“The diagnosis of these types of conditions is made through a medical evaluation, where the characteristics of the vaginal discharge and the symptoms that the patients present will be analyzed, seeking to propose a treatment adapted to each condition,” says Dr. Bergica Martinez, obstetrician and gynecologist at our clinic.

What are vaginal infections?

They are alterations produced by microorganisms that are normally present in the vagina or that have been introduced into it during sexual contact, physical activity or due to poor hygiene.

What types of vaginal infections exist?

There are several types depending on the agent that causes them: fungi, bacteria, some germ acquired sexually or a combination of both. The most common are: vaginal yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and chlamydia.

What are the causes of vaginal infections?

The causes range from alterations in the eating pattern, stress, lack of hygiene, inappropriate sexual practices, continuous use of antibiotics, uncontrolled diabetes, use of wet or tight clothing, among others.

Signs and symptoms can include:

Irritation in the external area of the genitals, vaginal discharge of different colors: white, yellow or grayish, which can cause itching and a bad smell, slight vaginal bleeding, pain when urinating and during sexual intercourse.

What complications can vaginal infections present if they are not treated?

If left untreated, vaginal infections can become chronic, altering the quality of life of patients, since it limits their daily activities and intimate relationships. They can also affect fertility and increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, associated with premature birth and low birth weight.

Dr. Bergica Martinez
Obstetrician and gynecologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma