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2026, Number 2

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Rev Fac Med UNAM 2026; 69 (2)

Common Vulvovaginal Infections in Primary Care: Bacterial Vaginosis, Candidiasis, and Trichomoniasis

Sánchez-Vega JT, Morales-Galicia AE, Sánchez-Suir DK, Sánchez-Aguilar JH, González-Vences JE, González-Aguirre D, Hernández-Larrainzar MA, de Villa-Hidalgo MG, Vega-Zavala AO, Figueroa-Fernández LA, Rincón-Sánchez MN, Ortiz-Pinzón BY, Vázquez-Cervantes AG

Language: Spanish
References: 49
Page: 8-22
PDF size: 366.10 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Vaginal infections are among the most prevalent conditions affecting women of all ages, particularly those of reproductive age and pregnant women. As a result, they constitute one of the most common reasons for gynecological consultations in primary care. This article reviews the main infectious etiologies— Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida spp., and Trichomonas vaginalis—addressing their microbiological characteristics, epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, complications, and treatment. Bacterial vaginosis, primarily caused by G. vaginalis, represents a disruption of the vaginal microbiota, whereas vulvovaginal candidiasis and trichomoniasis result from fungal and protozoal infections, respectively. Given the similarities in clinical presentation, this review highlights the importance of a thorough evaluation to differentiate between these etiologies. It also discusses updated therapeutic recommendations, including the most effective treatment regimens. Furthermore, the potential complications in both pregnant and non-pregnant women are analyzed, emphasizing the need for appropriate management to minimize the impact on reproductive health. This review aims to provide general practitioners with a comprehensive and up-to-date guide for the diagnosis and management of vaginal infections, ultimately improving the quality of medical care and patient outcomes.


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