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Vaginitis FAQs What is noninfectious vaginitis?

By Tracee Cornforth, About.com

Updated June 22, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

What is noninfectious vaginitis?

Occasionally, a woman can have itching, burning, and even a vaginal discharge without having an infection. The most common cause is an allergic reaction or irritation from vaginal sprays, douches, or spermicidal products. The skin around the vagina can also be sensitive to perfumed soaps, detergents, and fabric softeners.

Another noninfectious form of vaginitis results from a decrease in hormones because of menopause or because of surgery that removes the ovaries. In this form, the vagina becomes dry or "atrophic." The woman may notice pain, especially with sexual intercourse, as well as vaginal itching and burning. Reprinted from the National Institute for Child Health & Human Development

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