A vaginal infection is an infection of the vagina with symptoms similar to an STI. It is not an STI, and you do not get the infection by having sex.
The infection is caused by a fungus (candida) or by bacteria (bacterial vaginosis).
You can prevent most vaginal infections with proper hygiene.
Antibiotics and stress can cause vaginal infections. Do not use antibiotics unless it is necessary.
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.
