Vaginitis can be caused by many different types of organism, although the symptoms tend to be similar.

The most common causes are described below.
Thrush
Thrush infection caused by a fungus (candida albicans) is the most common cause of vaginitis and is a cause of irritation for many women.

Symptoms are itching in the crotch area and vagina, but increased discharge is not necessarily present.

Fungus in the vagina is almost always caused by a change in the vagina's acid balance, which leads to an increase in fungus growth. Fungus is often seen after taking antibiotics.

There is not always an obvious reason why a woman has a thrush infection. Many women recognise the symptoms themselves and obtain treatment from the chemist. If you're uncertain, you should see your doctor.

Diagnosis is straightforward and can be confirmed by taking a swab from the vagina. Treatment is either with pessaries (tablets in the vagina) or tablets by mouth.

Trichomonas
Trichomonas is caused by a small organism called a flagellate. It is common to experience an abundant greenish-yellow discharge, an itching, burning sensation, or pain in the vagina.

Diagnosis is performed by analysing a swab of the discharge. Treatment is a short course of antibiotics.

Bacterial vaginosis
Gardnerella vaginalis (bacterial vaginosis) is caused by the growth of bacteria that causes the acidity of the vagina to become more alkaline. It commonly causes a greyish, foamy discharge with a fishlike smell.

Diagnosis is carried out by analysing a swab from the discharge. Treatment is a short course of antibiotics.

Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is caused by the gonococcus bacteria, and is only transmitted sexually.

Gonorrhoea can be present without any symptoms, but some people have burning pain when urinating. However, gonorrhoea is rarely seen these days.

Diagnosis is confirmed by analysing a swab from the cervix, urethra (entrance to the bladder) or back passage. Treatment is with antibiotics.

Sexual partners should also be traced, tested for gonorrhoea and treated.

Chlamydia
Chlamydia is an unusual cause of vaginitis, since infection often does not produce symptoms unless pelvic inflammatory disease is present. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Diagnosis is made by analysing a sample taken from the cervix or the urethra. Treatment is with antibiotics.

Sexual partners should be traced, tested and treated.

Herpes
Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus and is usually a sexually transmitted disease.

It is possible to infect the genital area with the virus via contact with a cold sore (the viruses are part of the same family). Herpes is seen at the entrance to the vagina as small blisters.

The first time a person has herpes, fever is common, general discomfort is experienced, urination is painful, and the lips and entrance to the vagina are swollen and red.

Diagnosis is made by a doctor based on the appearance and with special swabs sent for analysis. Antiviral treatment is often recommended.

Unfortunately, herpes infections often return, although the symptoms are usually less severe.