What other factors besides yeast infection, can cause vaginitis?

Vaginitis is caused by the following conditions:

• Yeast infection
• Bacterial Vaginosis
• Trichomoniasis
• Allergies and irritants
• Lack of estrogen

Sometimes more than one cause.

Yeast infection (candidiasis)

Yeast infections occur when the yeast "Candida" is multiplied excessively. Most people have small amounts of yeast in the mouth and intestines. Many healthy women have yeast in the vagina.However, sometimes too much yeast multiplies and causes a yeast infection.

The yeast can overgrow the normal state when the vagina is altered for the following reasons:

• Certain antibiotics
• Diabetes
• Certain medications, such as cortisone
• Weak immune system
• Normal changes in hormone levels
• Pregnancy

It happens only in women. Men can have yeast infections. Men who develop yeast infections may notice some redness and irritation on the penis or scrotum.Although infections are not contagious, contact with the partner may stimulate the growth of yeast.

Both women and men can get yeast infections in the mouth, throat or tongue. When this occurs, is called "thrush."

Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

A healthy vagina, by nature, have bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis is a condition caused by an alteration in the balance of different types of bacteria in the vagina. One of the most common types of bacteria is the Gardnerella vaginalis.

Sometimes bacterial vaginosis is caused by sexual activity that can alter the normal balance of bacteria that protect the vagina.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection. Also known as "vaginal trichomonas infection." This infection is one of the most common causes of vaginitis. Learn more about trichomonas vaginal infection .

Allergies and irritants

Some women are allergic to products that are placed in the vagina.Some objects and chemicals left in the vagina can cause irritation.Both allergies and irritants can cause vaginitis.

The vagina or vulva may have allergy or irritation from exposure to:

• Douches
• Feminine hygiene sprays
• Panty liners, sanitary napkins or tampons scented
• Perfumed soaps, bubble baths or powders
• Shampoos and hair conditioners
• Scented toilet paper or colored
• Laundry detergents (in particular, the formulas for "cold" enzyme-activated) and fabric softeners
• Condoms and diaphragms latex
• Silicone cervical caps or protectors
• Spermicide
• Using tight pants or underwear, or socks without a cotton crotch
• Using a wet swimsuit for long periods
• Riding a horse
• Friction against the seat of a bicycle
• Water pools and hot tubs

Lack of estrogen

Some women have a type of vaginitis called "atrophic vaginitis". Is a flow vaginal irritation. It occurs when estrogen levels decrease for women.

Estrogen levels are lower in the following periods:

• Lactation
• Menopause
• When the ovaries are damaged or when they are removed by surgery

Low levels of estrogen cause dryness and thinness of the vaginal tissue. This factor can also cause bleeding. The creams and oral medications with estrogens may be useful.

Recurrent vaginitis Vaginitis is called "recurrent" when a woman has this infection four times a year or more. It can be caused by the following factors: Conditions such as diabetes or HIV, which weakens the immune system Incomplete treatment of previous infections New infections or irritations that are repeated Discover the cause and cure can be difficult. Suffering from recurrent vaginitis can be very frustrating. Consult with your health care often if you have this condition.