What is Vaginitis

Vaginitis is irritation and swelling (inflammation) of the vagina. It happens when normal bacteria and yeast in the vagina grow too much. There are many types of this condition. Treatment will depend on the type you have.

Follow these instructions at home:

Lifestyle

• Keep your vagina area clean and dry.
  • Avoid using soap.
  • Rinse the area with water.
• Do not do the following until your doctor says it is okay:
  • Wash and clean out the vagina (douche).
  • Use tampons.
  • Have sex.
• Wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom.
• Let air reach your vagina.
  • Wear cotton underwear.
  • Do not wear:
    • Underwear while you sleep.
    • Tight pants.
    • Thong underwear.
    • Underwear or nylons without a cotton panel.
  • Take off any wet clothing, such as bathing suits, as soon as possible.
• Use gentle, non-scented products. Do not use things that can irritate the vagina, such as fabric softeners. Avoid the following products if they are scented:
  • Feminine sprays.
  • Detergents.
  • Tampons.
  • Feminine hygiene products.
  • Soaps or bubble baths.
• Practice safe sex and use condoms.

General instructions

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
• If you were prescribed an antibiotic medicine, take or use it as told by your doctor. Do not stop taking or using the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important.

Contact a doctor if:

• You have pain in your belly.
• You have a fever.
• Your symptoms last for more than 2–3 days.

Get help right away if:

• You have a fever and your symptoms get worse all of a sudden.

Summary

• Vaginitis is irritation and swelling of the vagina. It can happen when the normal bacteria and yeast in the vagina grow too much. There are many types.
• Treatment will depend on the type you have.
• Do not douche, use tampons , or have sex until your health care provider approves. When you can return to sex, practice safe sex and use condoms.