Sustainable intimate care solutions

VAGINAL INFECTIONS

 
Vaginal infections are the most common and troublesome complaint for which women frequently consults a gynaecologist or other health care provider.
The 3 most common vaginal infections, their causes and typical symptoms are:

 

 

Vaginal infection and cause

Typical Symptoms*

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

The vagina normally contains mostly “good” bacteria, and fewer “harmful” bacteria. BV develops when there is an increase in
harmful bacteria, often Gardnerella Vaginalis.
  1. Unusual discharge (white, grey or yellowish)
  2. Unpleasant fishy odour
  3. Itching
  4. pH>4.5

Yeast Infection

Small amounts of yeast are always

present in the vagina. Yeast infection is caused by overgrowth, typically by

Candida albicans.
  1. Intense itching
  2. Unusual discharge (white, cottage cheese-like discharge)
  3. Swelling and pain around the vulva 
  4. Normal pH (3.8 – 4.5)

Trichomoniasis

Is sexually transmitted and caused by a microscopic parasite called Tricomonas vaginalis
  1. Itching
  2. Burning
  3. Unusual discharge (typically frothy, yellow with a bad odour)
  4. pH>4.5

 

*Always consult your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis


It is a misconception that yeast infection is the most common vaginal infection. Recent research has shown that Bacterial Vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age and overall twice as common as yeast infection2).