VAGINITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Vaginitis is a medical term used to describe the inflammation or infection of the vagina, which is the muscular canal in the female reproductive system that connects the uterus to the external genitalia. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as itching, burning, redness, discomfort, pain during sexual intercourse, abnormal discharge, and an unpleasant odor.
Vaginitis is most commonly caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, where there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria, fungi, or parasites. It can also be triggered by hormonal changes, certain medications, irritants such as douches or scented products, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or a weakened immune system.
There are different types of vaginitis, including bacterial vaginosis, which occurs when there is an overgrowth of harmful bacteria; yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis), caused by the fungus Candida; and trichomoniasis, which is an STI caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.
Diagnosis of vaginitis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, such as a vaginal swab or culture. Treatment options depend on the specific cause and may include antifungal or antimicrobial medications, oral or topical creams, or suppositories. It is also important to maintain good vaginal hygiene, avoid irritants, practice safe sex, and follow prescribed treatments to prevent recurrent vaginitis.
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Inflammation of the vagina, colpitis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VAGINITIS
Etymology of VAGINITIS
The word "vaginitis" is derived from two elements: "vagina" and "-itis".
The term "vagina" comes from Latin and is the anatomical term for the female reproductive organ that connects the uterus to the external opening. It originally meant "sheath" or "scabbard" in Latin, as it was seen as a protective covering.
The suffix "-itis" is derived from Ancient Greek and is used to indicate inflammation or swelling. It is commonly added to the end of anatomical terms to denote an inflammatory condition.
Therefore, combining "vagina" with "-itis" forms "vaginitis", which refers to inflammation or infection of the vagina.
Similar spelling words for VAGINITIS
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