How Do I Prevent Vaginitis & Yeast Infections?

Avoiding things that can change the natural balance of your vagina or cause irritation is the best way to keep your vagina healthy.

How can I avoid getting vaginitis?

Everyone’s body is different, so the things that lead to vaginitis for some people don’t always cause problems for others. But in general, anything that changes the chemical balance in your vagina can lead to vaginitis.

Allergic reactions or sensitivity to different products, materials, or activities can also cause vaginitis. Here are a few ways to keep your vulva and vagina healthy:

• Don’t use scented tampons and pads, vaginal deodorants, and perfumed “feminine hygiene” products. (If you’re worried about the way your vagina smells, your doctor can let you know if it’s normal or not).

• Stop using any perfumed bath products (like soap or bubble bath), laundry products, and scented or colored toilet paper if they irritate your skin.

• Don’t douche — douching washes away the good, healthy stuff in your vagina and throws off your vagina’s natural balance. And if you already have an infection, douching can make it worse. Vaginas are self-cleaning, so you don’t need to clean the inside of your vagina. Washing your vulva with mild, unscented soap or just plain water is the healthiest way to clean your genitals. Vaginitis has nothing to do with how clean you are, so bathing or douching won’t cure vaginitis.

• Vaginitis develops more quickly when your vulva is moist, so keep your genital area as dry as possible. Don’t sit around in a wet bathing suit or damp clothes, and don’t wear pants that are uncomfortably tight.

• Rinse your vulva with mild soap and water when you shower, and dry after. Wear cotton or cotton-crotch underwear — they breathe better and can help keep your vulva dry. And change your underwear daily.

• Change your tampons and pads every 4-8 hrs. Wash menstrual cups and sex toys carefully according to their instructions.

• If germs from your anus get into your vagina, they can cause an infection. Wipe carefully after pooping to avoid spreading germs to your vulva. If a finger, sex toy, or penis goes into your butt, wash it carefully before it touches your vagina (or use a new condom over it).

• Certain types of lubricants and spermicide may cause irritation for some people — stop using them or try a different brand if you have a reaction. If you’re allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane, polyisoprene, or nitrile condoms (they’re made from soft plastics and are latex-free).

• Get to know your genitals. Look at your vulva with a mirror, and pay attention to your regular smells and vaginal discharge. It’s normal for discharge to change a little bit throughout your menstrual cycle. But knowing your body well is the best way to tell if something’s wrong, so you can get treatment as soon as possible if you need it.

Can you get vaginitis from having sex?

Most of the time vaginitis isn’t spread through sex. But sometimes vaginitis is caused by a sexually transmitted infection — trich is a very common STD that’s passed easily during sexual contact and often causes vaginitis.

Bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections aren’t sexually transmitted. But sometimes your body chemistry can have a bad reaction to another person’s semen or natural genital yeast and bacteria, which can mess up the normal balance in your vagina. And studies have shown that having sex with a new partner, or multiple partners, may make you more likely to get BV.  

Sex can also lead to vaginitis if you have an allergy or sensitivity to certain types of lubes, condoms, or sex toy materials. (If you’re allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane, polyisoprene, or nitrile condoms.) And lots of friction or roughness during vaginal sex may cause inflammation and discomfort if the lining of your vagina gets irritated.

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What Is Vaginal Douching? Pros & Cons of Douching

An estimated 20% to 40% of American women between ages 15 and 44 say they use a vaginal douche. Higher rates are seen in teens and African-American and Hispanic women. Besides making themselves feel fresher, women say they douche to get rid of unpleasant odors, wash away menstrual blood after their period, avoid getting sexually transmitted diseases, and prevent a pregnancy after intercourse.

Yet, health experts say douching is not effective for any of these purposes. They also warn that it can actually increase the risk of infections, pregnancy complications, and other health problems.

What Is Douching?

The word ”douche” is French for ”wash” or ”soak.” It is a method to wash out the vagina, usually with a mixture of water and vinegar. Douches that are sold in drugstores and supermarkets contain antiseptics and fragrances. A douche comes in a bottle or bag and is sprayed through a tube upward into the vagina.

Advantages

Some women say douching makes them feel cleaner. There is, though, very little scientific evidence of benefit from douching.

Disadvantages

Overall, the risks of douching far outweigh the benefits.

Vaginal infections(bacterial vaginosis). Douching upsets the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina (called vaginal flora). These changes make the environment more favorable for the growth of bacteria that cause infection. Studies have found that women who stopped douching were less likely to have bacterial vaginosis. Having bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of preterm labor and sexually transmitted infections.

Pelvic inflammatory disease(PID). PID is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries. Research has found that women who douche may have a 73% higher risk of getting PID.

Pregnancy complications. Women who douche more than once a week have more difficulty getting pregnant than those who don’t douche. Douching may also increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy by as much as 76%. With an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo implants outside the uterus. The more a woman douches, the greater the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy.

Cervical cancer. Douching at least once a week has been linked to a possible increased chance of developing cervical cancer.

Should You Douche?

According to health experts, including those at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), you should avoid douching. Having some vaginal odor is normal. However, if you notice a very strong odor, it could be a sign of infection. The acidity of the vagina will naturally control bacteria, and simply washing the vulva externally with warm water and mild soap is enough to keep clean.

Feminine Odor Problems? What Every Woman Needs to Know – Cleveland Clinic

You’ve probably seen scented feminine products in the aisles of your local drug store and wondered if your particular fragrance “down there” is OK? If you’re feeling self conscious about your odor, does that mean your vagina is in need of some freshening? Many women claim that douching makes them feel cleaner, eliminates embarrassing odor and protects them against infection. But they may be doing harm to themselves along the way.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

“Douching is not advised because the vagina is a self-cleaning organ,” says nurse practitioner Molly Gumucio, CNP. “When you try to cleanse it yourself by using a douche, you actually flush out the normal, healthy microbes as well as temporarily change the pH, which changes the acidic vs. basic nature of the vagina.”

Additionally, all douche formulations — save for the pure saline varieties — contain ingredients that could trigger an adverse or allergic reaction.

The term, douche, which means “to wash” or “to shower” in French, refers to cleansing the vagina using a solution of water mixed with another fluid — often vinegar, baking soda or some sort of perfume.

Rather than providing protection, douching sets up an environment that makes it easier for infections to develop. Douching can also lead to health problems like pelvic inflammatory disease and vaginal irritation too. Additionally, all douche formulations — except for the pure saline varieties — contain ingredients that could trigger an adverse or allergic reaction. Ouch! 

The odor dilemma

“Vaginal odor can be a big concern for some, but it’s actually normal to have some odor,” Gumucio says. “It’s also normal to have the odor change in nature and intensity throughout your menstrual cycle. ”

It’s possible to notice more odor after making a change in diet, such as eating more garlic, tuna or if you just started to take dietary supplements. Once you stop consuming the food or other products, the odor usually goes away.

Washing the outside area — the vulva — with deodorant soap can decrease the natural odor, but it may also dry out the sensitive tissue, so use those products with caution. Wash your vulva only with water, especially if you’re experiencing dryness, itching or burning.

How to tell when an odor represents a red flag

Some odors may occur due to a health issue. “If you smell a persistent and foul odor, or if any odor is accompanied by a thick or greenish discharge, you may have an infection,” says Gumucio. “If you have pain, rawness or sores in your vaginal area, it’s time to consult your doctor.”

These odors and accompanying symptoms can arise due to a serious infection like gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, or chlamydia.

But, most commonly, the cause isn’t an infection at all.

Bacterial vaginosis, an imbalance of the various kinds of bacteria found in the vagina, can cause discomfort and odor as well. If you have this problem, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic, which selectively affects only the anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that live without oxygen) and leaves the healthy bacteria intact. 

Yeast vaginitis is what most people refer to as a yeast infection, but really occurs because of a bacterial imbalance that allows the yeast to flourish. Your doctor will prescribe one of several medications to treat the abundance of yeast and put the natural balance back in place.

Foreign objects like a tampon, condom or toilet paper can sometimes get stuck in your vagina and cause odor or discharge. To remove it on your own, relax your pelvic muscles and try to gently grasp the object. If you don’t have luck removing it on your own, don’t panic. A healthcare provider will be able to remove it for you.

“If you’re young and haven’t started your periods, yet have an odor, consult with your doctor first before attempting to treat it with an over-the-counter remedy,” Gumucio says. 

Lack of estrogen can be the cause if you’re past menopause and are experiencing vaginal odor. Your doctor will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis and discuss treatment options.​​

The big takeaway

Your vagina cleans itself, so avoid using a douche, which may actually harm vaginal health. See your Ob/Gyn annually for your well-woman visit and in between visits if you have any pressing concerns.

Suspect vaginal yeast infection? Try these 5 effective home remedies

We agree, ladies. A vaginal yeast infection can be super annoying. If it’s all itchy-itchy down there, bring to your rescue these home remedies.

Lack of sleep, stress, weak immune system, diabetes, hormonal imbalances and greater indulgence in unhealthy eating habits are some of the prime reasons that lead to adverse effects on the health of the vagina. This then results in the higher chances of you developing an yeast infection.

Vaginal yeast infection is usually very itchy accompanied with a white discharge, redness, pain, soreness, burning sensations and inflammation.

While it is best to consult a doctor and get yourself treated, we spoke to Dr Rita Bakshi, the senior gynaecologist and IVF expert at International Fertility Centre for some things you can do to relieve the pain.

Use baking soda as hygiene wash
Baking soda helps in naturally balancing out the pH levels of your vagina. Its acidic nature helps in killing candida cells that lead to genital yeast infection. This natural vaginal wash helps in speeding up the recovery process with its natural properties.

Add two tablespoons of baking soda to your bathwater. Swish it around to make sure it dissolves. Spend 10-15 minutes in the bathtub or take a mugful of that water to rinse your vaginal area.

