Colpitis corresponds to inflammation of the vagina and cervix caused by bacteria, fungi or protozoa and which leads to the appearance of white and milky vaginal discharge. This inflammation is more frequent in women who have frequent intimate contact and who do not use condoms during sexual intercourse, especially.
The diagnosis of colpitis is made by the gynecologist based on the analysis of the symptoms described by the woman, observation of the intimate region and carrying out some tests to confirm the disease. From the identification of the microorganism that causes the colpitis, the doctor can indicate the best treatment.
Types of colpitis
According to the cause, colpitis can be classified into:
- Bacterial colpitis: This type of colpitis is caused by bacteria, mainly Gardnerella sp . Inflammation caused by infection with this type of bacteria leads to an unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge and pain during intimate contact. Learn how to identify Gardnerella sp . Fungal colpitis: Fungal colpitis is caused mainly by fungi of the genus Candida , which is normally present in the woman's vagina, but in the face of favorable conditions of temperature and humidity, they can proliferate and cause infection. See how the treatment for genital candidiasis is done. Protozoan colpitis: The main protozoan responsible for colpitis in women is Trichomonas vaginalis , which causes a burning sensation, burning and a lot of urge to urinate. Learn to identify trichomoniasis symptoms.
In order to know which microorganism is responsible for the colpitis, it is necessary that the gynecologist request the performance of a microbiological examination that must be done through the collection of vaginal secretion, which is performed in the laboratory. From the result of the exam, the doctor can establish the treatment according to the cause.
Colpitis can also be classified according to the signs and symptoms presented in:
- Diffuse colpitis, which is characterized by the presence of small red spots on the vaginal mucosa and on the cervix; Focal colpitis, in which round red spots can be seen on the vaginal mucosa; Acute colpitis, which is characterized by swelling of the vaginal mucosa in addition to the presence of red dots; Chronic colpitis, where white and red spots are observed in the vagina.
From the observation of the signs during the gynecological examination, the doctor will be able to indicate the severity of the inflammation, in addition to assessing the risk of complications, such as endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease, for example.
Main symptoms
Vaginal inflammation is characterized mainly by the presence of homogeneous whitish vaginal discharge and similar to milk, but it can also be bullous. Some women may also experience an unpleasant odor, usually similar to fish, which worsens after intimate contact. In addition, the presence of small red or white dots on the vaginal mucosa and cervix may be observed in some cases, as well as swelling of the region. Learn more about the symptoms of colpitis.
The diagnosis of colpitis is made by the gynecologist through tests such as colposcopy, the Schiller test and the pap smear, for example, however the pap smear is not very specific for the diagnosis of colpitis and does not show signs of vaginal inflammation very well.. Meet the Schiller test.
How is the treatment
The treatment of colpitis is done with the use of drugs that must be administered orally or applied directly to the intimate region. Although it is not a serious situation, vaginal inflammation should be treated as soon as possible, to avoid aggravating the injury, as it facilitates the occurrence of other diseases such as HPV and AIDS, for example.
During treatment it is recommended that the woman does not have sex, not even with a condom, as the rubbing of the penis in the vagina can be uncomfortable. See how treatment for colpitis is done.
