Many women suffer from vaginal issues and are often not willing to discuss their concerns. As many as a third of my patients will have any of a variety of symptoms at some point in their life. These may occur in the beginning of her reproductive life, but may occur during menopause as well.
Symptoms vary from vaginal itching and irritation to odor and might be associated with a vaginal discharge or discomfort with intercourse. If you have discomfort with intercourse over the counter non petroleum based lubricants may be helpful but often an office visit is best. I usually see this concern with my post menopausal patients.
Vaginal discharge by itself does not mean that you have an infection and, in fact, is often normal. Your normal discharge can change during the course of the month and also may be affected by other things like pregnancy, nursing, certain antibiotics (especially penicillins) and obviously infection.
Infection does not mean you’ve contracted a sexually transmitted disease. The most common vaginal infections are bacterial vaginitis (BV) and yeast. Yeast is often easily treated with over the counter medications. BV usually requires an office visit and a prescription. Sometimes, these infections may be recurrent and require prolonged treatments.
There are several things that you can do to prevent these nuisances such as wear loose fitting underclothes; never douche unless instructed by a physician; avoid dyes and scents – particularly scented hygiene products (tampons and pads) and sprays; limit bubble baths, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible and use condoms during intercourse. Adhering to these simple recommendations will protect your normal vaginal “balance” and decrease the odds of experiencing these problems.
If you’ve tried these suggestions, and symptoms, persist don’t panic! Please feel free to call me or one of my colleagues and one of us will see you – often the same day. Enjoy the summer and remember that Kelsey-Seybold Obstetricians and Gynecologists are here to care for all of your needs throughout your life.
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