Patient's question:
Doctor, I recently got married, and my wife said her vagina often itches and feels uncomfortable. She suspects she might have a vaginal infection, and after some research, she found it could be either candidiasis or trichomoniasis. I want to understand the differences between the two, as I know very little about this.Doctor's answer:
The difference between fungal and trichomoniasis vaginitis is quite significant. Trichomoniasis vaginitis is caused by Trichomonas vaginalis and may present with frothy discharge, and leukorrhea is often yellowish-green. It may also lead to urethritis and other conditions. On the other hand, fungal vaginitis is triggered by Candida infection, characterized by severe vaginal itching. The patient's leukorrhea typically appears as cottage cheese-like discharge, and the vaginal mucosa may also be red and swollen. The perineum is often itchy. If there is an increase in leukorrhea or an odor, it is still recommended to undergo a routine leukorrhea examination at the hospital. After confirmation, symptomatic treatment should be administered under the guidance of a doctor. Pay attention to hygiene in the perineal area, change underwear frequently, and wash the external genitalia regularly. Maintain a light diet.