Vaginitis and Vaginal Yeast Infection Symptoms and Remedies

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that is usually accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge, itching and pain. It is usually caused by an imbalance of vaginal bacteria or an infection. Vaginitis can also be caused by reduced hormone levels that result after menopause.

The most common types of vaginitis are:

  • Bacterial vaginosis. This type of vaginitis is caused by an overgrowth of microorganisms present in the normally healthy vagina. Such an overgrowth can result in an imbalance of vaginal bacteria leading to vaginosis. It is estimated that nearly 17 of pregnant women in the United State have bacterial vaginosis.

  • Yeast Infections. This type of vaginitis is usually caused by a naturally occurring fungus called Candida albicans. It is estimated that nearly 75 of all women will contract a yeast infection during their lifetime.

  • Trichomoniasis. This type of vaginitis, usually transmitted by sexual intercourse, is caused by parasites.

  • Atrophic vaginitis. This form of vaginitis is caused by reduced estrogen levels that occur following menopause. Common symptoms include drier, thinner than normal vaginal tissues, itching, burning and pain.
Treatments for vaginitis vary and are different for each type.

Yeast Infection

Even though yeast infections are likely the most common type of vaginitis, they rank second in office visits because many women never consult a doctor for this type of infection. Some women with yeast infection treat themselves with over the counter products or may recover spontaneously.

Common symptoms of yeast infection include itching, redness and irritation. When the infection is severe the vulva may become swollen and fine breaks, called fissures, may appear. Vaginal discharge will grow thicker and often becomes clumpy.

As previously mentioned, yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of fungi that live in the vagina. The most common form of yeast infection is vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), which is caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. There are two varieties of vulvovaginal candidiasis: uncomplicated and recurrent. Uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis is a mild to moderate infection that responds well to treatment. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is usually more severe than uncomplicated VVC, especially in women with candida glabrata or uncontrolled diabetes. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis can require therapy for weeks or months.

Nutritional supplements that may be helpful for yeast infection

Lactobacillus acidophilus (a microorganic probiotic) is a friendly vaginal flora bacteria that helps to prevent the overgrowth of Candida, an unfriendly bacteria. Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria produces lactic acid, which is believed to act like an all natural antibiotic for the body.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is available in a variety of different forms. It can be taken orally as a capsule or powder, or in the form of acidophilus yogurt. It can also be administered vaginally as a suppository. One study has showed that women administered Lactobacillus acidophilus suppositories had a 50 decrease in risk of an episode or Candida vaginits.

A recommended dosage of acidophilus is three capsules or one quarter teaspoon of powder or acidophilus-containing yogurt douche daily for a few days or weeks. However, always follow manufacturers instructions or your physician’s recommendations.

Supporting Literature

Hilton E, Isenberg HD, Alperstein P, et al. Ingestion of yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus as prophylaxis for candidal vaginitis. Ann Intern Med 1992;116:353–357.
Neri A, Sabah G, Samra Z. Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy treated with yogurt. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 1993;72:17–19.
Eschenback H. Vaginal infection. 1983;26:186–202.
Vincent J, Voomett R, and Riley R. Antibacterial activity associated with Lactobaccillus acidophilus. J Bacteriol 1959;A78:477–484.