Have you ever had your vagina get dry? Or sometimes it has a different odor than the one you’re used to? If you have experienced this, the chances are highly likely that you may have either a yeast infection or Bacterial Vaginosis.
Bacterial Vaginosis and yeast infections are very common infections in women as they can be triggered by a lot of things. We therefore must take utmost care of our bodies, this includes watching what we eat, products we use on our bodies and most importantly, how to properly wash our bodies in ways that will not be harmful to us. Often women feel ashamed of this because they feel it reflects how they’ve been misbehaving sexually. But we need to understand that it is highly normal to occasionally or even frequently get yeast infections. For some, the constant occurrence of yeast infection can be the only indicator that one may have diabetes. So, you see, these are just normal things to go through and they can help find out if there’s a bigger problem that doctors may not be aware of.
YEAST INFECTION
It is often caused by fungus candida albicans. The vagina naturally contains a balanced number of bacteria and fungus, these help to keep it clean and free from infections. However, if the balance is disrupted, it causes the fungus to overgrow hence causing a yeast infection as more cells in the vagina get infected and the symptoms start showing. Other causes include: a weak immune system, taking antibiotics, and pregnancy.
SYMPTOMS
-Itching/irritation of the vagina and vulva
-A burning sensation during intercourse or when urinating
-Vaginal pain and soreness
-Thick, white, odorless discharge that looks like cheese
PREVENTION
-Yeast infection can be prevented from reoccurring if you do the following
-Avoid wearing tight fitting underwear
-Wear cotton underwear
-Avoid using scented feminine care products
-Avoid taking hot baths
BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
Is a type of infection caused by the overgrowth of the natural bacteria found in the vagina. BV can be caused by having unprotected sex and douching.
SYMPTOMS
-Thin gray, white or green vaginal discharge
-Fishy vaginal odor
-Vaginal itching
-Burning during urination
PREVENTION
-Minimize vaginal irritation by using unscented feminine products
-Use protection every time one has sexual intercourse (reduce having multiple partners)
-Avoid douching. The vagina has natural agents that help keep it clean.
BV and yeast infections can easily be treated with over the counter medication for yeast infection. This includes tablets, insert cream. However, for BV, one needs to have a doctor’s prescription to get treatment. Now ladies, getting one of these doesn’t mean anything other than the fact that they are natural occurrences. Its nothing to be ashamed.
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