Also read: Scared of using a vaginal wash? Try these home hacks for a healthy vulva

Use cold water compress
To deal with the soreness, itching and burning sensations during an yeast infection, place a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a towel on your vagina.

A cold compress can help you deal with vaginal yeast infections. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Do not douche
Douching – the act of washing the vagina with water or a mixture of fluids to eliminate odours and clean the vagina – eliminates some of the healthy bacteria and microorganisms from the vagina. These are necessary as they guard the vagina against yeast infection.

Douching is one of the reasons for the multiplication of harmful bacteria in the body. So avoid douching, both when you have a yeast infection, and otherwise.

Avoid using artificially scented soaps and intimate products
Feminine hygiene and bath products that are artificially scented are a complete no-no when you have an infection. These chemically based products do not have the correct pH-balance and end up doing more harm than good.

Trust us, using water to keep your vagina clean is more than enough; you don’t need to smell like vanilla down there!

Also read: 4 reasons why you’ve got to stop using scented sanitary pads. P.S. Your vagina will thank you for it

Maintain the pH level of your vagina with home-made vaginal wash.
Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Always go for breathable fabrics
When it comes to picking your panties, ditch the synthetic ones and always opt for breathable fabrics like cotton. Yeast increases in a moist and warm environment, which can be prevented by wearing a cotton panty.

Follow these five home remedies for vaginal yeast infection and relieve the pain, before your appointment with the gynae.

Douching: Why OB/GYNs Say Women Shouldn’t Do It

What Health Risks Can Douching Cause?

Once a recommended medical practice, vaginal douching is now known to upset the natural pH of the vagina. The vagina naturally maintains an acidic environment with a pH level of 3.5 to 4.5. This acidic environment is favorable to the healthy bacteria that naturally grow in the vagina, and unfavorable to harmful bacteria that might try to move in.

Douching with vaginal wipes, soaps, and perfumes raises the pH level of the vagina. An elevated pH means that the healthy flora of the vagina may struggle to survive, while harmful bacteria begin to thrive.

This elevated pH level caused by vaginal douching can cause immediate health problems for a woman, including:

• Vaginal Dryness: Douching may remove or alter the natural mucous of the vaginal walls.
• Bacterial Vaginosis: A painful inflammation of the vaginal tissue, bacterial vaginosis occurs when harmful bacteria flourish in the vagina, which is more likely if the natural, healthy bacteria are washed away with douching.
• Yeast Infections: Yeast grows better in less acidic environments.

Douching can also put women at risk for longer-term health problems. In fact, the US Department of Health and Humans Services notes that women who douche are more likely to have a sexually transmitted disease. Douching can send the harmful bacteria of these infections higher into the reproductive system. Often, women can have chlamydia or gonorrhea without having any symptoms.

Women who douche also have an increased likelihood of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause long-term pain in the pelvic region and increase a woman’s chances of ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Some research suggests that even if a woman who douches regularly doesn’t have PID, she will still take longer to conceive than women who don’t.

Douching at least once a week has also been linked to a possible increased chance of developing certain types of cancer — including cervical cancer and ovarian cancer.

How to Care for Yourself Without Douching

So what is the best way to clean your vagina besides douching? The answer is actually to do nothing. Your vagina, like a self-cleaning oven, is meant to clean itself. The more you interfere with its process by douching or using strong soaps or soaps with fragrance, the more likely you are to experience irritation.

Douching with Water

Some women ask us: “Can I douche with water only?” Most doctors are in agreement that water is the safest and most effective way to clean the vulva. Simply rinse with warm tap water and a washcloth, if necessary.

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact your OB/GYN provider immediately:

• Foul smelling vaginal discharge
• Off colored discharge that may or may not have an odor
• Painful urination
• Discomfort or pain during sex
• Redness, burning and or swelling in or around the vagina

These are not normal processes of your vagina, but are signs that you have some type of infection. Douching will not solve the issue but merely mask the symptoms and make it difficult for your OB/GYN to determine the underlying cause.

All About Women’s experienced and compassionate North Florida OB/GYN physicians, nurses, and staff in Gainesville and Lake City are here to address concerns you might have with douching or its associated risks — as well as all of your other women’s health needs from the first gynecological exam through menopause and more.

Contact us to schedule an appointment, or visit our OB/GYN Information Center and blog to learn more today.

Home Remedies for Yeast Infections That Work — and Which to Avoid

• An effective home remedy for treating yeast infections is taking a probiotic with Lactobacillus or eating it in fermented foods like miso. 
• Boric acid, which can be purchased at most grocery stores, is another home remedy that can treat a yeast infection. 
• Some home remedies to avoid for a yeast infection include garlic, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil. 
• This article was medically reviewed by Olivia P. Myrick, MD, who is a clinical assistant professor with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYU Langone.
• Visit Insider’s Health Reference library for more advice.

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Roughly 75% of women experience a yeast infection in their lifetime, making it a common — but no less irritating — predicament. It should be no surprise then that the internet is filled with advice on how to cure one, from douching with vinegar to lathering on yogurt. Many of these suggestions are not only ineffective but can actually harm your body. 

Here is what the science says about which at-home remedies for yeast infections are helpful, and which are not. 

What are yeast infections? 

Yeast is a type of microscopic fungi, and most yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called candida albicans. This fungus is present in all healthy vaginas and is kept in check by other bacteria. But, at times, this equilibrium can be disrupted due to causes such as antibiotic use and hormone imbalance — like during pregnancy. This can result in an overgrowth of yeast, causing an infection.  

Typical symptoms of a yeast infection include: 

• Itching and burning of the vulva and vagina 
• Painful urination
• Swelling of the vulva
• Redness of the vulva
• Thick, white discharge 

The typical treatment for a yeast infection is an antifungal medication — usually a cream. Over-the-counter creams include Monistat and prescription creams include terconazole. Some patients may also be prescribed a one-time dose of an oral antifungal, such as fluconazole. 

But, for those who would prefer to treat their yeast infection naturally, here are the home remedies that may work — and the ones that don’t. 

Home remedies that may help treat yeast infections 

The following natural remedies have been well-studied, and there is sufficient evidence that they can naturally treat a yeast infection at home, or at least decrease the likelihood of a recurrence: 

1.

Take probiotics 

Certain strains of probiotics, specifically Lactobacillus, supply the vagina with healthy bacteria. This may help treat yeast infections and improve vaginal health altogether, by restoring the balance of bacteria in the vagina.

A 2015 study published in BMC Infectious Diseases involving 19 women with recurrent yeast infections found that the probiotic Lactobacillus effectively prevented the recurrence of infection. Participants who used vaginal capsules with Lactobacillus for 10 days in addition to medication saw an 89% cure rate one year later. Meanwhile, the 12-month cure rate for those who just used medication was 70%. 

Tamika Auguste, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Medstar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC, says “it’s actually when someone stops or removes the probiotics from their regimen when they will develop a yeast infection.” Therefore, some physicians caution against relying solely on probiotics as a treatment. Instead, they could be more of a preventative measure.  

Some easy ways to integrate probiotics into your diet include eating more Lactobacillus-rich foods like kombucha, sauerkraut, and miso. Probiotic supplements that contain at least 1 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) may also be helpful for improving vaginal health. 

2. Try boric acid 

Boric acid is a powdery substance with antifungal properties and probiotics like Lactobacilliales, meaning it balances the bacteria in the vagina, thereby treating yeast infections. Early evidence of boric acid’s ability to treat yeast infections is promising.

For example, a 2011 literature review in the Journal of Women’s Health looked at 14 separate studies where the efficacy of the substance was compared to nine other antifungals like fluconazole and terconazole. The review found that boric acid cured between 40% to 100% of patients. 

You can find boric acid at a grocery store, usually in the pharmacy or cleaning aisle.  

To treat yeast infections, place about 600mg of boric acid into suppository capsules — cone-shaped pills that dissolve in your body — that can then be inserted into the vagina. Standard treatment requires using a pill once a day before bed for seven days straight. 

Take note that there are some side effects to using boric acid. Some people have complained of vaginal burning, watery discharge, and vaginal reddening. Pregnant women should not take boric acid suppositories, as the substance is toxic to a fetus.

Home remedies that don’t treat yeast infections

The following natural remedies lack evidence for their effectiveness at treating yeast infections at home: 

1. Avoid Garlic 

Some have suggested garlic is a good over-the-counter remedy for yeast infections. That’s because allicin, a substance released when fresh garlic is crushed, has well-known antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that can damage bacterial yeasts. However, these benefits do not outweigh the risks.

Auguste says she does not recommend garlic as an at-home treatment for yeast infections due to potential side effects. Placing raw garlic in your vaginal canal not only introduces a foreign object, but she says it can also cause skin in the canal to burn and become irritated. 

Moreover, there’s limited research to suggest that garlic is more effective than other treatments. For example, a 2010 study published in the Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery looked at the effect of treating yeast infections with a medicinal cream filled with garlic and thyme, and how it compared with a typical clotrimazole vaginal cream, an antifungal cream available over the counter or by prescription. The garlic cream was just as effective as the clotrimazole. However, the population studied was quite small, and the group using the garlic treatment reported more side effects overall. 

According to Auguste, “there’s no proof that a clove of garlic alone will prevent or treat an infection. ” 

2. Be wary of tea tree oil 

Tea tree oil is often marketed as a natural substance to help manage acne and other skin conditions. But, there is debate as to whether it can help with yeast infections.  On its own, it certainly won’t cure an infection. But it could prove helpful when combined with other treatments in certain cases.

For example, a 2015 study published in Biomedical Research International examined how 32 strains of antibiotic-resistant Candida Albicans reacted to tea tree oil. The researchers found that tea tree oil may reduce this yeast’s level of resistance. In other words, tea tree oil could increase susceptibility of certain yeast infections to fluconazole — the antifungal medication often used to treat these infections.

