Vaginal infections may happen when germs such as bacteria or viruses get into the vagina through the exchange of body fluids or through a break in the skin. Having sex, taking strong antibiotics for a long time, stress and the use of harsh soaps can cause vaginal infections. Washing the vagina after sex may not always help prevent infections. So protect yourself during sex and, when washing the area, stick to milder and unscented soaps or intimate wash.
Vaginal Yeast Infection: What is it?
A common sign that a yeast infection is present is when white discharge is observed to come out of the vagina. This is not the white discharge you usually see in between menses. The discharge you may notice in a yeast infection may be greater in amount. A yeast infection is caused by a fungus called Candida. Another name for a yeast infection is Candidiasis. Just like Lactobacilli, Candida is also part of the vagina’s normal little world. When heat, sweat, medications and stress destroy this balance, the Candida organisms can increase in number and cause an infection.
Vaginal Infection: How Would You Know?
If you have any of these, do not wait for things to get worse. Get yourself an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
Recurrent vaginal infections for the past few months: Should a woman be worried?
Vaginal infections that keep coming back even after treatment need a doctor’s assessment. It may not really be serious and may not be causing too much discomfort but it is best that you go see a doctor anyway. Recurrent vaginal infections may warn you of high blood sugar levels. Diabetes increases your chance of getting vaginal infections. It is a condition wherein your body may not readily absorb the sugar present in your blood. If you have been gaining weight lately, your doctor may advise you to improve your diet and start losing weight. Your doctor may also perform a pelvic examination to get some samples from your cervix and vagina to check the presence of organisms that may be causing the infection. You may be started on the right medications once the organism or bacteria have been identified.
