What is vaginal inflammation during pregnancy?

Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 13, 2024
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Due to the increase in body weight and the rapid rise in hormone levels during pregnancy, pregnant women are prone to vaginitis, and the risk of infection may also significantly increase. The three more common types of vaginitis include trichomoniasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, and bacterial vaginosis. The presence of these three types of vaginitis can manifest as an increase in vaginal discharge accompanied by vulvar itching. Specific tests for vaginitis are needed based on the characteristics of the vaginal discharge and the results of the vaginitis tests, to determine the specific type of vaginitis and treat accordingly based on the type.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the medicines for treating vaginitis?

There are many medications for treating vaginitis, but there are also many types of vaginitis, and the medication course and treatment methods vary for different types. If one contracts vaginitis, it is necessary to go to the hospital promptly for tests on vaginal discharge to identify the pathogen before starting medication. For trichomoniasis vaginitis, oral metronidazole or tinidazole can be used for treatment. For fungal vaginitis, clotrimazole vaginal tablets can be inserted, or oral itraconazole or fluconazole can be taken. For bacterial vaginitis, oral clindamycin can be used, or metronidazole can be administered. Treatment should be based on the specific pathogen, enabling quick recovery from vaginitis. Note: Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Which medicine is best for fungal vaginitis?

For the treatment of fungal vaginitis, the main drugs include miconazole nitrate suppositories, clotrimazole-based preparations, or antifungal agents. These medications are generally very sensitive, and only a very few people with long-term fungal vaginitis may develop resistance. In such cases, it is necessary to perform a culture and drug sensitivity test. Only a minority of people require this kind of culture, and the final choice of sensitive drugs can treat the condition. For recurrent fungal vaginitis, it is necessary to strengthen the treatment and extend the course of therapy. Oral medications such as fluconazole can also be used.

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Written by Zhang Yin Xing
Obstetrics
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What should I do if I get vaginitis during pregnancy?

Vaginitis during pregnancy should be actively treated, generally choosing vaginal medications. Vaginal medications typically do not enter the bloodstream and are not absorbed by the fetus, thus not affecting the growth and development of the fetus. Vaginitis during pregnancy can lead to chorioamnionitis, and intrauterine infection of the fetus may lead to premature rupture of membranes, subsequently causing preterm birth or miscarriage. During pregnancy, the vaginal environment undergoes changes. There is an increase in the number of vaginal epithelial cells and secretions, which appear as white, paste-like substances. The glycogen level in the vaginal epithelial cells rises, the lactic acid content increases, and the pH decreases, making it prone to fungal vaginitis. However, this environment is unfavorable for the growth of other pathogenic bacteria and is beneficial in preventing bacterial infections.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of trichomonal and fungal vaginitis?

Trichomonal vaginitis primarily presents with symptoms such as vulvar itching, yellow purulent vaginal discharge, and a foul odor; severe cases can cause vaginal congestion and edema. If it is candidal vaginitis, the main symptom is severe vulvar itching, sometimes accompanied by vulvar edema. Scratching may reveal scratch marks on the vulva. The discharge in this type of vaginitis typically resembles cottage cheese and usually does not have an odor, but a foul smell may occur if there is a bacterial co-infection. In terms of treatment, these two types of vaginitis require different approaches. Trichomonal vaginitis can be treated with metronidazole or tinidazole, whereas candidal vaginitis can be treated with clotrimazole vaginal tablets. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Symptoms of Candidal Vulvovaginitis

The main symptoms of candidal vulvovaginitis include itching and a burning sensation of the vulva. There is pain during urination, and in severe cases, swelling of the vulva can occur. Some people may scratch due to the itching, leading to breaks in the skin of the vulva, and sometimes even fissures in the vulval skin. These are symptoms of candidal vulvovaginitis. Another typical symptom is a cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge, which is seen at the vaginal opening as curdy, and is difficult to remove.