3. Skip coconut oil 

While coconut oil is often touted as a cure-all thanks to its antimicrobial properties, there is little evidence it can combat yeast infections.  

Some preliminary studies have found that coconut oil may be effective in combating candida overgrowth. However, these studies were conducted in petri dishes and mice making it unclear if coconut oil would safely treat yeast infections in humans. 

4. Never douche with apple cider vinegar 

Some research suggests apple cider vinegar inhibits yeast growth, which in turn allows white blood cells to consume yeast bacteria. However, the general consensus among the medical community is that douching with apple cider vinegar — or with anything else — will cause more harm than good when it comes to vaginal health.

That’s because douching can alter the delicate pH balance in the vagina, which can actually lead to more yeast infections. Douching is also associated with pelvic inflammatory disease and problems getting pregnant. 

“In the past, [apple cider] vinegar douching was really common. And some women at the time thought that was to help cleanse the vagina. That is not necessary,” Auguste says. 

In rare cases, apple cider vinegar has helped. For example, a 2017 case study published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine described a patient with chronic yeast infections that did not respond to traditional medication. The patient was successfully treated with topical application of apple cider vinegar. But this was just one patient and does not mean that the same approach will work for you.

In fact, most doctors caution against using apple cider vinegar to try to fix a persistent yeast infection. 

How to prevent a yeast infection

Some women are naturally more prone to recurrent yeast infections than others due to compromised immune systems, pregnancy, or genetics. But, there are some practices one can follow to reduce their risk of infection and otherwise maintain vaginal health, such as: 

• Wear loose-fitting clothing and cotton underwear 
• Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom 
• Avoid scented tampons or pads 
• Change tampons and pads often
• Never douche

When to see a doctor

Auguste recommends visiting a doctor whenever you experience yeast infection-like symptoms, even if you hope to treat it without medication. This way you can speak to your doctor about the best treatment options for you and your body. 

“If discharge that is present is clear, no odor, no itching, most times it is normal,” Auguste says. “It’s when that discharge either changes color, extra yellowish or green, becomes thickened or clumpy, or there is a strong odor, that is the time when you should go and see a gynecologist.” 

The bottom line

The nuisances of yeast infections are quite common. Certain home remedies like taking probiotics may aid in recovery, but others may actively harm you. Above all, your best bet is seeing a doctor who can guide you to the most appropriate treatment plan.

Fact or Fiction?: A Clove of Garlic Can Stop a Vaginal Yeast Infection

The feisty warning signs of an oncoming yeast infection can strike at any time: irritation, burning, discharge. This excessive buildup of microscopic fungi can flourish in any moist region—anuses, throats, genitals of both sexes—but most commonly takes root in a woman’s nether regions. Yeast can grow out of check when a person is stressed, has recently used antibiotics or has a weakened immune system. Persistent infections, however, know no health, race or age boundaries. In fact, about 75 percent of women suffer occasional yeast infections. For an unlucky 5 percent these itchy infections grace their private parts more than four times a year.

 

Many sufferers have devised creative home remedies for calming this vaginal fury. Some freeze yogurt into ice cube–size popsicles and insert them into their vaginas. Others swallow capsules of probiotics or douche with tea tree oil. Perhaps most unusual is an alternative therapy that uses a common culinary ingredient—garlic. But instead of ingesting the Allium, women insert it into their vaginas as aromatic suppositories for hours at a time. Do these old wives tales really work? And whether they do or not, can they be dangerous?

 

To get the medical perspective on such treatments, Scientific American spoke with Paul Nyirjesy, an obstetrician–gynecologist and director of the Drexel Vaginitis Center at Drexel University College of Medicine. He treats women with complicated and chronic vaginal problems, including recurrent yeast infections. He recently published a paper examining how a majority of women with such problems use alternative treatments—primarily out of desperation.

 

[An edited transcript of the conversation follows.]

 

 
What is your background in treating yeast infections?

I did a fellowship in infectious diseases about 20 years ago. I used that training to focus on seeing women with chronic vaginal problems. For the past 11 years, I’ve been the director of the Drexel Vaginitis Center. We see women with all sorts of complicated problems, including but not limited to recurrent yeast infections.

 
How common is it for a woman to try an alternative therapy at home before she goes to the doctor?

For women who have chronic vaginal problems, a majority of them—about two thirds—will try at least one form of alternative medication.

 
What are the most common types of alternative therapies that you’ve seen women try?

By far the two most common are going to be either yogurt or probiotic pills—usually taken orally, sometimes taken vaginally.

 
Is there any indication that these treatments might work?

Nope.

 
Can these treatments make yeast infections worse?

They probably don’t make them worse; I don’t think it really makes a difference. There have been a bunch of probiotic studies—most of them don’t show any benefit at all. A few have shown potential benefit, but it’s not totally clear that the studies didn’t have flaws that might make the results questionable.

 
There’s a strong cadre of women on the Internet who swear that inserting a garlic clove into the vagina will clear a yeast infection. Do you think this method is helpful?

Almost 10 percent of the patients we see have tried garlic before they get to us. I’m biased, of course, because I’m seeing patients where things haven’t worked. But I can’t recall a single patient who told me that she used garlic and she thought it was helpful.

 
Do any scientific studies suggest that garlic may clear an infection?

I did a literature search and the only paper I found was a paper from The Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research in December 2010. They compared a cream that had clotrimazole, a standard antifungal cream, to a cream that contained garlic and thyme. They found that the garlic and thyme cream was as effective as the clotrimazole cream. The problem was that if you looked at the actual results, it’s hard to know which patients really got better. They didn’t really have follow-up cultures. It’s difficult to look at the paper and base any firm conclusions on it, other than the patients had a decrease in vaginal symptoms when they were using this cream.

 
Another study out of Australia looked at oral garlic. The group has been doing some pretty serious studies looking at alternative medications to treat vaginal infections. They did a small study looking at what oral garlic does to the growth of yeast in the vagina and they found that there was no impact. That was a well-done, randomized controlled trial.

 
Where did this remedy originate?

There is some information that there’s a compound in garlic, called allicin, that is considered fungicidal. In the lab it looks as though it has antifungal activity. There have been some animal studies that look interesting. Theoretically it makes a lot of sense. But you don’t know how much garlic you need or how effective it is. If you put a clove of garlic in your vagina, does it really treat what’s going on in the vagina or is it just sitting there with all the active ingredients sitting in a clove of garlic?

 
Are there any risks associated with walking around with a garlic clove in the vagina?

Probably not. The main concern would be that if you put anything in your vagina, there’s a chance you’ll get irritation and burning from whatever you put in there.

 
Are there any alternative remedies that appear to actually work?

One remedy with a fair amount of data is boric acid. Boric acid has been around since the 1860s. It’s the same thing you use to get rid of cockroaches. It’s a very effective antifungal, and for some of the more resistant types of yeast infections we see it’s actually the first line therapy.

 
How is it taken and where can you get it?

Boric acid is poisonous if taken by mouth. When I prescribe it, I usually have a compounding pharmacy mix it into 600-milligram capsules that patients use vaginally. There are patients who order gelatin capsules and boric acid, and they make it up themselves. My concern is I’m not sure they’re necessarily getting the correct dose, which is why I like to get it mixed by a pharmacy. Studies have usually looked at a two- or three-week course of treatment.

 
Is boric acid as effective as prescription medications used to treat vaginal yeast infections?

For short-term treatments, probably. And for some of the more resistant yeast, it’s actually better. There’s a fair amount of literature showing that this is the way to go. If you look on the CDC [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] guidelines for treating yeast infections, you’ll see them talk about boric acid. If you read the guidelines by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, they talk about it as well.

 
Can boric acid be toxic if used at too high of a dose?

If you use too much of it, yes. But if it’s a little bit off from 600 milligrams, probably not. Just like any other thing you put in your vagina, the most common side effects are going to be burning and irritation. It’s actually in general pretty well tolerated. And the other big thing is to keep it out of reach of little children and pets.

 
Do you think women have enough options to get correct medical treatment?

The treatments available over the counter are comparable in terms of efficacy to what you can get with a prescription. Over-the-counter Monistat treatment is as good for an isolated episode as one pill of fluconazole, which is the standard for a single yeast infection episode. I think the issue is that there are loads of women out there self-treating for yeast infection who don’t have it at all. The data is that a lot of women don’t really know when they have a yeast infection. The good news is that the treatments available have a very low risk to them. They probably, for the most part, aren’t doing themselves significant harm. But some of the treatments are probably not the right treatments.

 
What is the best course of treatment for a woman with a yeast infection that simply won’t go away?

The first thing is to get a culture to identify which type of yeast is causing the infection. In most women it’s going to be Candida albicans, which is the most common cause of yeast infections in general and also the most common cause of recurrent yeast infections. The approach that seems to work the best right now is putting patients on maintenance therapy. For six months they take a pill of fluconazole once a week. It’s very effective—about 90 percent of people do great during that six-month period of time. About 10 percent may have occasional breakthroughs, where they get an occasional infection while on treatment. The issue is that about half the time, once patients stop treatment, the infection comes back.

 
Why do you think that a lot of women resort to these alternative therapies before seeing a doctor?

I think a lot of times they don’t feel that doctors are going to have a good answer for them. Unfortunately, many doctors aren’t aware of recommendations for maintenance therapy. Another thing is that alternative remedies sound great. You don’t have to go in, you don’t have to be evaluated. There’s a perception that if it’s a natural remedy, it’s going to be completely safe and there won’t be any side effects. There’s this perception that natural is going to be better because it helps your body take care of the problem.

90,000 Acidity (pH) of the vaginal environment: What is normal acidity? | Libresse

Certain daily activities, medications and bodily processes can cause imbalances in the pH of the vaginal environment. Read on to learn more about what can be causing the pH imbalance, so you can be more aware of why this might be happening.

