All women have experienced the discomfort of vaginal infections at some point of their lives and some of them experience it more often than others. Although women tend to be anxious about any symptoms that may arise down South, the vagina is a remarkable organ. By and large it manages to remain healthy and disease free despite its proximity to the urethra and the anus. Certain amount of discharge from the vagina is normal in all women and it is generally noticeable at the middle of the menstrual cycle, which is close to the time of ovulation. Sexual excitement and emotional stress are both associated with a vaginal discharge that is clear, mucus-like but if it is accompanied by redness, swelling, odor or itching, it is surely an infection.
The common infections that most of the women have are Yeast infection, or Candida vaginitis. Yeast infections are typically caused by an overgrowth of fungi in the vagina that is otherwise kept under control by normally growing bacteria in the body. Symptoms can range from minimal discharge, odor or irritation, to a thick, whitish-gray cheese like secretion and intense itching in the genitals. One also experience painful urination and intercourse and if these symptoms are there, one should immediately visit the gynecologists.
The causes of the Vaginitis could be any of the following events:
1. Excessive use of antibiotics destroys protective bacteria present in the vaginal area.
2. Diabetes and pregnancy as both conditions make the vagina prone to fungal growth as they raise sugar levels in the area and thereby increase the risk of yeast infection.
3. Birth control pills containing high doses of estrogen create a favorable environment for the fungus to grow.
4. Topical hormone preparations and douches can have a similar effect.
5. Too tight or synthetic underwear.
6. STDs: An infection in other parts of the urine genital system, such as gonorrhea this is rare, Chlamydia or herpes, may also act as triggers.
7. Menopause: A drop in estrogen levels causes the vagina to turn mildly alkaline. Under these circumstances the bacteria can thrive and occasionally make the vagina rather sore and uncomfortable — a condition called atrophic vaginitis.
8. Stress.
9. Allergies.
10. Change in sexual partners may trigger vaginal infections.
Vaginal infections are easily diagnosed. Often, just clinical presentation and pelvic examination is enough to conclude which type of infection it is. If your vaginal discharge is blood-stained or actually consists of blood, see a doctor without delay. This may signal the presence of a polyp, which could turn malignant if left untreated.
Treatment depends on the severity of infection. It may be in the form of local antifungal cream or gel or vaginal peccary. Oral tablets are also given if needed. The import thing is not to stop the medication midway even if the symptoms disappear. To prevent reinfection, which can happen during intercourse, it would be best if both partners take treatment simultaneously.
Vaginal infections can be prevented if one keeps the area dry, especially after a shower. Wipe from front to rear after using the toilet. Switch to loose-fitting cotton underwear and change twice a day during summer. Use condoms to prevent reinfection and limit sex partners.