Vaginitis

Diagnosis

It is impossible to diagnose vaginitis based on symptoms alone. Therefore, your doctor will perform a medical exam and inspect the vaginal fluid under a microscope to make an accurate diagnosis. Doctors will obtain a swab from inside the vagina, and then test the pH and look under a microscope at the type of cells present before making a diagnosis. If your doctor is concerned that you could be infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia, he or she will also send a swab of your vaginal fluid to a lab to check for these infections.

Prevention and Screening

Condoms can help prevent the spread of trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted diseases. Always change condoms between anal and vaginal intercourse.

Since yeast thrive in moist conditions, keeping the genital area dry and well-ventilated will decrease the risk of candidiasis. To decrease the risk of a yeast infection, do not sit around in a wet bathing suit; do not wear tight-fitting clothes or synthetic pants; wear cotton underpants; avoid pantyhose and leotards; thoroughly dry the genital area before dressing.

Avoid allergic vaginitis by eliminating use of perfumes, scented and colored toilet paper, harsh, scented, or deodorant soaps, and scented or deodorant sanitary pads or panty liners. Do not use douches, feminine hygiene sprays, bubble bath, or scented or deodorant sanitary pads or tampons. Use unscented, white toilet paper.

Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to help prevent bacteria and fungi common in the intestines from coming in contact with the opening to the vagina.