What are the symptoms of trichomonal and fungal vaginitis?

Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 28, 2024
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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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How is vaginitis treated?

If you get vaginitis, you should first go to the hospital to have a vaginal discharge test, because there are many types of vaginitis, and the treatment methods and medications vary. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the pathogen causing the vaginitis before medicating. Treatment can include both topical and oral medications. For trichomonal vaginitis, metronidazole can be used, both topically and orally. For fungal vaginitis, clotrimazole vaginal tablets can be used topically, or fluconazole can be taken orally. Bacterial vaginitis requires the use of antibiotics for treatment.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat vaginitis with medication

Vaginitis can be treated with oral medication and vaginal medication. For trichomoniasis vaginitis and yeast vaginitis, vaginal medications are quite effective, but these types can also be treated with oral medications. If it is bacterial vaginitis, it is best to use oral medication. Vaginitis is mainly related to sexual activity, so it is essential to maintain hygiene during sexual activity. It is important to wear breathable, cotton underwear and to expose sanitary products to sunlight to reduce the occurrence of vaginitis. It is advisable to have a steady sexual partner and avoid frequent sexual activity; generally, two to three times a week is most suitable.

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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.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What causes vaginitis?

The most common cause of vaginitis is due to sexual activity because sexual intercourse can cause changes in the pH level of the vagina, leading to a reduction in local resistance and the proliferation of pathogens. This can result in various types of vaginitis, such as fungal vaginitis, trichomonal vaginitis, and bacterial vaginitis, all of which are related to sexual activity. Therefore, it is essential to maintain hygiene during sexual activities, have a fixed sexual partner, maintain good lifestyle habits, avoid overwork and staying up late, as a stronger immune system can also reduce the likelihood of contracting vaginitis.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
58sec home-news-image

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.)