In addition, vulvovaginitis involves inflammation of the external parts of female genital organs. Causes of vaginitis include infection, changes in hormonal balance, mechanical irritation, and allergic reactions. Vaginitis is often uncomfortable and can become very painful. You may experience an abnormal discharge, as well as itching, burning, pain or irritation upon urination and during intercourse. However, sometimes a routine checkup indicates presence of vaginitis.
Normal discharge is transparent or cloudy-white, generally has little odor and causes no irritation.
The amount and consistency of the discharge may vary according to a particular woman s phase of menstrual cycle, her psychological condition and her state of sexual arousal. The vagina of a healthy woman contains many organisms that coexist in normal balance. When there is an excess of certain organisms, an abnormal discharge accompanied by an unusually strong and unpleasant odor may result. Vaginitis accounts for over 50 percent of all gynecologic office visit in the U.S. Proper medication and finishing the entire prescription are often necessary to fully eliminate the cause vaginitis. However, despite the effectiveness of the medication, vaginitis can return.