Vaginal infections
A vaginal infection is an infection of the vagina and has similar symptoms to an STI. It is not an STI. You often do not get the infection from sex.
The infection is caused by a fungus (candida) or by bacteria (bacterial vaginosis).
You can prevent most vaginal infections if you take good care of your vagina. Antibiotics and stress can also cause vaginal infections. Only take antibiotics when they are prescribed by a doctor.
You may have a vaginal infection if you have one or more of the following symptoms:
- vaginal discharge that is different from usual:
- liquid discharge that smells bad;
- a lot of discharge that is water-like or white and crumbly;
- pain during sexual intercourse;
- irritation, itching or redness of the vagina and the area around it;
- pain when urinating;
- swelling of the labia.
If you think you have a vaginal infection, talk about it with your general practitioner. A vaginal infection can be treated easily. The doctor will give you a prescription for a medicine or cream. Some medicine can be bought without a prescription, but it is important to talk to your doctor before buying any medication.
Ask your general practitioner whether your partner needs to be tested and treated as well.
Woman talking with a doctor.