Other STIs and Genital Conditions

Yeast vaginosis 2

The clinical picture of yeast vaginitis is variable. The most common symptom is acute vulvar pruritis. Vaginal discharge, which is often described as cottage cheese-like, may or may not be present. Other possible symptoms include external dysuria, introital dyspareunia, vulvar soreness and vaginal irritation.

On examination erythema and edema of the vulva are often seen. The vagina and introitus may also be erythematous with an adherent white, clumpy discharge.

A suspected diagnosis of yeast vaginitis should be confirmed with a microscopic evaluation of vaginal fluids. A wet mount will reveal yeast cells and mycelia with no clue cells (which indicate bacterial vaginosis) or motile trichomonads (indicative of trichomoniasis).

photo reproduced with the permission of Dr. Marc Steben