Vaginal infections are an extremely common problem that many women face, regardless of whether they are young or even if they are post menopausal.
The vagina is one of the most sensitive and private areas of a woman. A vaginal infection can hence be quite a distressing experience for a woman, and they may feel embarrassed to seek treatment for this.
At Ezra Clinic, we provide a discreet and private environment to ensure our female patients feel safe to discuss their medical issues to get the best treatment possible.
Contents
- 1 Vaginal Infection Singapore
- 1.1 What Are Vaginal Infections?
- 1.2 What are the Causes of a Vaginal Infection?
- 1.3 What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Vaginal Infection?
- 1.4 Vaginal Infection Treatment Process at EzraClinic
- 1.5 How are Vaginal Infections Diagnosed?
- 1.6 How are Vaginal Infections Treated?
- 1.7 Cost of Vaginal Infection Treatment in Singapore
- 1.8 How to Reduce the Risk of Recurrence of Vaginal Infections?
- 1.9 Why Choose EzraClinic?
What Are Vaginal Infections?
A vaginal infection happens when the natural balance of bacteria and pH in the vagina is disrupted, or when bacteria, fungi, or parasites are introduced from outside. These conditions affect many women in Singapore at different stages of life, from adolescence to after menopause.
🔗 Want to learn more? See our full guide to vaginal infections in Singapore.
What are the Causes of a Vaginal Infection?
The vagina naturally has its own natural bacteria which live in it. This is present in all women, and is the normal bacteria that is found in our body. This is known as our bacteria flora.
The body also maintains a natural pH level to ensure a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Vaginal infections usually occur as a result of either or both of 2 main reasons.
A disruption in the natural pH and balance of the vaginal bacterial flora
Acquiring a bacterial or viral infection externally, usually from a sexual partner - this leads to sexually transmitted infections.
Examples of infections caused by disruption of the natural pH and balance of the vaginal bacteria include: Yeast Infections and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV).
Examples of Sexually Transmitted Infection are: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomonas, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Vaginal Infection?
Possible Signs and Symptoms Include:
- Yellowish or Greenish coloured discharge
- Abnormal Odour
- Copious amounts of Discharge
- Vaginal Itching
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Soreness or Burning around the Vagina
- Pain during Sexual Intercourse
- Bleeding or spotting after sexual intercourse
- Bleeding or spotting in between your periods
- No symptoms
It is possible that women who are having an active infection, particularly a sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia, may be completely asymptomatic and have no symptoms at all.
Symptoms such as pain, discomfort or abnormal bleeding are more worrying signs and warrants medical attention as soon as possible.
Vaginal Infection Treatment Process at EzraClinic
Diagnosing a vaginal infection cannot be done based on symptoms alone. While some conditions may show typical signs (for example, a “cottage cheese” discharge in yeast infections), these appearances are not reliable enough for an accurate diagnosis. Multiple infections can also occur at the same time, which makes testing essential.
At EzraClinic, the process usually includes:
- Consultation – our doctor will review your symptoms and medical history
- Examination – a gentle vaginal examination may be performed with a speculum
- Swab test – a sample is collected from the vagina or cervix
We recommend doing a vaginal swab test to have an accurate diagnosis of the type of vaginal infection, so that the correct treatment can be given in a timely manner.
- Laboratory analysis – the sample is analysed to identify the infection type
- Results and treatment plan – your doctor explains the findings and prescribes a tailored treatment
All consultations are conducted privately by our female doctor in a safe and discreet environment.
A Note From Our Doctor
Doctor Michelle has more than 10 years of experience treating women with vaginal infection issues, particularly specialising in women with recurrent long-standing vaginal infection symptoms.
“On several occasions, many women who have been suffering from vaginal infections were dismissed as just a simple yeast infection, only to find out after a proper swab test that there were other bacterial infections or even sexually transmitted infections that were left untreated.
It is important to understand that vaginal infections all present with very similar symptoms, and so it is always recommended to see an experienced doctor for accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.”
How are Vaginal Infections Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a vaginal infection alone just based on signs and symptoms, or the appearance of the discharge is usually inadequate.
