Assessment and management of vaginitis and cervicitis

This article presents the assessment, management, client education, and psychosocial considerations related to trichomoniasis, candidiasis, Gardnerella vaginitis, and cervicitis due to Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhea. The physiology of the vagina, approach to the history and physical exam, specimen collection, and laboratory diagnosis are included. Recommended treatment regimens and preventive behaviors are discussed in detail. The psychosocial impact to the client of having a discharge which may be a sexually transmitted disease is discussed.