Itching, burning sensation, irritation, and increased discharge, which is often malodorous, are symptoms that usually accompany vaginitis, i.e., inflammation of the vaginal mucosa, and have at times affected all women at various periods of their lives.
Although the symptomatology of vaginitis is specific, its causes are numerous and diverse.
Bacterial vaginitis is the most common vaginal inflammation, followed by vaginitis caused by the Candida fungus, and vaginitis due to trichomoniasis or chlamydia.
However, beyond the development of a pathogenic microorganism inside the vagina, vaginitis can also be caused by other factors. Thus, atrophic vaginitis, which mainly occurs during menopause, is due to a decrease in estrogen concentration, while atypical vaginitis is a non-specific vaginitis. Also, the use of spermicidal creams, vaginal suppositories, condoms, and generally products with irritating agents can lead to allergic vaginitis.
However, whatever the etiological factor for the appearance of vaginitis, the primary cause that led to it or its result is the disruption of the normal vaginal flora. That is, the reduction in the population of beneficial microorganisms, mainly lactobacilli, which are naturally present in the vagina as well as in other areas of our body (intestinal and oral cavity, and skin) and whose main role is to provide natural protection against various pathogenic microbes.
Unfortunately, these beneficial microorganisms can be disrupted by many factors such as medication (antibiotics, antifungals, contraceptives, chemotherapy drugs), menopause, menstruation, and daily stress.
The restoration and maintenance of lactobacilli in sufficient populations through the use of probiotic products, which provide ready-to-use beneficial microorganisms, appears to be ideal & necessary.
This information is intended for general public knowledge and awareness and can in no way replace the advice of a physician or other competent healthcare professional.