Vaginitis essays

Vaginitis essays Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina characterized by discharge, irritation, and itching caused mainly by hormonal imbalance, infections, and irritants to the vaginal region. The cause of Vaginitis cannot be determined solely on the basis of symptoms or a physical examination. Hormonal imbalances include atrophic Vaginitis, which is usually found in postmenopausal women. Infections generally are caused by Bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis.1 Irritants are substances used that may agitate the vaginal region. Some vaginal infections are transmitted through sexual contact, but others such as yeast infections probably are not, depending on the cause. Bacterial vaginosis is most commonly found in women within childbearing years. This is often associated with sexual activity.2 The primary symptom of BV is an abnormal, odorous vaginal discharge; a fish-like odor that is noticeable especially after intercourse.2 A sample of vaginal fluids may be taken in order to determine this form of Vaginitis. Researchers have shown a connection between Bacterial vaginosis and PID. Metronidazole or Clindamycin are two commonly used antibiotics that treat Bacterial vaginosis. Gonorrhea and HIV are also two possible outcomes of Bacterial vaginosis.2 Trichomoniasis, sometimes referred to as "trich," is a common STD that affects 2 to 3 million Americans yearly.2 Trich is contracted through sexual intercourse. 3 Symptoms of Trichomoniasis are usually noticeable 4 to 20 days after exposure. Symptoms in women include a heavy, yellow-green or gray vaginal discharge, discomfort during intercourse, vaginal odor, and painful urination. Irritation and itching of the female genital area, and on rare occasions, lower abdominal pain also can be present. 3 Metronidazole is the drug used to treat people with trichomoniasis; since men and women both are affected by Trich, it is best for both partners t ...