Vaginal Infections: Symptoms, Causes, and How to Treat Them

Vaginal infections are among the most common health problems experienced by women. This condition is usually marked by itching, burning, or swelling in the vaginal area, as well as abnormal vaginal discharge.

In fact, vaginal discharge is normal. Normal discharge is clear or white, has no strong odor, and functions to keep the vagina clean.

The vagina contains various organisms, including cells, good bacteria, and yeast. Discharge helps remove dead cells while keeping yeast and bacterial growth under control.

However, if the discharge changes color, has a strong odor, or is accompanied by itching and irritation, it may be a sign of a vaginal infection.

This usually occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, allowing certain bacteria or fungi to overgrow.

As a result, the texture, color, and smell of the discharge also change.

Causes of Vaginal Infections

1. Yeast infections

This type of vaginal infection occurs when yeast, especially Candida albicans, grows excessively in the vagina.

Yeast can also cause problems in other moist areas of the body, such as the mouth (thrush), skin folds, nail beds, or even diaper rash in babies.

Symptoms include thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese, along with itching or burning in the vagina and vulva.

2. Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

BV occurs when there is an imbalance between healthy and unhealthy bacteria in the vagina. It often causes thin, clear, or white discharge in larger amounts, often with a distinctive fishy odor.

3. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms may include yellowish or greenish discharge, irritation, redness, and swelling in the vaginal area.

4. Other sexually transmitted infections

STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can also cause vaginal infections. Symptoms usually involve yellowish discharge accompanied by discomfort.

Symptoms of Vaginal Infections

Symptoms vary depending on the cause. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. In general, you should see a doctor if you experience:

• Vaginal discharge that changes color, becomes thicker, or has a different odor
• Itching, burning, swelling, or pain around or inside the vagina
• A burning sensation during urination
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Chills, fever, or pelvic pain

Itching and irritation can occur at any time, but often get worse at night. Sexual activity may also worsen the symptoms.

How to Prevent Vaginal Infections

Maintaining proper feminine hygiene can help prevent certain types of vaginitis from recurring and ease the symptoms. Here are some prevention tips:

• Avoid soaking too long. Hot tubs, bathtubs, or spa whirlpools can make the vaginal area damp and prone to irritation.
• Stay away from irritants. Tampons, pads, douches, and scented soaps can irritate. Use mild, fragrance-free soap, rinse the outer genital area thoroughly after bathing, and dry completely. Avoid harsh soaps with deodorants, antibacterial agents, or excessive foam.
• Wipe correctly after using the toilet. Always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anus from spreading to the vagina.
• Avoid douching. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ. Douching disrupts the natural balance of good bacteria and increases the risk of infections. Remember, douching cannot cure an infection.
• Practice safer sex. Use condoms and limit the number of sexual partners to reduce the risk of contracting STIs.
• Wear cotton underwear. Cotton absorbs sweat better and keeps the area dry. Choose stockings with a cotton crotch, and consider going without underwear at night. This can help prevent yeast growth in moist environments.

Never ignore your vaginal health. If symptoms of infection interfere with your daily activities, seek medical help right away to prevent the condition from getting worse.

References

Every Stage Health. Accessed in 2025. Think You Have a Vaginal Infection? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Vaginitis.

WebMD. Accessed in 2025. Vaginitis (Vaginal Infection)