Women's Health
What's causing my vaginal symptoms?
Ask the doctors
Q. For the past week I've been dealing with vaginal itching, burning, and discharge. What might be causing these symptoms?
A. Vaginitis, inflammation of the lining inside the vagina, sounds like the culprit. But vaginitis — which can also include vaginal odor and soreness inside and around the vagina and vulva — is an umbrella term encompassing several distinct conditions that inflame or infect the vagina, all with different causes and treatments.
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About the Authors
Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
Hope Ricciotti, MD, Editor at Large, Harvard Women's Health Watch
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