Vaginal infections
Vaginal infections are very common in women of all ages. The main types are yeast infection (thrush, a fungal infection), bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis. They cause changes in discharge, itching or a bad smell. They are usually easy to treat, but some need treatment of the husband too, and any infection in pregnancy should be checked by a health worker.
Symptoms
- Itching or burning around the vagina
- Thick white discharge like curd (yeast infection)
- Thin grey or white discharge with a fishy smell (bacterial vaginosis)
- Yellow-green, frothy discharge (trichomoniasis)
- Pain or burning when passing urine
- Pain during sex
Causes
- Overgrowth of yeast — more common in pregnancy, diabetes, or after antibiotics
- A change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria (bacterial vaginosis)
- Trichomoniasis, passed on through sex
- Washing inside the vagina or using perfumed soaps
- Tight, non-cotton underwear and staying damp
Prevention
- Wash the outside area with plain water; do not wash inside the vagina
- Wear loose cotton underwear and keep the area dry
- Use clean, dry cloths or pads during periods and change them often
- Control blood sugar if you have diabetes
- Take antibiotics only when prescribed
- If you have trichomoniasis, your husband should be treated at the same time
Treatment
- Antifungal pessaries, cream or tablets for yeast infections (for example clotrimazole or fluconazole)
- Antibiotic tablets or gel for bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis (for example metronidazole), prescribed by a doctor
- Treatment of the husband for trichomoniasis
- In pregnancy, only use treatment chosen by a doctor or midwife
- Do not use antibiotics without a doctor
Common questions
Is vaginal discharge always a sign of infection?
No. A small amount of clear or white discharge without itching or a bad smell is normal and changes during the month. See a health worker if it changes colour, smells bad, or comes with itching or pain.
Does my husband need treatment too?
For trichomoniasis, yes — both partners must be treated at the same time or the infection will come back. For yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, the husband usually does not need treatment.