Hygiene products

Sweet and pleasantly scented, some scented intimate gels, perfumes, scrubs, feminine hygiene products and douching (washing or cleaning the vagina with water or liquid mixtures ^[2] ) can irritate the vagina and disrupt its natural pH level, as these products can sometimes be either too alkaline or contain strong chemicals. In any case, the inside of the vagina should not be washed!

Unprotected sex

Most of us didn’t learn this in sexology class in school, but semen is actually a very alkaline substance. Therefore, when it enters the vagina, it can disrupt the vaginal pH.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are great at getting rid of unwanted bad bacteria, but unfortunately they can sometimes kill good bacteria as well. When the good bacteria in your vagina have died, your vaginal pH changes, which means you are prone to developing yeast infections ^[3] .

Clothing

Interestingly, nylon, wet or even sweaty clothing after a gym workout provides a warm environment where bacteria and yeast can grow and cause an imbalance in the pH of the vaginal environment. So even if doing laundry is your headache, it’s worth it, even just to avoid a potential yeast infection!

Menses

Menstrual blood is also more alkaline than your natural vaginal pH, so sometimes, if hygiene products are not changed frequently enough, it can lead to an increase in the pH of the vaginal environment. Menses can be a pretty stressful period and without a pH imbalance, right? Keep reading for some helpful tips on how to keep your vaginal environment in check!

90,000 9 facts about intimate hygiene that every girl should know

“I don’t my vagina” – with these words began the video of American Stevie (she writes a blog about sex education on YouTube), under which the holivar unfolded with 7 thousand comments.

It was in 2014, and two years later, questions about whether you really need to wash yourself every day using special detergents began to appear on the Russian Internet.In particular, sex education activist Tatyana Nikonova and candidate of medical sciences, obstetrician-gynecologist Tatyana Rumyantseva have responded to them more than once in their blogs.

The dirtiest place in our body is the mouth, but it seems that it is the vagina that women are trying to wash. There is almost never a real reason to feel not clean enough in this area, but men often insist that women give their vaginas a floral scent.

Let’s find out why you need to leave your genitals alone and how to properly care for them to stay healthy.

1. The vagina is a perfectly balanced system

“For millions of years, this part of the body has created its own highly effective cleaning process,” British Consultant Gynecologist Dr. Austin Ugwumadu tells The Daily Mail.

American Gynecologist Dr. Alyssa Dweck confirms: “The vagina is an incredible self-cleaning environment. She has her own ways of maintaining an acidic pH to prevent infections. ”

Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at Yale School of Medicine, advises simply leaving the vagina alone: ​​“Your actions can upset the pH balance or destroy the natural bacterial flora in the vagina, which is essential for health “.

Let us clarify that the vagina is an acidic environment with a pH level ranging from 3. 8 to 4.4. Intimate hygiene products are divided into products with high acidity (pH about 3.5) and neutral (pH about 5).

Tatiana Rumyantseva, PhD, wrote: “There is one study showing that acidic pH gel combined with standard treatment for bacterial vaginosis can help reduce relapse. But far-reaching conclusions from the results of one study can never be drawn.Even if we believe this data, such gels are needed only for women with recurrent bacterial vaginosis. ”

The use of pH-neutral intimate hygiene products does not make sense in principle.

About them Rumyantseva says: “They should not bring any harm or benefit to intimate health. There is no evidence to the contrary. ”

And most likely, such a product costs several times more than a regular shower gel or soap that suits you. Rumyantseva adds that “there are now enough pH-neutral whole-body gels on the market that can be used to wash whole, not parts.”

2.

Douching is evil

Women’s forums and even gynecologists advise periodically douching for prophylaxis, for example with chlorhexidine. So, stop it.

Douching often does more harm than good. It can kill “good” bacteria, including lactobacilli, which we need to maintain our pH balance. Some store-bought douching kits contain fragrances or antiseptics that can seriously irritate the mucous membranes.

The vagina cleans itself, no need to rinse it with water, vinegar or other liquids.

Discharge on the laundry is annoying, but it is not a sign of uncleanness or illness. It is a healthy, normal bodily function.

Discharge can be viewed as a vaginal “barometer”. If you are confident that you have no medical conditions, and your discharge is no different from your normal discharge, then it is usually a sign of healthy estrogen levels, blood flow, and vaginal pH.This is an indicator that the vagina is healthy and able to cleanse itself of irritating substances.

However, if you notice a significant change in the amount, texture, color, or odor of your discharge, you should see your doctor. This could be a sign of infection.

3. The vulva needs to be washed, but there is a possibility that you are doing it wrong

If the vagina cleans itself, then the vulva – the outer part of the genitals, including the labia – should be washed.

In the folds of the vulva there can be bacteria and smegma – an accumulation of sebum and dead epithelial cells.This needs to be rinsed off, but you are probably overdoing it, while hands and a little soap are enough. Rubbing vigorously with a washcloth is also not necessary. If soap is not available, plain water will do just fine.

Soaps that are too scented may cause irritation or an allergic reaction to the vulva.

“We’re talking about the most sensitive tissue in the body, so the less perfume and chemicals the better,” says Dr. Minkin.

Experts advise using a mild, fragrance-free soap, plain glycerin or Castile soap (based on olive oil) will also work.

In addition, it is not necessary to wash your vulva with soap every day. “Excessive cleaning can disrupt the protective layer of the skin,” says Dr. Dweck. Even if you shower twice a day or feel the need to clean up after sex, try to use soap only once.

And then you don’t need to rub the genital area vigorously with a towel – it’s too rough for such a delicate tissue. It is enough to gently pat the surface with a clean towel.

4.Be careful with your bath bombs

A hot bath with scented candles and your favorite TV show is a great relaxing experience. But if you want to add a colored scented bath bomb, your vagina is unlikely to like it.

Dr. Minkin claims that bath bombs, like bubble baths, can disrupt vaginal pH. As a reminder, this can make you more susceptible to irritation or infections.

This does not mean that you have to throw away all your bath products. Just cut back on their use to one to two times a month. And don’t use bombs if you already have itching or irritation. Also watch out for similar unpleasant symptoms after using new products.

5. Each vagina has its own unique odor, which is normal

Often the odor is the cause of concern, but it is not an indicator of impurity. This is just an indication that you have a vagina.

Every woman has her own unique vaginal odor, which can change depending on the menstrual cycle and diet.And this is completely normal.

No need to try to disguise it with special perfumed products, this is very irritating to the vulva.

It is worth remembering your smell and notice when it changes, especially if additional symptoms such as itching appear. This is a reason to go to the doctor.

6. Scented pads should be thrown away

Perfumed pads and tampons are harsh and should definitely not be near the sensitive tissue of the vulva or vagina.

“Scented tampons can upset the pH balance in the vagina and cause irritation or an allergic reaction, so it is best to opt for fragrance-free options,” says Dr. Dweck.

For the rest, it doesn’t matter what type of pads or tampons you use: natural or artificial, with a plastic applicator or cardboard. The main thing is that the hygiene products are non-perfumed.

7. High-quality and comfortable underwear is very important

You probably have super uncomfortable, unpleasantly tight underwear that you can’t throw away.The time has come: get rid of all the underpants that don’t suit you.

Experts recommend cotton underwear, or at least options with a cotton gusset. But you wear thongs or “family members” – it doesn’t matter if they are comfortable and allow the skin to breathe.

If the genitals do not have access to air, this increases the risk of a yeast infection. Yeast thrives in warm and humid places, so it’s not a good idea to sit in air-impermeable underwear all day.

8. Most irritations are caused by everyday cosmetics

“The main cause of vulvar irritation is allergies or sensitivities to ingredients in the products we use every day. They can cause itching and abnormal discharge, ”says Dr. Dweck.

These products can be lotions, soaps, shaving creams, sprays, shower gels, and anything else that comes into contact (directly or indirectly) with your vulva or vagina.

Wet wipes, if used for intimate hygiene, can also cause irritation. “Beware of wet wipes: the chemicals in them can cause rashes from the vulva to the anus,” says Dr. Dweck.

For your own safety, buy odorless products with a minimum of ingredients. Leave the trendy lotions for your feet and hands.

9. The vulva should be checked regularly for skin cancer

Just because the genitals are usually not exposed to sunlight does not mean that there cannot be skin cancer or something else.

Therefore, doctors advise checking the vulva and the surrounding skin using a speculum. This will help identify changes. Look for new moles, birthmarks, and frequent scratches on your skin.

If you notice anything strange, see a dermatologist.

Conclusion

So, it’s worth remembering this:

1. The vagina cleans itself.
2. Douching does more harm than good.
3. The vulva should be washed no more than once a day with plain water or with unscented soap.
4. Do not abuse bath bombs or other products with fragrances or dyes.
5. Highlights are normal. Follow their changes.
6. Natural vaginal odor is also normal, no need to spray into it. Watch for odor changes.
7. Wear comfortable underwear.
8. Do not use perfumed pads or swabs.
9. Check your vulva and surrounding skin periodically for new moles or bleeding areas of skin.

Read also 🧐

Treatment of colpitis with folk remedies. | Central Clinic

COLLPITE is an inflammatory disease of the vaginal mucosa caused by pathogenic or opportunistic microorganisms. Also, risk factors can be conditions in which the natural flora of the vagina changes: diseases of the endocrine system, prolonged use of antibiotics, local allergic reactions.Colpitis (vaginitis) is a common condition that affects women of childbearing age. During menopause, atrophic colpitis occurs. Often this disease is combined with inflammatory diseases of the external genital organs (vulvitis), cystitis, cervicitis.

Reasons for the appearance:

• opportunistic flora;
• sexually transmitted infections.

The provoking factor is: violations of the vaginal microflora, endocrine (hormonal) changes, incl.including age-related, inflammatory process in the small pelvis, prolonged use of antibiotics, non-observance of the rules of personal hygiene during intercourse, hypothermia, decreased immunity, stress.

