VAGINITIS (VAGINAL INFECTIONS)

Most women have been there. You're distracted and squirming in your chair because it doesn't feel right down there. Perhaps there's a smell that's a little, well, funkier, than usual. You want to do something to make it stop, now.

Although it can be darned uncomfortable, it's not the end of the world. You could have an infection caused by bacteria, yeast, or viruses. Chemicals in soaps, sprays, or even clothing that come in contact with this area could be irritating the delicate skin and tissues.

It's not always easy to figure out what's going on, though. You'll probably need your doctor's help to sort it out and choose the right treatment.

Types of Vaginitis

Doctors refer to the various conditions that cause an infection or inflammation of the vagina as "vaginitis." The most common kinds are:

Bacterial Vaginosis
Candida or "yeast" infections
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Reactions or allergies (non-infectious vaginitis)
Triachomoniasis
Viral vaginitis

Although they may have different symptoms, a diagnosis can be tricky even for an experienced doctor. Part of the problem is that you could have more than one at the same time.