While certain types of infections may have a more characteristic appearance to the discharge such as the cottage cheese appearance of a vaginal yeast infection, this cannot be used to make an accurate diagnosis.
This is because multiple infections usually occur at the same time, and making an assumption without testing can lead to a chance of an underlying serious infection being undiagnosed which could lead to more serious consequences later on.
We recommend doing a vaginal swab test to have an accurate diagnosis of the type of vaginal infection, so that the correct treatment can be given in a timely manner.
The doctor usually performs a vaginal examination with a speculum to examine the presence of the abnormal discharge. A swab is then inserted to gently obtain a sample of the discharge around the cervix and vagina to be sent for further testing.
How are Vaginal Infections Treated?
Once the infection type is identified through testing, your doctor will prescribe one of the following treatment approaches:
- Bacterial infections (e.g. bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, gonorrhoea): antibiotics or vaginal pessaries
- Fungal infections (e.g. yeast infections): antifungal medication, oral or topical
- Parasitic infections (e.g. trichomoniasis): anti-parasitic medication
- Viral infections (e.g. herpes): antiviral medication to manage outbreaks
- Partner treatment may be advised in cases of sexually transmitted infections
Most vaginal infections improve quickly once the correct treatment is started.
Avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter products, as incorrect treatment can lead to recurrence or complications.
What Happens if You Are Diagnosed With a Sexually Transmitted Infection?
If your swab test shows a sexually transmitted infection (STI), treatment will depend on the type of infection:
- Some STIs can be treated with a single injection at the clinic
- Others may require a full course of oral antibiotics
- In some cases, partner testing and treatment will also be recommended to prevent reinfection
Most STIs in the vagina are treatable, especially when diagnosed early. However, some infections such as chlamydia may remain silent for years without noticeable symptoms. If left untreated, they can spread upwards to the womb and fallopian tubes, leading to scarring, pelvic inflammatory disease, and even fertility problems.
If you suspect you may have an STI, early consultation helps protect both your health and your partner’s health.
Cost of Vaginal Infection Treatment in Singapore
The cost of treating a vaginal infection in Singapore depends on several factors, including:
- Type of infection – yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, or mixed infections may require different treatments
- Diagnostic tests required – such as swab tests or additional screenings for STIs
- Medication prescribed – antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, or combination therapy
- Consultation and follow-up needs – complexity of the case and whether repeat testing is required
- Doctor’s expertise – treatment plans are tailored according to the patient’s condition and medical history
While costs vary, timely consultation and accurate diagnosis can help you avoid repeat visits or complications that may require more extensive treatment later on.
How to Reduce the Risk of Recurrence of Vaginal Infections?
Common infections such as Yeast Infection or Bacterial Vaginosis commonly recur.
Sexually transmitted infections can also linger if not treated properly.
It is important to modify your feminine health habits to prevent and reduce the risk of recurrence of vaginal infections.
Some tips include:
- Avoid vaginal douche
- Avoid scented panty liners
- Avoid tight fitting underwear
- Avoid overwashing with feminine wash
- Engage in protected intercourse
Why Choose EzraClinic?
EzraClinic provides discreet and supportive care for women experiencing vaginal infections. Consultations are led by Dr Michelle Chia, a female doctor with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing these conditions. She has cared for many women with different types of vaginal infections and tailors each treatment to their individual needs.
Speak to us to arrange a consultation now!
AUTHOR
Dr Michelle Chia
Medical Director
After graduating from the National University of Singapore, Dr Michelle's journey allowed her to train in Women's Health and Aesthetic Medicine. Her experience has led her to be featured on multiple media platforms including Radio Stations and prominent Magazines like Her World, Women's Weekly and CLEO. Her work has also received recognition both locally and internationally in several Medical Conferences.
Ezra Clinic is a Women’s Health, Wellness and Aesthetic Clinic that is conveniently located at the top floor of Royal Square Medical Suites in Novena, Singapore’s Medical Health Hub.
Helmed by Dr Michelle Chia, Ezra Clinic is your chosen one stop clinic for all your Women’s Health and Wellness needs.
Address
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-09, Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565