Symptoms:

Colpitis in the acute stage is bright:

• itching and burning;
• pain during intercourse;
• discharge profuse, mucous, may be mixed with blood;
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.

Home treatment of colpitis:

Having identified this disease in herself, a woman, by virtue of saving time on a visit to the doctor, hurries to the pharmacy for medications : antibacterial suppositories, vaginal pills or antibiotics.These treatments can only be effective if prescribed by a doctor. With self-medication, the patient cannot independently determine the causative agent of the disease, and therefore choose a drug that will improve, rather than worsen the situation. Or the drug can relieve the symptom of the disease, but not eliminate the cause itself, and then everything will resume and worsen.

There are folk remedies based on the use at home of decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs , which are used for vaginal baths and douching.Among the most common medicinal herbs in use are 90,180: chamomile, celandine, calendula, ginger, immortelle, eucalyptus, blueberries and blackberries, and even honey . It is worth noting that treatment with herbal infusions at home is effective and can improve the condition of the patient’s mucous membrane, but is aimed primarily at getting rid of the main signs of inflammation – burning, itching, feeling of dryness, unusual discharge. To deal with the causative agent of the disease, it is necessary to consult a specialist.With an integrated approach, you can achieve good results. Do not self-medicate – see a qualified gynecologist.

90,000 The most common reason for visiting a gynecologist is “Family and School”

The most common reason for visiting a gynecologist

Most often, a gynecologist is consulted about vaginal discharge

Every little thing is very important for every girl and woman, especially regarding intimate health … Sometimes the inappropriate bubble bath or a new towel can cause irritation and discomfort.In addition, many representatives of the fair sex harm themselves when they observe hygiene too carefully: sometimes women abuse douching, thinking that this way cleanliness will be achieved for sure. But at the same time there is a “washout” and lactobacilli, so necessary for women’s intimate health. A decrease in the number of lactobacilli can occur after a course of antibiotic therapy. Moreover, such consequences can occur both after taking antibiotics inside and after topical application.A decrease in the number of lactobacilli leads to the reproduction of conditionally pathogenic flora. As a result, discharge, itching, and discomfort appear.

The following disorders of the vaginal microflora are most common

Bacterial vaginosis

is a disease of the vaginal mucosa resulting from changes in the composition of its microflora. Most often, signs of bacterial vaginosis can be suspected if the following symptoms are present:

• Moderate or profuse whitish discharge;
• Unpleasant smell, reminiscent of rotten fish;
• Discomfort during intercourse;
• In some cases, there may be itching and a slight burning sensation.

Symptoms sometimes appear after the end of menstruation, when an unpleasant odor is observed for several days.

Bacterial vaginitis is a disease in which the vaginal mucosa becomes inflamed due to a violation of its microflora. The following symptoms are characteristic of bacterial vaginitis:

• Itching, burning in the vagina, aggravated by intercourse;
• Discharge with an unpleasant odor, swelling and redness of the vaginal mucosa;
• Pain when urinating.

Symptoms of bacterial vaginitis may mimic those of other sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, consulting a gynecologist and conducting additional laboratory tests is a prerequisite for prescribing the correct treatment for bacterial vaginitis.

“Thrush” is a candidiasis of the mucous membranes. This disease is manifested by cheesy vaginal discharge. The cause of this disease is yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida, conditionally pathogenic for humans. Vaginal candidiasis ranks second in frequency of occurrence at a gynecologist’s appointment. The “honorable” first place belongs to bacterial vaginosis.

7 Vaginal Odors You Need to Know – HEROINE

Unbelievable Fact: A vagina should always smell like a vagina. Advertising can broadcast as much as necessary means that will turn your secretions into honeydew, but this can only happen as a result of hormonal and bacterial disorders that are dangerous to health.Also, do not be ashamed that your scent may seem unpleasant to one person – the way a vagina smells does not determine your entire sex life. But some vaginal odors should be monitored especially closely, because they can indicate both infections that should be treated as soon as possible, and that your favorite lubricant is not suitable for you.

1. Chlorine odor

Certain lubricants or lubricated condoms can cause vaginal odor, similar to bleach, to develop.In this situation, there is nothing to worry about, this is not a sign of any disease, but just a signal that it is worth choosing a more suitable lubricant.

2. Sweet smell

As funny as it sounds, diet can affect the taste and smell of the vagina, albeit only slightly. For example, citrus foods such as oranges, pineapples, and grapefruit can significantly sweeten the smell of vaginal fluid, while onions, garlic, and broccoli, on the other hand, may not create the most pleasant scent.

3. The smell of musk

The harshness of the vaginal odor can also change because of what you do during the day. For example, if you exercise vigorously, it is perfectly normal for your vagina to smell a little more musky due to the moisture produced by the sweat glands around you. If you are serious about your health and plan to increase your physical activity, try to get special underwear that will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and irritation in the vagina.

4. Fishy odor from the vagina

If you notice a fishy odor from the vagina, which intensifies immediately after sex, and is also accompanied by profuse discharge, this may indicate bacterial vaginosis or thrush. In this state, bacteria begin to proliferate, disrupting the normal pH balance of the vagina. Fortunately, antibiotics are easy to fix.

Read on: How to tell your partner about your intimate disease

5. Metallic odor

It is absolutely normal if your vaginal odor seems metallic during menstruation.This does not mean any danger to health, especially if you follow all the rules of hygiene and are careful about penetrating sex. If you notice a similar smell during ovulation, you should take a closer look at the state of the vagina and make sure that you do not have bleeding.

6. Smell of yeast

A small amount of yeast is always in our vagina, but if you recently used poor-quality lubricant, spermicides, drank antibiotics, or suddenly became pregnant, this can cause active growth of the fungus.A yeast infection is easy to spot by a cottage cheese-like discharge. Usually this infection goes away on its own, but if you observe a similar situation for more than a week, it makes sense to consult a doctor.

7. Pungent, rotting odor

If you feel that the vaginal odor has changed so much that it can only cause disgust, your body temperature is elevated, and cramps are observed in the lower abdomen – this may be a sign of pelvic inflammation.

It is often caused by STDs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia when certain bacteria travel to the cervix or other reproductive organs.This disease has unpleasant consequences, up to infertility and chronic pain, so treatment should be started immediately. A gynecologist will do tests and prescribe certain antibiotics to help solve the problem.

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Dysbacteriosis: when it smelled of fish

Why protection failed

Vaginitis caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa took a leading place among the main gynecological diseases of young women.Their symptoms are very similar, moreover, in about a third of cases, tests detect several pathogens at the same time – a mixed form of infection. It all starts with an imbalance of forces on the microscopic front. Indeed, the vagina has its own microbiological defense system, which maintains a balance between the bacteria that inhabit it. It reliably protects against all kinds of pathogens – from the candida fungus, which causes a relatively harmless thrush, to Trichomonas and gonococci, which can provoke sexually transmitted diseases.

The healing lactobacilli are taking care of the infection not to penetrate the holy of holies of the female body. They produce lactic acid and a number of other substances that create an acidic environment in the vagina, which organically cannot be tolerated by microscopic enemies that cause vaginitis. But lactobacilli are big sissies. They die under stress and weakened immunity, as well as due to the use of antibiotics and hormonal contraceptives, endocrine imbalance caused by ovarian dysfunction, diseases of the stomach, intestines, pancreas and thyroid glands, the use of intrauterine devices, douching and vaginal douches. Risk factors also include excess weight, hot baths, alkaline (highly foaming) intimate hygiene gels. Little of! Useful microbes can die out completely if you have not changed a tampon or pad for too long, or wear tight-fitting trousers and synthetic underwear, under which the body does not breathe, and oxygen does not penetrate the tissues (it is vital for beneficial lactobacilli, and its harmful microorganisms are for the spirit do not tolerate).

A holy place is never empty

The place of disappeared lactobacilli is occupied by the so-called anaerobic microorganisms, which do not use oxygen for their vital activity, but instead of useful acid produce harmful alkali.In an alkaline environment, the causative agents of vaginal infections flourish, and the proteins that produce the cells of the vaginal mucosa begin to decompose and acquire an unpleasant odor. It intensifies after sex – after all, semen also has an alkaline reaction.

If you have similar symptoms, do not be alarmed – we are not talking about vaginitis as such. There is a picture of vaginal dysbiosis (gynecologists call it bacterial vaginosis). With vaginosis, the genital mucosa is not yet inflamed, which means that there is no vaginitis in the classical sense of the word yet.But it will develop very soon if the appropriate measures are not taken.

Vaginosis occurs in 75% of women suffering from intestinal dysbiosis, in which there is unstable stool, increased gas formation, a tendency to food allergies. If you have similar complaints, pay a visit not only to the gastroenterologist, but also to the gynecologist. To confirm the presence of vaginosis, the doctor will take a swab from the vagina. After all, half of the women suffering from it have vaginosis asymptomatic. But all this for the time being – at a critical moment, it can lead to serious complications.For example, interfere with conception, leading to infertility, or disrupt the normal course of pregnancy, as well as create favorable conditions for inflammatory and oncological diseases of the female genital organs.

Milk with the smell of fish

A characteristic sign of bacterial vaginosis is abundant liquid discharge of a whitish color (leucorrhoea) of a homogeneous structure, smelling of fish. There are so many of them (especially after sexual intercourse), as if a cup of milk was poured into the vagina.Constant discomfort – itching, burning, irritation, feeling of excess moisture, which bother with most inflammatory diseases of the vagina, lose their severity over time. With bacterial vaginosis with experience, a woman gets used to these sensations. And sometimes they are practically invisible from the very beginning: it all depends on individual sensitivity to the irritating effect of alkaline vaginal secretions. If there are no vivid manifestations of the disease, this does not mean that you are healthy: this happens with a temporary balance between the pathogenic microflora and the protective mechanisms of the female body.And an asymptomatic infection is no less dangerous than the typical forms of the disease, which openly declare themselves.

