Infections

We recommend that you see us immediately if you experience any of the following:

• This is your first vaginal infection.
• You have unusual vaginal discharge.
• There is a bad odor.
• There is a chance you have an STD.
• You have a strong, persistent urge to urinate.
• Your urine is cloudy or has a strong odor.
• Your urine is tinged with blood.
• You have pain or burning during urination.
• You have new sores or lesions in or near your vagina.

Many gynecological infections fall under the category of vaginitis. This is the term we use to describe an inflammation or infection of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching and pain. The most common types of vaginitis are:

• Yeast infections, caused by a naturally occurring fungus
• Bacterial vaginosis, resulting when an overgrowth of one of several organisms normally present in the vagina upsets the natural balance of vaginal bacteria
• Trichomoniasis, caused by a parasite generally transmitted through sexual intercourse
• Atrophic vaginitis, resulting from reduced estrogen levels after menopause

Your symptoms will depend on the type of vaginitis you have but may include:

• Itching or irritation
• A change in the color, odor or amount of vaginal discharge
• Pain during intercourse
• Bleeding
• Pain while urinating

Pearl Women’s Center practitioners are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of vaginal infections. Your practitioner will take a sample of vaginal discharge and examine it under a microscope to determine the type of vaginitis you have. Once this is determined, the appropriate treatment will be prescribed. Screening for sexually transmitted infections may be recommended at the time of evaluation.

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are common bladder disorders that are more common in women than men. Symptoms can come on very suddenly and generally include:

• An urgent need to urinate
• Burning or pain during urination
• Frequent urination
• Cloudy or strong smelling urine sometimes tinged with blood

The urinary system includes the bladder, the kidneys and the urethra. The type of UTI you have will depend on which of the systems is involved. Additional signs and symptoms can include:

• Back pain
• Fever
• Shaking and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pelvic pressure
• Pain in the lower abdomen

Pearl Women’s Center practitioners are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of UTIs. Your practitioner will begin with a simple urine test to check for bacteria and other abnormalities. If necessary, additional tests may be conducted. Treatment generally involves a course of antibiotics.

PID is an infection of the reproductive organs that can result in serious complications if left untreated. For a discussion of PID see our Pelvic Disorders page.