Vaginal Infections

Vaginal infections are characterized by vaginal discharge, burning and itching sensations, painful urination and/or an unpleasant smell. The most common forms of such infections include yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis. These infections occur when the balance of good and bad bacteria within the vagina gets disrupted, which may happen due to pregnancy, frequent douching, diabetes, taking certain birth control medications, steroid treatments, excessive drinking of alcohol or wearing the wrong type of underwear. Diagnosing a vaginal infection usually involves a physical exam and medical history, and may also include blood and urine testing and vaginal cultures. Vaginal infections should be treated due to the possibility of complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, involvement of other parts of the body, and premature births. Effective treatments are available, including antibiotic and antifungal medications.