It can be easy to take your vaginal health for granted — until you experience discomfort or other unusual symptoms. Vaginal infections are surprisingly common, but recognizing the signs can help you seek prompt treatment and find relief quickly.
At Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville, our experienced OBGYNs, Daniel McDyer, MD, and Julian Stephen Suhrer, MD, provide comprehensive women’s healthcare, including well-woman exams, STD testing, and birth control services.
Vaginal infections, also referred to as vaginitis, can occur because of an imbalance in the natural bacteria in the vagina (bacterial vaginosis), fungal overgrowth (yeast infections), or even through sexual contact (trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted viruses).
Don’t ignore these subtle symptoms. Early intervention helps prevent complications and minimizes disruption to your daily life. Read on to learn about five common signs of vaginal infections.
Vaginal infections can cause irritation and itching in the vagina and vulva (the external genitalia). The sensation may range from a mild annoyance to an intense, constant itch that interferes with your sleep routine or concentration at work.
You may also notice redness and swelling around the vaginal opening. It’s important to avoid scratching or rubbing the affected area roughly, as this can worsen irritation and potentially introduce bacteria. See our team for helpful solutions that treat the root cause of the itch and discomfort.
Every woman experiences some level of vaginal discharge, a natural bodily fluid that helps keep the vagina clean and moist. Typically, this fluid is clear, white, or slightly cloudy and may have a mild, but not unpleasant, odor.
However, when an infection is present, discharge may change in color, consistency, odor, or amount. Here are some examples:
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can cause a thin, greyish-white discharge with a distinctive odor, often described as fishy.
An unusually thick, white discharge with no noticeable smell usually indicates a yeast infection. Around three-quarters of women have at least one yeast infection at some point.
This non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) can cause a frothy, green, or yellow discharge with an unpleasant odor.
Painful urination may bring to mind a urinary tract infection (UTI), but it may also be a symptom of a vaginal infection. These infections can result in a burning sensation when you urinate and an increased urgency to go.
Your sex life may also be impacted by a vaginal infection, with discomfort or pain making intercourse feel less enjoyable or deterring you from intimacy altogether. In some cases, even inserting a tampon can feel uncomfortable.
Experiencing bleeding or spotting between your periods is considered unusual and could be a sign of a vaginal infection. This unexpected bleeding can range from faint spotting to a heavier flow resembling a light period.
Persistent or unexplained bleeding warrants medical attention, even though some spotting can be typical, especially during the first few months of starting a new birth control method.
Dr. McDyer and Dr.Suhrer provide a judgment-free and supportive environment where you can discuss any concerns. Call Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Florida, today to schedule an appointment or book online.
