vulvovaginitis and cervicitis
Start with the big picture
The lesson organizes vaginitis around three common causes—Candida, bacterial vaginosis, and Trichomonas—and contrasts their typical clinical features and diagnostic clues. It then addresses cervicitis associated with Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, including when empiric treatment may be considered while testing is pending. Management coverage includes recommended therapies and alternatives, pregnancy-specific considerations, counseling about alcohol with nitroimidazoles, and non-pharmacologic measures. The topic also emphasizes treating partners when indicated, test-of-cure situations, and retesting to identify reinfection. Because mixed infections are possible, the approach includes consideration of STI co-testing in symptomatic patients.
What you'll learn
- Differentiate common causes of vaginitis using characteristic findings and vaginal pH.
- Describe treatment approaches for Candida, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis.
- Identify key considerations in evaluating and treating chlamydial and gonococcal cervicitis.
- Summarize partner management, follow-up testing, and important medication cautions.
- Recognize non-pharmacologic measures and pregnancy-related treatment considerations.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
