Vaginitis in adults and adolescents: Initial evaluation - UpToDate

Vaginitis is the general term for disorders of the vagina caused by infection, inflammation, or changes in the normal vaginal flora. Symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharge, odor, pruritus, and/or discomfort. The initial evaluation typically consists of a history, physical examination, and tests for specific infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Individuals whose initial evaluation confirms a diagnosis then receive targeted treatment. Those who remain without a diagnosis, or whose symptoms recur, then go through a more detailed evaluation process. This topic will discuss the approach to individuals who present with vaginal discharge from an unknown cause. Detailed reviews of specific causes of vaginitis are presented separately: ● (See "Candida vulvovaginitis: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis".) ● (See "Bacterial vaginosis: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis".) ● (See "Trichomoniasis: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis".) ● (See "Clinical manifest

Vaginitis is the general term for disorders of the vagina caused by infection, inflammation, or changes in the normal vaginal flora. Symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharge, odor, pruritus, and/or discomfort. The initial evaluation typically consists of a history, physical examination, and tests for specific infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Individuals whose initial evaluation confirms a diagnosis then receive targeted treatment. Those who remain without a diagnosis, or whose symptoms recur, then go through a more detailed evaluation process. This topic will di