Do not blame your husband

Vaginosis is not sexually transmitted: it is not an infection, but just a painful condition in which the vaginal microflora is disturbed. The difference is like between cholera and intestinal dysbiosis: the first is very dangerous, and the second cannot be infected from another person. Microorganisms that contribute to the development of vaginosis, such as gardnerella, are found in 50-60% of healthy women, although in much smaller numbers than in patients.Vaginosis with the same frequency is detected in virgins (12%) and their contemporaries who have had sexual contacts (15%). By itself, initiation of sex can cause a temporary weakening of local defenses and thereby contribute to vaginosis. If you have been diagnosed with this, do not worry about your partner: he does not need to be treated.

How to restore protection

Bacterial vaginosis interferes with the protective properties of the vagina. If pathogens get into it, inflammatory diseases (vaginitis) flare up here as easily as peat bogs in a drought from an accidentally thrown match. And to extinguish the fire of inflammation proceeding against the background of vaginosis is much more difficult: as a rule, such vaginitis acquire a severe course. It is also bad that one infection often overlaps with another: in every third case, such vaginitis is caused by two or more microorganisms.

There are many drugs that restore the vaginal microflora. The problem is that in our age, when potent antibiotics and hormonal agents are actively used, bacterial resistance is growing, so scientists have to constantly invent more and more powerful drugs with more and more serious side effects.The result is a vicious circle where one is treated and the other is crippled. That is why it is most advisable to use local antiseptic agents that act locally for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. They are not absorbed into the bloodstream, which means they do not give serious side effects and do not increase the resistance of bacteria.

At present, iodine preparations are widely used among local antiseptic agents. So, for example, polyvidone-iodine, which is part of the Betadine drug, has a pronounced bactericidal, sporicidal, antiviral and antifungal effect, effective against most pathogenic microorganisms.

Betadine has all the requirements for modern drugs for the effective treatment of bacterial vaginosis. The drug has a wide spectrum of action, does not contain antibiotics and does not cause resistance of pathogenic flora, provides quick conditions for the normalization of the vaginal microflora. Plus, Betadine has proven itself over the years and is indicated in the first trimester of pregnancy!

Keep in mind: three months after the end of treatment, you need to visit a gynecologist for a follow-up examination.In some women, vaginosis recurs during this period. If this happens, the doctor can prescribe an additional course of treatment, help identify and eliminate provoking factors.

How to prepare for a gynecological examination

Refrain from visiting the gynecologist during menstruation – they complicate the examination. 2-3 days before the visit, do not inject medications into the vagina, give up douching and other local procedures, use a condom during sex.Avoid using deodorants or aromatic fragrances to fight off bad odor from your genitals. This is an important diagnostic symptom – there is nothing to be ashamed of! During the examination, the gynecologist will take a swab from the vagina and send it to the laboratory. In some cases, a blood test may be needed to diagnose a vaginal infection.

Smell after intercourse

Smell after intercourse is a very unpleasant problem for both men and women. As a rule, an unpleasant odor originates from the genitals; normally it should not be present.In this material, you will learn about the causes of this symptom and methods of overcoming it.

An unpleasant smell after intercourse may resemble:

• the smell of rotten fish: a common symptom of the disease caused by gardnerella;
• sour odor: may indicate genital candidiasis (thrush);
• a smell resembling the smell of pus often accompanies gonorrhea, or inflammatory diseases of the genital organs;
• A rotten smell indicates an inflammation process caused by STD pathogens: Trichomonas, chlamydia, ureaplasma, etc.

The reasons for unpleasant odor after intercourse are as follows:

• genital infections,
• non-observance of intimate hygiene,
• Frequent douching of the vagina in women, leading to a violation of microflora,
• hormonal disorders,
• endocrine diseases (diabetes mellitus),
• inaccuracies in the diet: excess of spices, seasonings, garlic.

Yet the most common cause of bad breath after intercourse is sexually transmitted infections.

Gardnerellosis. Gardnerella vaginalis is a conditionally pathogenic agent that causes a smell that often resembles the smell of rotten fish. Gardnerellosis (bacterial vaginosis) is more common in women; it actively develops when the vaginal microflora is disturbed due to frequent douching, wearing tight synthetic underwear, and irregular hygiene. Among its manifestations are discomfort during sexual intercourse, mucous discharge from the genital tract.

Candidiasis. Candida albicans is the causative agent of candidiasis, which is a fungal disease.Candidiasis is characterized by the appearance of a sour odor after intercourse, cheesy discharge, itching of the genitals.

Trichomoniasis. The causative agent of the infection is Trichomonas vaginalis, or Trichomonas vaginalis. It also spreads sexually through unprotected contact. Discharge in trichomoniasis has a yellowish-white tint, more often abundant, has an unpleasant odor, which is acutely felt after intercourse. Men develop Trichomonas urethritis with all accompanying symptoms (burning sensation during urination, frequent urge to urinate), women first develop vaginitis (inflammation of the vaginal mucosa), and then colpitis (inflammation of the cervical mucosa).

Gonorrhea. Neisser’s gonococcus is a bacterium that infects the mucous membranes of the urogenital tract, as well as often the conjunctiva, oropharynx, rectum. Gonorrhea has pronounced symptoms: in both men and women, abundant yellow discharge appears, an unpleasant odor worries, pain in the lower abdomen.

Any infectious disease is dangerous with the development of complications (chronic inflammation, infertility), therefore, if a symptom such as an unpleasant odor appears after intercourse, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible to identify the causes of the alarming symptom and combat them.

If an unpleasant smell disturbs after intercourse, it is extremely important to exclude STDs; for this there is laboratory diagnostics: urogenital smears with examination by microscopy, bacterial culture, PCR.

Treatment will depend on the causative factor: antifungal or antibacterial drugs, local anti-inflammatory treatment, etc.

To avoid the appearance of an unpleasant odor after intercourse, it is recommended to carefully monitor intimate hygiene, wear underwear made from natural fabrics, avoid STDs (use contraceptive methods), and treat inflammatory diseases of the urogenital area in time.

Doctors of all specialties work in our clinic, there is a modern laboratory, a wide range of analyzes, ultrasound diagnostics are available. The diagnosis can be established already on the day of treatment, which is achieved thanks to express diagnostics and ultrasound immediately, immediately after consulting a doctor.

Doctor of the clinic “Private practice” dermatovenerologist, urologist Volokhov Ye.A. talks about the unpleasant smell after sex.

The content of the article was checked and confirmed for compliance with medical standards by the chief physician of the clinic “Chastnaya Praktika”

Evgeny Aleksandrovich Volokhov

Dermatovenereologist, urologist-andrologist with the highest medical category

Vaginal discharge41: norm or pathology for women, it is normal for them to have vaginal discharge.They moisturize the vaginal walls and protect the genitals from infection. As for 10-12 year old girls, they should not have vaginal discharge, because their hormonal levels are too low, and their glands are not functioning yet.

Before the onset of menstruation in girls (about a year before), the discharge of leucorrhoea from the vagina begins, which indicates hormonal changes in their body. The discharge should be creamy and uniform, without an unpleasant odor (or slightly sour smell).

It is clear that women’s discharge should not be painful, cause itching, swelling of the skin or other discomfort.This can only indicate pathology:

Trichomoniasis. Profuse white, greenish or pus-like, foul-smelling discharge with itching and / or burning, painful urination.

Thrush (candidiasis). Itching and thick, profuse discharge, like lumps of yellowish curd. Exhausting intense itching of the genitals and irritation (redness, swelling) of the external genital organs.

Bacterial vaginosis. The amount of discharge increases significantly, the color of the discharge is grayish-white or yellowish, and an unpleasant fishy odor appears. Symptoms are worse after intercourse.

Chlamydia. Characterized by a yellow discharge, often accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, painful urination.

Gooreyan. Moderate, frothy, yellowish-white discharge, accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, pain when urinating, and often intermenstrual bleeding.

Colpitis. The discharge is varied: liquid, watery, sometimes thick, purulent, often offensive, often mixed with blood.

Acute inflammation is accompanied by itching, burning sensation or heat in the genital area.

Oncological diseases of the internal genital organs are often accompanied by liquid, like water, copious secretions.

Discharge in the menstrual cycle

Each period of the menstrual cycle corresponds to a certain amount and structure of discharge:

The first phase of is characterized by scanty transparent discharge from the vagina (up to 2 ml per day). Sometimes it can be a white vaginal discharge that has a watery or mucous structure.

During ovulation (middle of the menstrual cycle), the discharge may become more abundant, up to 4 ml per day. They acquire a mucous structure, become stringy, and the color of vaginal discharge sometimes becomes beige.

The number of secretions decreases in the second half of the cycle. They become sour or creamy (not always). Their number may increase again a couple of days before the onset of menstruation.

What contributes to a change in the nature and amount of discharge

The structure of vaginal discharge can change when a girl begins to have sexual intercourse, as well as after a change of sexual partner. This is due to the fact that a new unfamiliar microflora enters the woman’s vagina, and the body adapts to it. Naturally, the occurrence of unpleasant sensations is evidence of pathologies, so it is better to seek medical advice from a doctor.

A decrease in the abundance of vaginal discharge may begin as a result of taking hormonal drugs (contraceptives).Their number also changes during pregnancy, because the hormonal background of a woman is changing. In this case, the discharge becomes liquid and abundant.

After intercourse, specific discharge is possible: after unprotected – transparent thick discharge with a yellowish or white tinge, after protected – white creamy discharge.

Take care of your health and in the presence of alarms, be sure to make an appointment with a gynecologist.

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ABC medicine

Cervical cancer is a tumor lesion of this anatomical formation that develops as a result of malignant transformation of epithelial tissue.Most often, the disease is diagnosed in women over 40 years of age. There are 2 types of this oncological pathology: squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix and adenocarcinoma.

Symptoms

There are no clinical symptoms of cervical cancer with microinvasive tumor. The appearance of complaints indicates the progression of cancer.

