Vaginitis Clinic

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can cause discharge, itching, burning, odor, and pain. About one-third of women will have symptoms at some point in their life, but it is more common during childbearing years. Treatment varies depending on the cause, but it can be treated with oral medications or by applying a special cream or gel.

In many cases, vaginitis is caused by a change in the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. Other common causes are infection, lower estrogen levels after menopause, and some skin disorders. Things that can change the normal balance of the vagina include:

• Antibiotics
• Changes in hormones levels due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause
• Douching
• Spermicides 
• Sexual intercourse
• Sexually transmitted infections

The UAB Vaginitis Clinic diagnoses and treats women with a wide range of conditions and infections, including vaginitis. Located at UAB Hospital-Highlands in the fifth-floor Infectious Diseases Clinic, the clinic is staffed by highly experienced physicians who specialize in:

• Bacterial vaginosis (an infection of the vagina)
• Trichomoniasis (a common sexually transmitted infection)
• Vaginal yeast infections, including recurring and difficult-to-treat cases
• Other chronic vaginal conditions that are hard to manage

The clinic is part of the UAB Division of Infectious Diseases, a highly ranked program staffed by specialists who offer expert care in a compassionate, personal environment. The division operates many specialized clinics that combine treatment and research for infectious diseases such as osteomyelitis (inflammation/swelling in the bones), fungal infections, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection), and sexually transmitted infections.

To make an appointment with the UAB Vaginitis Clinic, please call 205-930-8310.

Care Providers

Christina Muzny, MD Infectious Diseases

Olivia Van Gerwen, MD Infectious Diseases

Resources

• Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Vaginal Discharge
• Vaginitis in Nonpregnant Patients

Related Specialties

• OBGYN Services
  Pap Smear
  Urinary Tract Infection