Trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and candida vaginitis (also known as yeast infection) are three distinct types of vaginal infections. Here’s a brief overview of each:

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Symptoms may include:

• Yellow-green or gray vaginal discharge with an unpleasant smell
• Itching, burning, or redness in the vagina or vulva
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Painful urination

Bacterial vaginosis is a bacterial infection caused by an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. Symptoms may include:

• Thin, white or gray vaginal discharge with a fishy smell
• Itching or burning sensation in the vagina
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

Candida vaginitis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. Symptoms may include:

• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge
• Itching, burning, or redness in the vagina or vulva
• Painful urination
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, as each condition requires different medications and approaches.

Here’s a brief overview of the microscopy and treatment for each of the three conditions:

Trichomoniasis

Microscopy

• Wet mount microscopy: Motile, flagellated trophozoites of Trichomonas vaginalis can be seen.
• Giemsa or Pap stain: Trophozoites can be visualized with characteristic intracytoplasmic granules.

Treatment

• Metronidazole (Flagyl) 2g orally in a single dose or 500mg twice a day for 7 days.
• Tinidazole (Tindamax) 2g orally in a single dose.
• Sexual partners should also be treated.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Microscopy

• Wet mount microscopy: Clue cells (epithelial cells coated with bacteria) can be seen.
• Gram stain: Predominance of Gram-variable bacteria and absence of lactobacilli.

Treatment

• Metronidazole (Flagyl) 500mg twice a day for 7 days.
• Metronidazole (Flagyl) 750mg extended-release tablets once a day for 7 days.
• Clindamycin (Cleocin) 300mg twice a day for 7 days.

Candida Vaginitis (Yeast Infection)

Microscopy

• Wet mount microscopy: Budding yeast cells and pseudohyphae can be seen.
• KOH (potassium hydroxide) preparation: Fungal elements can be visualized.

Treatment

• Fluconazole (Diflucan) 150mg orally in a single dose.
• Itraconazole (Sporanox) 200mg orally for 3 days.
• Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin) or miconazole (Monistat) vaginal creams or suppositories for 3-7 days.