About Recurrent Vaginal Infections
Vaginitis, better known as a vaginal infection, is considered recurrent or chronic when you experience it three times or more within a year, or if symptoms are not fully cured. This condition often requires a personalized and thorough approach to determine if it’s caused by a bacterial or yeast infection, whether the pathogen is resistant to the prescribed treatment, or if the cause lies somewhere else.
For many women, this becomes a frustrating cycle where a round of medications brings temporary relief, only for symptoms to return sometime later. Our gynecological experts at Arizona Specialized Gynecology are used to treating complex and recurrent infections like these that can have their root in several causes.
Main Culprits of a Vaginal Infection in Phoenix, Arizona
Dr. Joseph Brooks is the leading gynecology expert with over ten years of experience taking care of women’s health in Phoenix, Arizona. He can determine the source of your condition to treat it accordingly with a personalized approach. A chronic vaginal infection can be caused by several culprits. Our experts can discern whether the cause of your problem is:
- An untreated resistant strain
- An underlying imbalance in vaginal flora
- A partner who is unknowingly reinfecting you
- A vaginal condition that mimics an infection but isn’t actually one
Symptoms of a Chronic Vaginal Infection
While each underlying cause has its own set of specific symptoms, there are some that are common in most cases of a chronic vaginal infection. These can include:
- Vaginal inflammation, itching, burning, and irritation
- Changes in color, smell, or texture of vaginal discharge
- Pain when urinating, during sex, or when inserting tampons
- Bleeding or spotting outside of your regular menstrual cycle
Is It a Chronic Vaginal Infection or Something Else?
However, not all recurrent irritations are actually infections. There are certain conditions that can mimic the symptoms of one, but require a different approach. Some of the vaginal conditions that might seem like a chronic infection but aren’t actually one include:
Vulvodynia
A condition that causes pain and discomfort in the vaginal area, demanding immediate medical attention. Leaving it untreated can cause complications when doing regular activities.
Yeast infection
While this condition might be similar to a chronic vaginal infection, it requires the particular approach that an expert like Dr. Brooks can provide to prevent pathogens from thriving.
Lichen sclerosus
An autoimmune disease that mimics the symptoms of an infection but isn’t actually one. Specialized diagnosis and treatments are necessary to keep this disease under control.
Because our team specializes in vulvovaginal diseases and pelvic pain, we can treat complex conditions that require expertise to provide diagnosis and treatment such as these in Phoenix, Arizona.
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When to Go to a Gynecologist Over a Recurrent Infection?
Having a recurrent vaginal infection is a situation that requires immediate medical attention to uncover its cause and provide the necessary treatment to prevent any further complications. You should schedule a consultation with our expert gynecologists if you experience any of the following:
- Aggravating symptoms that interfere with your daily life
- Symptoms that return three or more times in a year
- No relief after a full course of prescribed treatment
- Uncertainty about what’s causing your symptoms
FAQ
What gets mistaken for a vaginal infection?
Symptoms of vaginal infections can be confused with conditions such as STDs, vulvar dermatitis, bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections, among others.
Why won’t my vaginal infection ever go away?
A vaginal infection can linger for several reasons, including an incorrect diagnosis, resistant strain of bacteria or yeast, or an underlying health condition. It is essential to avoid repeating treatments that are not working and to seek immediate medical attention.
Why does my BV keep coming back even after antibiotics?
Recurring bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be a common situation caused by antibiotics killing both harmful and beneficial bacteria without addressing underlying triggers or repairing your microbiome.
Treat Your Chronic Vaginal Infection in Phoenix, Arizona
If you’re tired of trying to guess what is causing your recurring symptoms, our team of gynecologists specializing in vulvovaginal diseases with over a decade of experience can help you with that. At Arizona Specialized Gynecology, we offer thorough evaluations, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans designed to break the cycle of your chronic vaginal infection for good. Schedule an appointment or reach out to our practice in Phoenix, Arizona, to take the first step toward lasting relief.