Vaginal discharge. A common sign of cervical cancer is bleeding between menstrual periods, after intercourse or after a pelvic exam, and heavy menstrual bleeding.In some cases, women notice the appearance of liquid and transparent leucorrhoea, which may have a yellowish tint. With the decay of a malignant neoplasm, the discharge becomes purulent, acquires an unpleasant putrid odor.

Pain syndrome. If the tumor grows into the walls of the pelvis and through the nerve plexuses, pain begins under the bosom, in the abdomen, and the sacrum. Unpleasant sensations appear at rest or during intercourse. When cancer metastases to the lymph nodes and the veins of the pelvis are compressed, edema of the external genital organs develops.

Disorders of urination and defecation. A tumor from the cervix may have spread to the bladder and intestines. In this case, an admixture of blood in the urine and feces may appear, metastases in the ureter lead to acute urinary retention and hydronephrosis. The appearance of vaginal-vesical or vaginal-intestinal fistulas is possible.

Signs of tumor intoxication . Common symptoms of the disease include fatigue, persistent fever, weight loss, weakness, and drowsiness.

Treatment

Early (0-2). At the initial stage of the development of the disease, various types of surgical treatment are used: laser and cryosurgery, wedge-shaped removal of the affected part of the cervix, excision of the neoplasm with an electric loop. In case of recurrence of the tumor or if the woman does not plan to become pregnant in the future, the treatment of cervical cancer is carried out by removing the entire affected organ (hysterectomy). Additionally, patients are prescribed radio and chemotherapy. In patients with advanced stages of cervical cancer, surgery involves removing nearby lymph nodes.

In the later stages (3-4). Patients with stages 3-4 of cervical cancer are indicated for chemotherapy, as well as external and internal irradiation of the affected area. If the disease recurs, a second extended operation is often performed. In the presence of distant metastases in the bones, liver and other organs, chemotherapy is the main method of treatment.

You can undergo examination and start treatment for cervical cancer at any stage in the ABC? Medicine clinic.A preliminary appointment with a doctor is carried out by phone: +7 (495) 223-38-83 .

Vaginal discharge. When to suspect a pathology

What is vaginal discharge?

Vaginal discharge is the result of certain processes in the female body. Mucus contributes to the performance of the most important functions of the reproductive system. The presence of certain disorders is diagnosed in the early stages of development by the state of the discharge.

Leucorrhoea from the vagina is considered a physiological norm, which is caused by some features of the woman’s reproductive system.The cervical canal of the uterus, receptors in the vaginal walls secrete mucus, which can perform different functions. One of them is the protective function. With the appearance of leucorrhoea modified in color and composition, the development of gynecological pathology can be suspected.

If you suspect a disease, you need to contact the “Diamed-Express” medical center, where you can get diagnostics of female diseases from qualified specialists.

Normal vaginal secretions are produced from puberty in all women of reproductive age.In virgins, vaginal discharge is a normal physiological condition that has nothing to do with the onset of sexual activity. Normal discharge consists of:

• mucus produced by the cells of the cervical canal;
• the minimum number of cells of uterine mucus, excess lymph and plasma;
• vaginal microflora, including opportunistic microbes;
• minimum leukocyte count.

In addition to protection, leucorrhoea sanitizes the vagina, maintains the desired level of microflora, moisturizes the walls of the vagina during intercourse.

In a healthy woman, vaginal leucorrhoea is transparent, does not contain foreign inclusions. The appearance of white discharge is considered the norm if it has a uniform consistency and a normal odor. They can appear before the onset of menstruation, in the early gestational periods.

If the appearance of the discharge changes, it is worth suspecting the development of pathological changes or vaginal infections. The leucorrhoea changes its consistency, color, smell. They become cloudy and thick with impurities and an unpleasant odor.

Pathological leucorrhoea and their signs

With pathological leucorrhoea:

• discomfort, burning, itching appear in the groin area;
• discharge may have yellow, green color, sometimes with an admixture of foam;
• The secret may contain white or orange cheesy inclusions that irritate the external genitals;
• the volume of vaginal secretion increases, a specific herring smell appears;
• profuse yellow discharge appears, combined with pain during urination;
• Vaginal secretions can be thick, contain impurities of pus, blood, and have an unpleasant odor.

Pathology includes the presence of bloody discharge from the cervical canal, appearing in the intervals between menstruation. Vaginal secretions with an unpleasant odor and discoloration may indicate candidiasis, trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis, etc.

The pathogen of pathology affects the nature of the change in leucorrhoea. When:

• chlamydia, the secret from the vagina is transparent and foaming;
• bacterial vaginosis, the discharge becomes gray and a strong fishy odor;
• For thrush, thick mucus, like cottage cheese, causing itching and swelling of the genitals;
• Trichomoniasis discharge sticky and yellow, causing itching, swelling, hyperemia of the genitals;
• cervicitis, vaginitis, inflammation of the ovaries, the discharge is green.

The following can also affect the change in the type and composition of the discharge: means of intimate hygiene of poor quality, regular sanitation of the vagina, leading to a violation of the native microflora, a sedentary lifestyle, taking oral contraception for a long time, etc. whitened?

The presence of yellow leucorrhoea with an increase in their volume, itching, burning of the genitals and mucous membranes, pain during urination may indicate the development of infections such as trichomoniasis, vaginitis and serve as a reason to see a doctor.

Gray leucorrhoea appears when serous fluid accumulates in the uterine cavity.

Green cloudy discharge occurs with a bacterial infection that affects the uterus with appendages. Green leucorrhoea is often accompanied by gonorrhea.

Brown bloody discharge from the neck is considered the most dangerous, since it can be a harbinger of severe bleeding, in the presence of neoplasms, indicate the onset of menopause, etc. which can be passed in the medical center “Diamed-express”.After examination and identification of the cause of the pathology, here you can undergo effective treatment, which is carried out by qualified specialists. You can sign up for the center by calling: (044) 428 30 05, (044) 221 54 87, (063) 693 15 45, (067) 232 60 58.

Vaginal odor: types, tips and hygiene

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The vagina has a unique scent. Some women may be embarrassed about their vagina smell, but for a healthy vagina, a slight odor is normal. However, this smell can change if you have infections or other health problems.

Nutrition, health, and other factors can affect the natural vaginal odor. Many products offer to “improve” vaginal odor, but this is neither medically necessary nor safe.

In fact, it can lead to infections that can cause or worsen bad odor.

In this article, we explore strategies to safely reduce vaginal odor and address any underlying medical problems.

Negative vaginal odor can lead to problems with self-esteem and body perception.

However, a slight musky odor from the vagina is normal.

This smell changes with hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause and the menstrual cycle.A light smell is not a cause for concern.

However, women with a different vaginal odor may wish to consult a doctor.

These odors are discussed in more detail in the following sections.

Fishy smell from the vagina

When certain factors affect the complex chemistry of the vagina, harmful bacteria can grow uncontrollably, creating a fishy smell.

Bacterial vaginosis can have this effect. It is the most common vaginal infection among women aged 15–44 years.

Some women with bacterial vaginosis may experience other symptoms, such as itching or burning. It may look like a yeast infection. However, for many, the fishy smell is the only symptom.

Prescription antibiotics can help treat this infection, and adopting certain healthy habits can reduce the risk of re-infection. These include:

• Avoid douching: They can affect the delicate pH balance of the vagina.
• Do not use perfumed or perfumed products in or around the vagina: Perfume and other products such as scented tampons can alter the chemistry of the vagina and cause bacterial vaginosis.
• Sex partner restriction and safer sex practices: Although bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), having multiple sex partners can affect the bacterial balance of the vagina, potentially causing bacterial vaginosis.

Sweet or beery vaginal odor

Overgrowth of yeast in the vagina can cause a sweet smell like honey or cookies. The vagina can also smell like beer, flour, or bread. It can also smell sour at times.

Severe burning, itching, or dryness usually accompanies yeast infections. These symptoms get worse over time. Some females may also notice a discharge that resembles cottage cheese.

These conditions are treatable with over-the-counter medications.However, women who have not previously had a yeast infection should consult a doctor to rule out other causes.

Many of the same measures that can prevent bacterial vaginosis, such as avoiding flavored foods and never douching, are also effective in preventing yeast overgrowth.

Other strategies include:

• Taking antibiotics only when needed: In some women, antibiotics can kill beneficial vaginal bacteria by causing vaginal yeast to grow.
• Do not have oral sex with people who have thrush in the mouth: People can get thrush through mouth to genital contact.
• Keeping the vagina relatively dry: Because yeast grows most rapidly in a humid environment, it is important to avoid getting moisture into the vagina after brushing. Remove your towel after bathing or showering, and do not sit in wet swimwear or underwear.

Other odors

The hormonal changes that occur during menopause can alter vaginal odor and cause vaginal dryness.

Some STIs can also change vaginal odor, especially trichomoniasis.

Women should consult a doctor about any noticeable changes in vaginal odor, especially if the odor is strong or unpleasant. However, they should not use perfume to mask the smell.

The following sections list some tips for preventing vaginal odor.

Safe and gentle vaginal hygiene practices can help reduce vaginal odor.Here are some tips:

wiping the vagina from front to back, as this prevents faeces from entering the vagina

• urinating immediately after intercourse
• using gentle unscented soap only on the vulva
• changing underwear daily or when your underwear is sweaty or contaminated
• Washing underwear with odorless products
• Showering after perspiration, as accumulated sweat can increase vaginal odor
• If an unpleasant odor occurs, rinsing the vulva with water
• using a washcloth between showers to gently wipe the area

9000 Inserting soap into the vagina can affect the pH of the vagina, which can lead to infections and unpleasant odors.

Some women may notice a stronger vaginal odor during their period. Hormonal changes can cause an odor similar to that of iron or ammonia. Some menstrual products can trap odor, making this effect worse.

