Vaginal disorders and infections can occur because of an allergic reaction, engaging in unprotected sex, and imbalances of yeast and bacteria. Here are a few of the most common vaginal infections and conditions that should be treated by a vaginal specialist:
 
• Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections that actually raise your risk of contracting additional STIs. This infection is caused by a parasite and can cause inflammation, redness, and vaginal pain.
 
• Chlamydia
Chlamydia is the most common STI in women from the ages of 18 to 35 and can be easily resolved with the proper treatment.
 
• Candida
Otherwise known as a yeast infection, this vaginal condition is caused by too much fungus candida in the vagina. This can cause inflammation, irritation, and burning in your genitals.
 
• Bacterial Vaginitis
Bacterial vaginitis is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina often leading to abnormal vaginal odors.
 
• Viral Vaginitis
Viral vaginitis can be caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) or herpes simplex virus (HSV). This type of infection can be very painful and cause warts, sores, and rashes in the genitals. Viral vaginitis is spread through sex and should be treated as soon as possible.
 
• Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer is a rare form of cancer that a vaginal specialist or gynecologist can screen for. This cancer occurs in the birth canal and can eventually spread throughout your body if not treated quickly. Fortunately, it is quite uncommon. Symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful urination, watery vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, and a lump in your vagina are all indicators of vaginal cancer.

Common symptoms and signs of a vaginal problem include:
 
• Pain during sex
• Burning or stinging sensation when going to the bathroom
• Abnormal vaginal discharge color and smell
• Vaginal pain
• Swelling
• Redness
• Warts, sores, or rashes
• Vaginal bleeding

Go to the doctor if you show any of the above symptoms. It’s important to get looked at immediately, especially if you think you may have contracted a sexually transmitted infection. One of our doctors will provide you with the treatment and medical attention you need. Practicing safe sex and stopping the spread of infections is essential!
 
The moment you start to feel itchiness, tenderness, pain, or swelling, schedule an appointment with a women’s healthcare specialist. It is our main goal to make sure you are healthy and well! If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a vaginal specialist can also screen you for more serious conditions such as cancer.

To prevent vaginal conditions and infections from occurring, follow these tips:

• Practice safe sex (use condoms, get tested regularly)
• Avoid using vaginal sprays and douches, especially scented ones
• Practice good hygiene
• Avoid super tight clothes that don’t have any breathability
• Make sure to take probiotics
• Go to your doctor at least once a year for a check-up
 
Whether you need an annual checkup or are experiencing symptoms of a vaginal condition, give one of our locations a call. Feel free to ask us any questions about your appointment with one of our specialized women’s healthcare physicians and how we can help you get back to your normal self! Suburban Healthcare Associates would love to see you happy, healthy, and in the clear of all vaginal infections and conditions. We serve patients from Naperville IL, Plainfield IL, Joliet IL, Romeoville IL, Shorewood IL, Crest Hill IL, and Aurora IL.