Non-infectious / Chemical Vaginitis?

Occasionally, a woman can have itching, burning, and even a vaginal discharge without having an infection. The most common cause is an allergic reaction or irritation from vaginal sprays, douches, or spermicidal products. Additionally, the skin around the vagina can be sensitive to perfumed soaps, detergents and fabric softeners.

Another non-infectious form of vaginitis results from a decrease in hormones because of menopause or because of surgery that removes the ovaries. In this form, the vagina becomes dry. This is referred to as atrophic vaginitis. The woman may notice pain, especially during sexual intercourse, as well as vaginal itching and burning.

Treatment of Vaginitis

The key to proper treatment of vaginitis is proper diagnosis. This is not always easy since the same symptoms can exist in different forms of vaginitis. You can greatly assist your doctor by paying close attention to exactly which symptoms you have and when they occur, along with a description of the colour, consistency, amount, and smell of any abnormal discharge. Do not douche before visiting your doctor as it will make accurate testing difficult or impossible. Some doctors ask that you abstain from sex for 24 hours before your appointment.

Because different types of vaginitis have different causes, the treatment needs to be specific to the type of vaginitis present. It is best to seek medical advice before self-treating with over-the-counter medications.

‘Non-infectious’ vaginitis is treated by changing the probable cause. If you recently changed your soap or laundry detergent or have added a fabric softener, you might consider stopping the use of the new product to see if the symptoms improve. The same instruction would apply to a new vaginal spray, douche, sanitary napkin or tampon. If the vaginitis is due to hormonal changes, oestrogen may be prescribed to help reduce symptoms.

Prevention of Vaginitis

There are certain things that you can do to decrease the chance of getting vaginitis. If you suffer from yeast infections, it is usually helpful to avoid garments that hold in heat and moisture. The wearing of nylon underwear, tights without a cotton panel, and tight jeans can lead to yeast infections. Good hygiene is also important. In addition, doctors have found that if a woman eats yoghurt that contains active cultures (read the label) she may get fewer infections.

Because they can cause vaginal irritation, most doctors do not recommend vaginal sprays or heavily perfumed soaps for cleansing this area. Likewise, douching may cause irritation or, more importantly, may hide a vaginal infection. Douching also removes the healthy bacteria that help keep the vagina clean. Removing these bacteria can result in, or worsen, vaginitis.

Safe sexual practices can help prevent the passing of infections between partners. The use of condoms is particularly important.

If you are approaching menopause, have had your ovaries removed or have low levels of estrogen for any reason, discuss with your doctor the use of oestrogen in the form of pills, creams, or vaginal rings to keep the vagina lubricated and healthy.

Good health habits are important. Have a cervical smear as often as advised. If you have multiple sexual partners, you should request screening for sexually transmitted infections.