To reduce vaginal odor during menstruation, try using internal products. Moisture in maxi pads and reusable fabric pads can contribute to odor. Sitting on a wet pillow can also cause infection.

It is also important to change your menstrual products frequently.

Some people notice a strong fishy odor immediately after intercourse, which is a sign of bacterial vaginosis; others may notice a less distinct odor.

Sometimes semen interacts with vaginal fluid, causing vaginal odor. Some lubricants can also affect vaginal pH, which can affect odor.

People can take the following steps after vaginal intercourse to reduce odor:

• Use a condom to prevent contact between semen and vaginal fluids.
• Flush the vulva with water. Doctors do not recommend douching.
• Avoid the use of flavored or flavored lubricants.

Probiotics support healthy bacteria throughout the body, including the vagina. They can also help prevent certain vaginal infections, especially yeast infections.

Probiotics can reduce the risk of vaginal odor as they help restore normal vaginal pH.

Clothes can trap fluids and substances around the vagina, including:

• sweat
• dead skin
• sperm excretion
• from previous intercourse

Very tight-fitting clothes, including some corrective clothing, often responds Feces entering the vagina can cause infections and odors, so it is important to avoid clothing that contributes to their spread.This also applies to tight-fitting underwear.

Breathable cotton is the best choice for those who are worried about vaginal odor as it is less likely to hold moisture close to the vagina. This makes it difficult for bacteria and other sources of odor to build up and produce a pungent odor.

Eating sugary foods can cause overgrowth of yeast, which can increase vaginal odor.

There are no studies available to support the use of any particular food to change vaginal odor.However, some anecdotal evidence suggests that eating sweet-smelling foods like watermelon, apple, and celery can help.

Females should also try to drink plenty of water. Keeping well hydrated prevents bacterial growth. It can also prevent irregular sweat odor, which results in less pronounced vaginal odor.

Read the Spanish article here.

ODOR REDUCTION STORE

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Can semen cause an unpleasant odor in the vagina after sex? | Vaginal odor

What should the vagina smell like?

To answer ashley73242, first, it is important to understand what a “normal” vaginal odor is.A healthy vagina is never odorless. It is completely normal for your vagina to have your own natural odor.

Your vagina is a carefully balanced ecosystem that is usually home to a community of “good” bacteria. One of the main bacteria is called Lactobacillus and is similar to the one found in live yoghurts. Instead of its home, Lactobacillus produces lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide.This keeps the vaginal pH in the optimal range of 3.5-4.5. These acidic conditions act as a disinfectant and discourage infections with less desirable bacteria. It is these naturally occurring bacteria that can contribute to natural vaginal odor.

Vaginal odor and sex

As in the armpits, there are many sweat glands in the groin. Genital sweating during exercise and sexual activity is normal and can contribute to more pronounced vaginal odor.

If you notice a strong vaginal odor after sex that is more than sweaty genitals, you may have an infection called bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV occurs when the balance in this vital ecosystem of the vagina is disturbed, allowing a bacterium called Gardnerella vaginosis to thrive. The infection causes a thin, gray discharge with a fishy odor that becomes more pungent upon contact with semen. Your therapist can help diagnose this and prescribe treatment.

Is that exactly me?

Sperm or “semen” is usually a white or gray liquid that carries semen. Has a slight chlorine odor due to alkaline substances. With sexually transmitted infections, the semen may turn yellow or green and may have an unpleasant odor. This means that semen can be a potential cause of unpleasant vaginal odor after sex.

After a man ejaculates into the vagina, most of the semen will ooze out or dry out.It will definitely not “rot” inside you. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ and any remaining sperm will be expelled from the body through the female’s discharge. Sperm can be stored in the vagina for a maximum of five days.

Other culprits for odor

Other factors can affect vaginal odor, but that does not mean there is something wrong with your hygiene or vaginal health. This may include:

Hormonal changes

Vaginal odor may vary depending on your menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause.

Medications

Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills and antihistamines, can dry out your vagina and change its odor.

Diet

Mostly anecdotal evidence suggests that vaginal odor can be altered by certain foods such as garlic, onions, and strong spices.

Other causes of unusual vaginal odor, especially if accompanied by symptoms such as vaginal itching or irritation or changes in discharge, may require investigation with your GP.Possible reasons include:

The dangers of over-brushing

Ashley 73242 was right when she mentioned that “douching” is bad for the vagina.

We are often bombarded with advertisements for feminine hygiene products encouraging you to save your vagina. clean and smelling of flowers. This can be a dangerous signal to women that the vagina is unhygienic and needs regular cleaning. Both are nonsense.

Your vagina is self-cleaning and the use of feminine hygiene products can affect your natural microbiome, leaving you more prone to vaginal infections (and associated odors). A recent study found that women who use feminine hygiene products or douching are more likely to develop BV, yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections, and UTIs.

Avoid all expensive (and sometimes harmful) foods and just follow these tips to keep your vagina healthy:

• Wipe from front to back when you go to the toilet.
• Wash the outside of your vagina with water or mild soap when you shower.
• Avoid harsh or irritating soaps.
• Do not douche.
• Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear.
• During your period, change your tampons and pads every few hours.

Embarrassing vaginal odor? It could be bacterial vaginosis – Health Fundamentals from the Cleveland Clinic

This is one of those topics that is so taboo that you might be ashamed to talk to your doctor about it. But there is a chance that your gynecologist can help you!

The Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Politics

So do not hesitate to mention the unusual vaginal odor that makes you shy or interferes with enjoying intimate moments.

Your vagina naturally has a faint odor. But a strong smell, which many women call “fishy”, can be a sign of infection.

The culprit Probable bacterial vaginosis (BV).It is a common vaginal infection that rarely causes physical discomfort. But the emotional discomfort you may experience is very painful.

And, surprisingly, the first thing you need to do to neutralize the bad smell is more likely to make the problem worse. That’s right – douching or over-the-counter sprays won’t do anything about the infection.

What is bacterial vaginosis and what is not?

BV is usually not serious.Its distinguishing feature is vaginal discharge that is off-white or grayish in color with an unpleasant odor.

But this can cause non-medical problems. “Education is key because BV can cause many emotional and psychological distress,” says Obstetrician-Gynecologist and Infectious Disease Specialist Oluwatosin Goje, M. D. – for example, by making you feel sexually unwanted or shy.

BV often accompanies an active sex life, but it is not a sexually transmitted disease. Bacteria are a natural part of the vagina, but with BV, something is upsetting the normal balance. There is an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria, and the “good” (protective) bacteria are suppressed or cannot keep up with them.

BV affects almost 30% of women of childbearing age. But it can happen in women of any age.

Those who have multiple sexual partners (or partners with multiple partners), as well as those who do not have sex for a while and then resume active sex life, are at greater risk, says Dr. Goje.

The smell that accompanies BV is often strongest after sex or during menstruation. But between half and three quarters of women with BV have no symptoms.

“Your doctor can diagnose BV by noticing a slight odor or discharge during a routine wellness visit,” says Dr. Goje.

Is it worth treating?

Your doctor can help you choose the best course of action after diagnosis. If treatment is needed, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics in the form of tablets, vaginal gel, or ointment.

However, because antibiotics can cause stomach upset and other side effects, your doctor may not recommend treatment unless the symptoms are of concern.

In the meantime, you should keep the area clean, but avoid scented soaps and douching, which can upset the pH balance of your vagina.

Except: BV may increase the risk of premature birth. Dr. Goje says pregnant women are usually advised by doctors to treat the infection, even if it is not causing symptoms.

Dr. Goje notes that others can get infected from you. “You can pass BV to your partner, but to date the CDC does not recommend partner treatment,” she says.

He returned.

Now what?

Even with medication, BV often recurs.

“I tell my patients that 20 to 30% of women will return in three months with BV, and 50% in 12 months,” says Dr. Goje.

For women in monogamous relationships (who cannot use condoms regularly), she recommends using condoms for three or four months to break the bacteria cycle.

She advises against using feminine hygiene products such as douches, scented creams or deodorants, as they actually increase the risk of BV infection due to good bacteria.

Taking probiotics and consuming yogurt with “live and active cultures” can help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina, she says.

And, she adds, because BV has symptoms similar to of other infections, it is recommended that you see your doctor if you think you have any type of vaginal infection.

Abnormal vaginal odor: causes, diagnosis and treatment

What to expect on this page

Mild vaginal odor is normal and may become more noticeable on certain days of the menstrual cycle or immediately after sex. Certain foods (spices, coffee, onions) can also change the smell of vaginal fluids. However, sometimes vaginal odor can be a warning sign of a serious health problem, especially when accompanied by other signs and symptoms.

In this article, we have summarized the possible causes of abnormal vaginal odor, ranging from minor to potentially fatal.

You will also learn:

• Signs and symptoms of various conditions that can cause abnormal vaginal odor
• How it smells (depending on the cause)
• How soon will it develop
• When to see a doctor
• How to reduce the odor at home
• When Your partner needs treatment
• How serious can it be

Causes of abnormal vaginal odor

An unusual vaginal odor can be caused by many different reasons.The reason can be very simple – poor hygiene, douching, vaginal deodorant, or sweating.

Sometimes it is the result of a more serious health condition, such as certain genital infections or cancer. Chlamydia and gonorrhea usually do not cause abnormal vaginal odor.

Most common causes

Abnormal vaginal odor is usually caused by one of the following:

• Bacterial vaginosis (most women with symptoms have an abnormal vaginal odor)
• Trichomoniasis (50% of symptomatic women have abnormal vaginal odor)

In rare cases, abnormal vaginal odor may be the result of a yeast infection or cancer of the vagina or cervix.

The table below lists the most common signs and symptoms of each causative factor to help you distinguish between possible causes.

What abnormal smell

from the vagina depends on the condition that caused it.

The table below describes the general characteristics of vaginal odor for each condition.

3 More recognizable by fish

3