Last Updated on June 4, 2020 by Nancy Carteron, MD, FACR
STD Symptoms – Vaginitis
Vaginitis is a name for swelling, itching, burning or infection in the vagina that can be the result of different factors.
The most common kinds of vaginitis are bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast, a fungus. Sometimes, trichomoniasis (trich, pronounced ‘trick’) is called vaginitis too. Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasitic protozoa called Trichomonas vaginalis.
Typically, vaginitis produces a vaginal discharge. The appearance and amount of the discharge tends to vary depending on the cause. However, different infections can cause similar discharges.
Rarely, the folds of skin around the vaginal and urethral openings become stuck together. Sometimes, symptoms are mild or do not occur at all.
General Vaginitis Symptoms May Include:
- A change in vaginal discharge
- A change in vaginal odor
- Irritation or itching of the vagina and/or genital areas
- Pain with sexual intercourse
- Redness, pain, and swelling of genital area
Bacterial Vaginosis Specific Symptoms
Some cases of BV are so mild women don’t know they have it. If a woman does have symptoms, they may include:
- A strong fishy smell, especially after sex
- Watery or foamy discharge
- White or grey discharge
Yeast Infection Specific Symptoms
- A smell like baking bread
- Pain, itching, burning, or redness around the vagina
- Thick, white ‘cottage cheese’ discharge
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Did this help you identify your STD Symptoms? Do you still have questions about your STD symptoms or would you like to share how your symptoms were similar/different? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
