Vaginitis

Vaginitis is an inflammation or infection of the vagina that can cause itching, burning, pain, discharge, and bad odor.

Vaginitis is often caused by infections, which can be passed through sexual contact or occur if there is a change in the balance of organisms normally found in the vagina.

Symptoms can include unusual discharge from the vagina, itching, and burning.

A provider will do a physical exam and may study a sample of fluid from the vagina and do other lab tests.

The treatment needed depends on the type of vaginitis a woman has but usually includes medicines.

Without treatment, symptoms of vaginitis can worsen. Some types of vaginitis can increase a woman's risk of getting or spreading sexually transmitted infections.

Some types of vaginitis can cause problems during pregnancy.

Yes, taking care of vaginal health and practicing safe sex can help prevent vaginitis.

NICHD conducts and supports research on vaginitis and on many disorders associated with it.

NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to vaginitis.

Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about vaginitis.