What term is used for infections such as BV or yeast that can be caused by bacteria, yeasts, or viruses?

The term that refers to infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) or yeast infections, which can be caused by bacteria, yeasts, or viruses, is vaginitis. Vaginitis is an umbrella term that encompasses any inflammation of the vagina, which can lead to various symptoms such as irritation, itching, and abnormal discharge.

Bacterial vaginosis, for instance, is characterized by an imbalance of the normal bacterial flora in the vagina, often leading to an increase in harmful bacteria. Yeast infections are primarily caused by an overgrowth of Candida, which is a type of fungus. Viral infections, such as those caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) or herpes simplex virus (HSV), can also lead to vaginitis symptoms.

Cervicitis, urethritis, and pelvic inflammatory disease are related conditions but do not encompass the range of infections linked to vaginitis. Cervicitis refers specifically to inflammation of the cervix, urethritis pertains to inflammation of the urethra, and pelvic inflammatory disease typically denotes a broader infection affecting the reproductive organs and is often a complication stemming from other infections, including vaginitis. Therefore, the correct term for infections like BV or yeast that can arise from bacterial, yeast,