Vaginal Infections: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatment Options
Vaginal infections are extremely common among women of all ages. They can cause discomfort, itching, discharge, and sometimes pain — but the good news is, most infections are easily treatable when diagnosed on time.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options helps women maintain better intimate hygiene and overall health.
This blog explains everything about vaginal infections in a simple, clear, and helpful format.
🔸 What Are Vaginal Infections?
A vaginal infection occurs when there is an imbalance in the vaginal environment due to harmful bacteria, fungi, or parasites.
The vagina normally contains good bacteria that maintain proper pH levels. When this balance is disturbed, infection can develop.
🔸 Common Types of Vaginal Infections
1️⃣ Yeast Infection (Fungal Infection / Candidiasis)
Caused by excess growth of Candida fungus.
Symptoms:
- Thick white “curd-like” discharge
- Intense itching
- Redness or swelling
- Burning sensation
- Pain during intercourse
2️⃣ Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Caused when good bacteria reduce and harmful bacteria increase.
Symptoms:
- Thin grey/white discharge
- Fishy smell, especially after intercourse
- Mild itching or irritation
3️⃣ Trichomoniasis (Sexually Transmitted Infection)
Caused by a parasite (Trichomonas vaginalis). Spread through sexual contact.
Symptoms:
- Yellow-green frothy discharge
- Foul smell
- Burning sensation during urination
- Vaginal soreness
4️⃣ Vaginal Irritation From Chemicals / Allergies
Possible triggers include:
- Scented sanitary pads
- Perfumed soaps, gels, or sprays
- Detergents
- Bubble baths
- Tight synthetic clothing
Symptoms:
- Redness
- Burning
- Mild discharge
- Dryness or irritation
🔸 Common Causes of Vaginal Infections
- Poor intimate hygiene
- Wearing tight or non-cotton underwear
- Unprotected sexual contact
- Frequent douching
- Antibiotics (killing good bacteria)
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Diabetes
- High humidity or sweat in the vaginal area
- Weak immunity
🔸 Symptoms Women Should Not Ignore
- Unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Itching or burning sensation
- Pain during urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding between periods
- Swelling or redness
- Green or frothy discharge
- Recurrent infections
If symptoms last more than 48 hours, medical evaluation is essential.
🔸 Diagnosis: What Your Doctor Will Do
A gynecologist may perform:
- Physical examination
- Vaginal swab test
- Urine test
- pH level testing
- STI screening (if needed)
Diagnosis is quick and painless.
🔸 Treatment Options
1. Antifungal Medicines
For yeast infections — creams, tablets, or oral medication.
2. Antibiotics
For bacterial vaginosis — oral or vaginal antibiotics.
3. Anti-Parasitic Medication
For trichomoniasis — a single-dose oral treatment.
4. Avoiding Chemical Products
Stop using scented products that irritate the vagina.
5. Treating Underlying Causes
Hormonal imbalance, diabetes, or immunity issues must be addressed for long-term relief.
⚠️ Important:
Never self-medicate with OTC creams — it can worsen symptoms or mask the actual infection.
🔸 Prevention Tips for Women
- Maintain proper vaginal hygiene
- Wear breathable 100% cotton underwear
- Change sanitary pads every 4–6 hours
- Avoid scented soaps or vaginal washes
- Keep the area dry — moisture increases fungal growth
- Urinate after intercourse
- Avoid sharing towels or intimate products
- Manage blood sugar levels
- Strengthen immunity with good nutrition & hydration
🔸 When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical help if:
- Symptoms persist longer than 2–3 days
- There is severe itching or pain
- You have recurrent infections
- Discharge is green, grey, or foul-smelling
- You suspect an STI
- You develop fever along with symptoms
- You are pregnant and have vaginal discomfort
Early treatment prevents complications and ensures faster relief.
🔸 Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bhanushali for Women’s Intimate Health?
At Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic and Aayush Multispecialty Hospital, we provide:
- Accurate diagnosis with advanced tests
- Gentle, confidential, and comfortable consultation
- Women-friendly environment
- Effective treatment for all types of vaginal infections
- Counseling for prevention & long-term care
- Management of related issues like PCOD, hormonal imbalance, pelvic pain, irregular periods & more
Your privacy and comfort are always our priority.
📍 Contact & Appointments
🏥 Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic
Shop No 4, Laxmi Krupa, Edulji Road, Charai, Thane West – 400602
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
📘 FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575038219095
📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ankur_surgicalclinic/
🏥 Aayush Multispecialty Hospital
👨⚕️ Dr. Ankur Bhanushali – General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
📧 Email: dr.ankur.bhanushali@gmail.com
📘 FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573840205822
📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/surgeon_dr_ankur_bhanushali
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ankur-bhanushali-b85aab2a6/
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 Online Booking: https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
