Vaginal Infections

What it is

Changes in discharge or odor, itching, burning, and discomfort during intercourse can be signs of vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and other forms of vaginitis. Because the symptoms are similar to one another, gynecological assessment — with a clinical exam and, when necessary, laboratory tests — is important to identify the cause and recommend the correct treatment, avoiding unnecessary medication use. Clinical treatment uses specific medications and guidance on intimate care and, in some cases, also includes the partner.

Most common symptoms

• Discharge with altered color, amount or consistency
• Unpleasant odor in the genital area
• Itching in the vulva or vagina
• Burning when urinating
• Pain or discomfort during intercourse
• Redness and irritation of the vulva
• Light bleeding after intercourse

Causes and risk factors

• Imbalance of the vaginal flora (bacterial vaginosis)
• Fungi of the Candida genus (candidiasis)
• The Trichomonas protozoan, transmitted through intercourse
• Allergy or irritation from soaps, pads and intimate products
• Drop in estrogen during menopause (atrophic vaginitis)
• Antibiotic use, vaginal douching and non-breathable clothing

How it is diagnosed

Because the symptoms of different infections are similar, an in-office assessment is essential. Your gynecologist discusses the type of discharge, itching, odor, sexual activity and use of products or medications. The gynecological exam looks at the vulva, vagina and the characteristics of the discharge, which can be analyzed in the office, with pH measurement and microscopic examination. When necessary, culture, testing for sexually transmitted infections and other laboratory tests are ordered to identify the exact cause.

How we treat it at Femi Saúde

Treatment depends on the identified cause: antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis, antifungals for candidiasis, and avoiding the irritant in contact vaginitis. During menopause, vaginal estrogen may be indicated for atrophic vaginitis. Femi Saúde's gynecology team provides guidance on intimate care that helps prevent new flare-ups, such as avoiding douching and scented products, and treats the partner when the infection is sexually transmitted, as with trichomoniasis. In recurring cases, maintenance regimens may be proposed and, when indicated, options such as CO₂ laser and photobiomodulation. The plan is individualized.

What we offer