Vaginitis is the inflammation of vagina that is primarily due to a fungal infection.  It is a very common condition, especially in women who have diabetes.  A woman with Vaginitis typically has discharge, itching, burning, and discomfort.  Although it can be uncomfortable, it isn't the end of the world and can be remedied.  The most common types of Vaginitis are:

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV): resulting from an overgrowth of one of the organisms in the vagina.
• Yeast Infections: usually due to a naturally occuring fungus called Candida albicans. 
• Trichomoniasis: caused by a parasite that is usually contracted during sexual intercourse.
• Vaginal Atrophy: can occur when estrogen levels drop after Menopause.

The typical symptoms one experiences with Vaginitis is itching, burning, and discharge.  Symptoms will vary depending on the type of Vaginitis one experiences.  Common symptoms include:

• Vaginal Discharge (usually gray with a fishy smell that is common for women with BV)
• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Pain during intercourse
• Painful urination
• Light vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Physical discomfort (more common with Yeast Infections)
• Irritation or redness of the vulva (particular for Yeast Infections)
• Greenish or frothy discharge (particular to Trichomoniasis)

A healthy vagina has a balance of good and bad bacteria.  Good bacteria keep the vagina slightly acidic to prevent bad bacteria from growing too quickly.  If the balance between good and bad bacteria is disrupted, the bad bacteria will start to grow too fast and cause infections.  These infection-causing bacteria can sometimes spread through sexual intercourse. There are other causes that can upset the balance of the vagina as well.  The different types of Vaginitis can have varying causes.  Consider the following causes for the different types of Vaginitis.

• Sexual intercourse
• Medications (antibiotics)
• Excessive douching
• Tight pants
• Poor diet
• Damp underwear
• Vaginal Products (birth control devices, lubricants, or sprays)
• Pregnancy
• Menopause (or the decline of estrogen levels)
• Puberty (the body's changes can create a hormone imbalance)

• Apple cider vinegar can be an effective remedy to reduce symptoms of BV.  Because a common cause of Vaginitis is a change in the pH balance of the vagina, the acidity of apple cider vinegar can help regulate the pH level and restore balance in the body.  Apple cider vinegar also helps to kill the bad bacteria, which helps restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina.  You can dilute a couple tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a bath and soak in it for 15-20 minutes.  Depending on sensitivity, you may need to alter the dilution or avoid this remedy altogether.  Consulting with a gynecologist can be beneficial in regards to this.
• Garlic has incredible antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat Vaginitis. You can eat raw garlic, juice or blend it in a smoothie, or wrap an unpeeled garlic clove in gauze and stick it in your vagina.  If you opt for the latter option, be sure to only leave the garlic clove in the vagina for 30 minutes, and no more than once a day.  
• Fenugreek seeds can be very helpful in restoring the vagina's pH balance and boosting the immune system. The best way to help yourself is by steeping 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in 1 cup of hot water.  Let them steep for 5 minutes before straining the tea.  You can add 1 teaspoon of raw, organic honey to add a little flavor. 
• Tea tree oil can be a great way to remedy the symptoms of Vaginitis.  The oil contains anti-viral and anti-fungal properties that can help kill bacteria and combat the smell, which is common for women with BV.  Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a small bowl of warm water, mix up the solution, and gently rinse your vagina once daily until symptoms subside.  If you don't want to do that, you can add 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to a lukewarm bath.  Soak in it for 15-20 minutes to help with symptoms. 

• Parsley
• Ginger
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Dark Leafy Greens (spinach, kale, & chard)
• Turmeric
• Garlic
• Okra
• Fenugreek Seeds
• Bananas
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Brussels Sprouts
• Berries
• Tomatoes
• Cherries
• Oranges
• Grapefruit