Vaginal Infections Singapore: Causes, Types, and Treatments

Vaginal Infections in Singapore: Causes, Types, and Treatments

Vaginal infections are common health concerns for women in Singapore, affecting comfort and reproductive health. Whether caused by bacteria, fungi, or irritants, these infections require proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

If you’re experiencing discomfort, abnormal discharge, or itching, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly. In this guide, we’ll explore the types of vaginal infections, treatment options in Singapore, and practical prevention tips to maintain optimal vaginal health.

If you are a woman who is sexually active and has plans of getting pregnant somewhere down the line, it is important to keep your vagina free from infections and the reproductive system healthy. Vaginal infections are not only caused by sexual contact, but also by using certain medications, contraceptives, douching products, hygiene products, tampons, and even laundry detergents. There are numerous treatments available in Singapore to treat vaginal infections. Read more about the topic in this article.

Types of Vaginal Infections

Getting a vaginal infection can make you feel pain and uncomfortable. There are different types of vaginal infections depending on the symptoms you are experiencing. These are:

Bacterial infections
Viral Infections
Non-infectious vaginitis
Trichomoniasis
Yeast infections

The table below provides more information about each type of infection.

Type of Infection	Example	Description	Causes and risks	Symptoms
Bacterial infection	Bacterial vaginosis	This infection happens when bad bacteria in the vagina begin to multiply causing an imbalance and inflammation.	• Douching • Lack of Lactobacilli (good bacteria) in the vagina • Having multiple sex partners • Having a new partner • Unprotected sex	• Burning feeling when urinating • Pain during sex • Thin vaginal discharge that may be grey, green, or white • Vaginal itching • Vaginal odor that smells fishy and foul
	Chlamydia	This is an infection from a bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis that is transmitted during sexual intercourse. It can affect both men and women. Chlamydia can spread to the fallopian tubes, which can cause another condition called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID	• Unprotected sex	• Bleeding in between menstrual periods • Burning feeling when urinating • Cervicitis or inflammation of the cervix • Pain during sex • Pain in the lower part of the abdomen • Vaginal discharge that is green, white, or yellow
	Gonorrhea	This is a vaginal infection caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. When left untreated, the infection could cause chronic health problems. Gonorrhoea may be asymptomatic and can affect other parts of the body, such as the eyes, mouth, and throat.	• Unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex.	Gonorrhoea of the eye or gonococcal conjunctivitis: • Eye irritation or pain • Eye inflammation, redness, and tenderness • Eyelid swelling • Mucus discharge from the eye that may be stringy and white or yellow Oral gonorrhea: • a persistent sore throat • Fever • Lymph node inflammation in the neck • Throat inflammation Vaginal gonorrhea: • Bleeding in between menstrual periods • Bleeding or abnormal discharges from the rectum • Burning or pain when urinating • Having an urge to urinate more often • Itching or feeling sore in the anus • Menstrual periods that are heavier than usual • Pain during sex • Pain during bowel movement • Sharp pain in the lower abdomen
Viral infection	Genital Herpes	This infection occurs when a person has herpes simplex virus (HSV) and the virus spreads into the genital area. Genital herpes has no known cure, but the symptoms can be managed.	Two types of HSV can cause genital herpes: • HSV-1 • HSV-2 Both types of HSV can enter through any opening in the body and are usually transmitted in bodily fluids such as: • Saliva • Secretions from the vagina • Semen Genital herpes can be transmitted through unprotected and oral sex.	• Body aches • Fever • Headache • Open sores • Presence of blisters around or near the anus, buttocks, or vagina • Swollen lymph nodes
Viral infection	Genital warts	This infection is characterized by abnormal fleshy growths around the anus or genitals. They are usually caused by the HPV virus, which is transmitted through sexual activities. Genital warts have no known cure, but the symptoms can be managed	• Smoking • Unprotected sex	• Bleeding in the genital area • Discoloration of skin • Discomfort • Itching
Non-infectious vaginitis	n/a	This infection is usually caused by factors that lead to vaginal allergies and irritations.	• Douching • Fragrant bubble baths or soaps • Latex condoms • Lubricants • Intimate hygiene products • Sanitary pads or tampons • Sperm • Spermicides • Tight-fitting lingerie or underwear	• Burning and stinging in the vulva • Irritation and inflammation in the vagina or vulva • Vaginal and vulva flushing
Trichomoniasis	n/a	This infection is also known as trich and occurs when a protozoan parasite, called Trichomonas vaginalis, spreads in the genital area. This infection is acquired through sexual contact.	• Genital touching • Unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal sex.	• Bleeding in the genital area • Discharges from the vagina that smells foul • Discomfort when urinating or having sex • Inflammation in the groin area • Irritation in the vagina • Pain in the lower abdomen, although rare • Vaginal discharge that is frothy and may be clear, grey, green, or yellow • Urinating frequently
Yeast infections	n/a	This infection is usually caused by Candida, a fungus that spreads and infects the vagina’s mucosal lining, resulting in inflammation.	• Diabetes that is not managed well • Pregnancy • Using antibiotics or corticosteroids • Using contraceptives • Weak immune system	• Burning and stinging in the vulva • Irritation and inflammation in the vagina or vulva • Pain in the vagina when urinating or during sex • Rash • Watery discharges

How Are Vaginal Infections Diagnosed?

Vaginal infections are diagnosed by undergoing a vaginal swab. The specimen collected by your doctor is sent to a laboratory for tests. The tests that are done to the swabs can be any of the following:

Cultures, for yeast infections
DNA technologies, for bacterial infections
Gram stain, for bacterial vaginosis (BV)
Wet prep

Treatment Options for Vaginal Infections in Singapore

The options for vaginal infection treatments available in Singapore are:

Creams
Oral medications
Pessaries

How to Prevent Vaginal Infections

There are multiple ways that you can practice to avoid getting vaginal infections. Here are some tips:

Avoid douching
Avoid things that can trigger known allergies, such as latex
Avoid wearing clothing that is damp or tight
Changing underwear daily
Use intimate and sanitary products that are gentle and unscented
Washing and disinfecting reusable sanitary products and sex toys by following instructions correctly
Wear cotton underwear
When urinating, wipe from the front going back, so as not to get bacteria or germs from the anus to spread into the vagina

Maintaining proper intimate hygiene is essential, and understanding the best products for vaginal health can play a crucial role in preventing infections and promoting overall well-being.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the following symptoms, consult a healthcare provider immediately:

Persistent itching or burning.
Abnormal or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
Pain during urination or sexual intercourse.
Unexplained bleeding between periods.

Early intervention ensures faster recovery and prevents further complications.

Conclusion

Vaginal infections are a common but treatable issue for women in Singapore. By understanding the causes, types, and available treatments, you can take proactive steps to protect your intimate health. Prioritize good hygiene practices and seek medical advice if symptoms arise.

If you’re concerned about vaginal health or need professional care, book a consultation with a certified clinic.