Vaginal infections

A vaginal infection is an infection of the vagina and has similar symptoms to an STI, but it is not. You often do not get the infection from sex. The infection is caused by a fungus (candida) or 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 necessary and prescribed by your healthcare provider.

You may have a vaginal infection if you have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Vaginal discharge that is different from usual. This liquid discharge smells bad and it 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 peeing.
• Swelling of the the lips of the vagina (labia).

If you think you have a vaginal infection, talk to your healthcare provider. A vaginal infection can be treated easily. The healthcare provider will give you a prescription for medicine or cream. Ask your healthcare provider for advice if your partner needs to be tested and treated as well.