medicines

Trichomoniasis can also cause vaginitis. Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is caused by a parasite.

You can also have vaginitis if you are allergic or sensitive to certain products that you use. Examples include vaginal sprays, douches, spermicides, soaps, detergents, or fabric softeners. They can cause burning, itching, and discharge.

Hormonal changes can also cause vaginal irritation. Examples are when you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or when you have gone through menopause.

Sometimes you can have more than one cause of vaginitis at the same time.

What are the symptoms of vaginitis?

The symptoms of vaginitis depend on which type you have:

  • BV: You may not have symptoms. You could have a thin white or gray vaginal discharge. There may be an odor, such as a strong fish-like odor, especially after sex.
  • Yeast infections: Produce a thick, white discharge from the vagina that can look like cottage cheese. The discharge can be watery and often has no smell. Yeast infections usually cause the vagina and vulva to become itchy and red.
  • Trichomoniasis: You may not have symptoms. If you do have them, they include itching, burning, and soreness of the vagina and vulva. You may have burning during urination. You could also have gray-green discharge, which may smell bad.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To find out the cause of your symptoms, your health care provider may ask about your medical history, do a pelvic exam, look for vaginal discharge, or study a sample of your vaginal fluid under a microscope. In some cases, you may need more tests.

Treatment depends on the type of vaginitis:

  • BV: Treatable with antibiotics (pills, cream, or gel). During treatment, you should use a condom during sex or not have sex at all.
  • Yeast infections: Usually treated with a cream or medicine placed inside the vagina. You can buy over-the-counter treatments, but you should see your health care provider if this is your first time having symptoms or before using over-the-counter treatments.
  • Trichomoniasis: Usually treated with a single-dose antibiotic. Both you and your partner(s) should be treated.
  • Allergies/Sensitivities: You need to identify and stop using the product causing the problem.
  • Hormonal changes: Your health care provider may give you estrogen cream to help with symptoms.

Health Risks and Prevention

It is important to treat BV and trichomoniasis, as they can increase your risk for getting HIV or another STI. If you are pregnant, these conditions can increase your risk for preterm labor and preterm birth.

To help prevent vaginitis:

  • Do not douche or use vaginal sprays.
  • Use a latex condom when having sex. If you or your partner is allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane condoms.
  • Avoid clothes that hold in heat and moisture.
  • Wear cotton underwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yeast infections typically produce a thick, white, clumpy discharge that resembles cottage cheese, often accompanied by intense itching and redness, but usually without a strong odor. Bacterial vaginosis, in contrast, is characterized by a thin, grayish-white discharge with a distinct, fishy smell that may become stronger after sexual intercourse. While both can cause irritation, the texture of the discharge and the presence of odor are key differentiating factors for self-assessment before seeing a provider.
Douching disrupts the natural balance of protective Lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina, allowing harmful bacteria or yeast to overgrow. It also pushes bacteria higher into the reproductive tract, increasing the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. The safe alternative is to wash only the external vulva with warm water or a mild, unscented soap. The vagina is self-cleaning and does not require internal washing.
Using OTC antifungal creams without a confirmed diagnosis is not recommended if symptoms are atypical, such as if you have a foul odor, greenish discharge, or sores, as these may indicate bacterial vaginosis or an STI like trichomoniasis, which require prescription antibiotics. Misdiagnosis can delay proper treatment and allow the infection to worsen. If this is your first episode or if symptoms do not improve after three days of OTC treatment, you should see a healthcare provider for a swab test.
Yes, stress and dietary changes can contribute to recurrences. High stress levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder to keep yeast and bacterial populations in check. A diet high in refined sugars can also promote yeast overgrowth in susceptible individuals. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and maintaining a balanced diet with lower sugar intake may help reduce the frequency of recurrent episodes.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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