Vaginal Infection

If you’re bothered and embarrassed by unusual discharge, burning or itching in the genital area, or discomfort during sex, you may have a vaginal infection. Simone Lomax, DNP, WHNP, can diagnose and promptly treat infections at Align Women's Health in Jamaica, New York. You don’t have to endure irritating symptoms or wonder what to do next — Align Women’s Health provides personalized care and fast relief. Book your appointment by calling the office or using the online scheduler today.

What is a vaginal infection?

Vaginal infections, or vaginitis, happen when something disrupts your vagina’s natural balance of yeast and bacteria. There are several kinds of vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis, but yeast infections are the most familiar.

No matter what kind of vaginal infection your provider diagnoses, they all come with uncomfortable symptoms, and Align Women’s Health aims to provide relief.

What symptoms indicate vaginal infection?

If it hurts to urinate or have sex, it’s a good idea to talk to your provider. Other symptoms include vaginal irritation or itching, as well as spotting or light vaginal bleeding.

Pay particular attention to changes in your discharge’s amount, color, or odor, since different infections come with characteristic symptoms.

Who is at risk for vaginal infections?

While anyone with a vagina can experience an imbalance, some factors increase your risk for infections, such as:

• Douching or over-washing
• Antibiotics
• Unprotected sex
• Poor hygiene
• Clothing that is tight or traps moisture

Hormonal changes, often associated with birth control, pregnancy, or menopause, can also cause vaginal infections as your body struggles to adjust to a new normal.

How are vaginal infections treated?

Depending on your type of infection, your Align Women’s Health provider adjusts your treatment plan.

Yeast infections

Oral medications, antifungal creams, or ointments help clear up the infection.

Bacterial vaginosis

Your provider will typically manage this type with antibiotics.

Trichomoniasis

You and any sexual partners will need oral antibiotics to address this infection.

How can I prevent a vaginal infection?

Once your infection clears up, your provider can help you make simple adjustments to reduce your likelihood of recurrence. They may recommend you:

• Wear breathable clothing, particularly underwear
• Avoid douching
• Practice safe sex and communicate with partners about STIs
• Avoid products with heavy scents, including perfumed soaps or wipes
• Change out of wet clothes promptly, whether they’re swimsuits or gym wear
• Wipe front to back

Vaginal infections are incredibly common and not something to feel embarrassed about. Whether you have a round of antibiotics that leads to a yeast infection or notice an unusual smell or discharge that seems to come out of nowhere, Align Women’s Health offers safe, effective ways to treat and prevent them.

If symptoms of a vaginal infection don’t go away in a few days, schedule a check-in with Align Women’s Health. You can schedule an appointment by calling the office or booking online today.