Common vaginal yeast infection, smell and discharge vary... Which smell is dangerous?

Vaginitis is common enough to be called a woman's cold. However, if left untreated, it can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease. In severe cases, it can lead to infertility and chronic pelvic pain, which may require surgery. Missing the treatment window can also cause discomfort in daily life, so it is important to monitor symptoms and seek early medical attention. Based on information from American health media 'Health' and other sources, we introduce the types of vaginitis to watch out for and their symptoms.

Bacterial vaginitis that causes a fishy odor, prone to recurrence

Bacterial vaginitis is characterized by a fishy, rotten smell. Bacterial vaginitis occurs when the normal flora inside the vagina loses its dominance, allowing anaerobic bacteria or gram-negative bacilli to proliferate more than 100 times. It is believed to be caused by frequent sexual intercourse, washing deep into the vagina with water, or excessive mucus secretion resulting from cervical erosion. Once vaginal lactobacilli are lost, it is difficult for them to re-establish, leading to frequent recurrences of bacterial vaginitis. Complications can include infertility and preterm birth.

White cheese-like discharge, caused by Candida vaginitis due to mold

It occurs when hygiene is poor, and is known to be caused by frequent antibiotic use and weakened immunity. The most common form of vaginitis is characterized by cheesy discharge. It is accompanied by thick white discharge and severe itching. In severe cases, the surrounding vulva becomes swollen and inflamed, turning red. Sometimes, the itching becomes so unbearable that unconscious scratching causes wounds and pain. Candida, a type of fungus, is the main cause, and it can grow in pregnant women, people who take oral contraceptives for a long time, diabetics with compromised immune function, or those who use antibiotics for an extended period.

Trichomonas vaginitis with a smell as if water is flowing

Trichomonas vaginitis is usually accompanied by a large amount of foamy vaginal discharge and itching. It is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas. It is transmitted through sexual contact and has a very high infectivity. Complications include infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and preterm labor. If a watery discharge with a fishy smell is present, Trichomonas vaginitis should be suspected. Trichomonas vaginitis is a type of sexually transmitted infection, and it is advisable to also test for gonorrhea and chlamydia infections.