Treatment of Vaginitis (Colpitis)

Discomfort in the vagina, a change in the nature of discharge, itching or burning — these are symptoms that are difficult to ignore. Often behind them is vaginitis (the second name — colpitis) — an inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the vagina. Despite the prevalence of this problem, many women postpone a visit to the doctor or try to select therapy on their own.

At the clinic “Oxford Medical” we approach this problem comprehensively: it is important not only to relieve unpleasant manifestations, but also to determine the exact cause of inflammation. It is the individual approach that makes it possible to achieve a lasting result and prevent relapses.

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the vagina that occurs as a result of a disturbance of the natural balance of microflora or under the influence of infectious and non-infectious factors. Normally, the vaginal microflora is represented predominantly by lactobacilli, which maintain an acidic environment and protect against pathogenic microorganisms. When this balance is disturbed, conditions for the development of inflammation appear.

It is these symptoms of vaginitis that most often become the reason for seeking medical attention. At the same time, similar manifestations may also occur in other diseases of the genitourinary system, therefore an accurate diagnosis is possible only after examination and laboratory tests.

Separately, it should be noted that the clinical picture may differ depending on age and physiological condition. In particular, vaginitis in girls often manifests with moderate discharge, redness, and itching, but without typical “adult” symptoms. This is related to the peculiarities of microflora and hormonal background in childhood.

The causes of vaginitis may be different, and for effective treatment it is important to establish the specific provoking factor. Most often, the development of the disease is caused by:

• bacterial, fungal, viral infections, including STIs;

• disturbance of the balance of vaginal microflora after taking antibiotics or frequent douching;

• hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or in endocrine disorders;

• decreased local or general immunity;

• allergic reactions to intimate hygiene products or synthetic underwear;

• mechanical irritation or microtrauma of the mucous membrane.

Understanding what exactly caused the inflammation makes it possible to select treatment that will not only relieve

During pregnancy, significant hormonal changes occur in a woman’s body. An increased level of progesterone and a change in vaginal acidity can create conditions for disturbance of microflora and the development of inflammation. That is why vaginitis in a pregnant woman is diagnosed quite often.

The inflammatory process during this period requires a careful approach to treatment. The doctor selects medications taking into account the stage of pregnancy and their safety for the fetus. Self-medication in such a situation is unacceptable.

It is also important to consider the period after childbirth, when the body gradually recovers and the mucous membrane may still remain sensitive to infections and irritants. Hormonal restructuring and microtraumas received during childbirth increase the risk of the development of an inflammatory process. Therefore, if discomfort or unusual discharge appears in the postpartum period, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist in a timely manner.

Timely diagnosis and properly selected therapy make it possible to avoid complications and ensure a safe course of both pregnancy and recovery after the birth of a child.

Effective treatment is impossible without accurate diagnosis. Since the manifestations of inflammation may be similar in various infections or disturbances of microflora, it is important not only to relieve the symptoms but also to establish the cause. That is why it is impossible to make a diagnosis on your own — examination by a gynecologist is necessary.

Diagnosis usually includes:

• a gynecological examination with assessment of the condition of the vaginal mucous membrane and the nature of discharge;

• a smear for flora to determine the composition of microorganisms;

• bacteriological culture to identify the pathogen and its sensitivity to medications;

• PCR testing if sexually transmitted infections are suspected;

• if necessary — additional blood tests or hormonal examination.

This approach makes it possible to accurately determine the cause of inflammation and choose therapy that will be effective specifically in your situation.

At the clinic “Oxford Medical” the examination is carried out comprehensively, which makes it possible to quickly establish the cause of the disease and begin treatment without unnecessary delays.

The approach to treatment always depends on the cause of inflammation. Therefore, the first step is to confirm the diagnosis and determine what exactly triggered the problem: disturbance of microflora, fungal infection, bacterial process, or another factor. It is this that determines which medications and in what form will be most effective.

The main methods used in modern practice:

• etiotropic therapy — medications that act on the cause of inflammation (antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral agents) in the form of local preparations and/or systemic treatment according to indications;

• local anti-inflammatory treatment to reduce swelling, burning, discomfort, and normalize the condition of the mucous membrane;

• restoration of vaginal microflora after the main stage of treatment, if according to test results there is an imbalance;

• correction of provoking factors — selection of gentle hygiene products, refusal of douching and other methods that may injure the mucous membrane, as well as correction of concomitant conditions that support inflammation;

• treatment of the sexual partner according to indications, if an infection that may be transmitted during contact is detected.

To quickly cure colpitis, it is important to consult a gynecologist in a timely manner, undergo full diagnostics, and follow the prescribed course of therapy. Self-medication or premature discontinuation of medications often leads to the transition of the disease into a chronic form and recurrent exacerbations. A comprehensive approach makes it possible not only to eliminate symptoms but also to reduce the risk of recurrence in the future.

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the vagina is not always limited to local discomfort only. If vaginitis is not treated or therapy is discontinued prematurely, the process may become prolonged and affect the condition of other organs of the reproductive system.

The most common complications:

• transition to a chronic form with periodic exacerbations;

• spread of the inflammatory process to the cervix, uterus, and adnexa;

• development of cystitis — inflammation of the bladder;

• persistent disturbance of vaginal microflora and frequent relapses;

• discomfort during sexual life due to prolonged irritation of the mucous membrane;

• increased risk of complications during pregnancy.

A prolonged inflammatory process may change the condition of the mucous membrane, making it more sensitive to infections and mechanical irritation. In case of repeated episodes, the development of chronic vaginitis is possible, which requires longer and more comprehensive treatment.

It is especially important to eliminate inflammation in a timely manner for women who are planning pregnancy. An active infectious process may affect the course of gestation and increase the risk of exacerbation during periods of hormonal changes.

Prevention of inflammatory diseases of the vagina is based on maintaining the natural balance of microflora and preserving local immune defense. Since the development of inflammation is often associated with a disturbance of this balance, following simple recommendations helps reduce the risk of recurrent episodes.

To reduce the likelihood of developing inflammation, it is important to:

• maintain moderate and gentle intimate hygiene without using aggressive cleansing products;

• avoid frequent douching, which disrupts the natural microflora of the vagina;

• use barrier methods of contraception to prevent sexually transmitted infections;

• promptly treat urogenital infections and concomitant gynecological diseases;

• monitor hormonal levels during menopause or in endocrine disorders;

• wear underwear made of natural fabrics and avoid prolonged wearing of tight clothing;

• undergo preventive examinations by a gynecologist even in the absence of complaints.

Special attention to prevention should be paid by women who have already had episodes of inflammation. Recurrent relapses are often associated with an inadequately treated process or the persistence of provoking factors.

Regular examination by a doctor makes it possible to timely detect changes in microflora and prevent the development of an inflammatory process even before pronounced symptoms appear.

The cost of treatment of colpitis is determined individually, as it depends on the scope of necessary diagnostics and the selected therapy regimen. In some cases, a basic examination is sufficient; in others, an extended list of laboratory tests may be required. The duration and format of treatment may also differ among patients. Therefore, it is impossible to determine the exact cost of treatment of vaginitis in advance.

You can find out the price of a gynecologist consultation here. During the appointment, the doctor will conduct an examination, prescribe the necessary tests, and create an individual treatment plan.

To receive professional assistance, it is enough to make an appointment at a time convenient for you by phone or through the online form on the website.