Title: The 3 Most Common Vaginal Problems
Headings: The 3 Most Common Vaginal Problems
The 3 Most Common Vaginal Problems
Recognizing Yeast Infections, Trichomoniasis, and Bacterial Vaginosis
Yeast Infections
Trichomoniasis
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Prevention
A Word From Verywell

Content: The 3 Most Common Vaginal Problems
Sexual Health
Reproductive Health Issues
Vaginal Health
The 3 Most Common Vaginal Problems
Recognizing Yeast Infections, Trichomoniasis, and Bacterial Vaginosis
By
Tracee Cornforth
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Tracee Cornforth is a freelance writer who covers menstruation, menstrual disorders, and other women's health issues. Learn about our editorial process
Tracee Cornforth
Medically reviewed by
Medically reviewed by Monique Rainford, MD on November 22, 2020
Monique Rainford, MD, is the chief of obstetrics and gynecology at Yale Health. Learn about our Medical Review Board
Monique Rainford, MD
on November 22, 2020
Whether it's persistent itching, an abnormal discharge, or irritation, when things aren't right in your vaginal area, you know it. If you have a vagina, you are likely to experience vaginal problems at some point in your life. The three most common issues that occur are yeast infections, trichomoniasis, and bacterial vaginosis. While these concerns do have some similar symptoms, their causes are completely different. The treatment for each is different too, so knowing exactly which one you have is crucial to getting rid of the infection quickly and effectively, and avoiding potential complications. IMAGEMORE Co, Ltd. / Getty Images
Yeast Infections
A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus called Candida. It normally lives inside the body (in places such as the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina) and on the skin in small amounts without causing any problems. However, some factors—such as antibiotics, pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, or a weakened immune system (even if just from stress)—can upset the balance of bacteria in the vagina, causing yeast to multiply.