You're Offline
The page will automatically refresh once you get online
Vaginitis is soreness and swelling in and around the vagina. It's common and usually treatable.
Symptoms of vaginitis include:
You might not have all these symptoms.
Vaginitis has lots of possible causes.
Your symptoms might give you an idea what's causing it. But do not self diagnose, get medical help if you're worried.
| Symptoms | Possible cause |
|---|---|
|
Symptoms
White and lumpy discharge (like cottage cheese), itching and soreness |
Possible cause |
|
Symptoms
Yellow, green or smelly discharge, pain when peeing or having sex |
Possible cause
A sexually transmitted infection like trichomoniasis or chlamydia |
|
Symptoms
A dry, itchy vagina and pain when having sex |
Possible cause
Hormone changes from the menopause, breastfeeding or some types of contraception |
|
Symptoms
Itchy, sore patches around your vagina and on other parts of your body |
Possible cause
A skin condition like eczema or lichen planus |
Vaginitis can also be caused by irritation (for example, from soap), an injury to your vagina or something in your vagina (like a tampon).
Do not have sex until you've seen a doctor or nurse. You could have a sexually transmitted infection.
Sexual health clinics treat problems with the genitals and urine system.
Many sexual health clinics offer a walk-in service, where you do not need an appointment. They'll often get test results quicker than GP surgeries.
To find out what's causing your vaginitis, a doctor or nurse may:
You can ask the doctor or nurse to stop at any point if you find it too uncomfortable.
Treatment for vaginitis depends on the cause.
For example, you may need:
There are things you can do to ease symptoms of vaginitis and reduce your chances of getting it again.
wash around your vagina with water and dry thoroughly
wear loose, cotton underwear
use pads instead of tampons when you're on your period
use condoms and lubrication when having sex
do not clean inside your vagina (douching)
do not have hot baths
do not use scented hygiene products in or around your vagina, such as soaps and deodorants
