Having issues with your reproductive health and organs is never easy to deal with, especially when those issues include vaginal infections. Vaginal infections are inflammation processes in the vagina caused by an irregular balance of yeast and bacteria. In this blog post, we will be discussing the different types and signs of vaginal infections, what are the most common vaginal problems, and what would be the possible solutions your gynecological infections specialist can offer you.
Also, if you want to be sure that you are in good hands while dealing with this highly uncomfortable situation, visit our clinic and see why Dr. Leonardo Blachar is one of the best in the Obstetrics and Gynecology fields.
Common Vaginal Problems
To take good care of their reproductive organs, women must have a deeper insight into some common problems that may happen and their first signs. In this blog post, we tried to narrow them down to:
- Sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, chlamydia, and alike are among the most common vaginal problems. The signs that would follow them are genital sores and unusual vaginal discharge.
- Relaxation of the pelvic floor is an issue that happens when the connective tissues and ligaments of the vaginal and uterus walls become relaxed and weakened and cause leakage of urine, lower back pain, constipation, and pain during sexual intercourse.
- Vaginitis or vaginal infections are followed by odor, itching, pain, and vaginal discharge.
- Problems during intercourse, including pain before or after sexual relations, during penetration due to the spasms of the muscles of the vaginal wall, dryness of the vagina, etc., are signs that it might be time to get a more thorough check-up.
- Vaginal cysts, which are clogged pockets of fluid, air, or other material found under the vaginal lining, typically do not have significant symptoms but can be felt and seen as small lumps which may cause pain during sexual intercourse.
What are the Types and Signs of Vaginal Infections?
Fortunately for us, the human body is designed so that it will always give us little hints that something is not functioning as it is supposed to, and vaginal infections are no exception. In order to properly treat the infection once it has occurred, it is crucial to differentiate between the types of vaginal infections. Below you can find some of the most common types of infections and the symptoms which will help you recognize them:
- Yeast infection is the most common type, and it is caused by a fungus called candida which is present in the body, but its overgrowth causes a vaginal infection. The general symptoms are a white, odor-free, thick vaginal discharge, redness of the vulva and vagina, itching, burning sensation, swelling of the labia, and a vaginal rash.
- The second most common type of infection is bacterial vaginosis. It is caused by a decrease in the number of lactobacilli bacteria. There are often no symptoms, but if they are visible, they include a gray-white discharge with a fish-like odor without the itching or redness.
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are STIs (sexually transmitted infections) caused by bacteria. The symptoms are often non-existent, and if they do appear, they are usually visible through vaginal discharge and pain in the lower abdomen and during sexual intercourse. These two infections are problematic because if they are left not treated, they can lead to infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and issues during pregnancy.
- Trichomoniasis, or Trich, is a very common vaginal infection that occurs due to a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis and is transmitted during sexual relations. The symptoms are irritation, redness, green-gray discharge, fishy odor, pain during intercourse, and urination. As with other STIs – if not treated, it can lead to serious issues concerning infertility and pregnancy.
- The HPV virus causes genital warts (human papillomavirus), most commonly spread by sexual relations. They are recognizable by small growths on the individual’s vulva, vagina, anus, or cervix, and they can be itchy, painful, and cause bleeding. Genital warts are considered an STI, which can be cured by vaccination against HPV at an early age.
- Genital herpes is an infection caused by a virus called herpes simplex, and it is transmitted through intercourse. The symptoms can include blisters around the genital area which are very painful and can be followed by flu-like symptoms.
What to Do Next?
Firstly, it is important to remember that, although not all vaginal infections are preventable, there are ways to lower the chances of developing them. Try to wear cotton underwear, use protection during intercourse, and have a regular hygienic routine and regular check-ups with the chosen gynecologist. Also, try to limit the amount of sugar and processed foods intake. Vaginal products such as deodorants and body washes that affect the vaginal pH value and scented period products are not advised.
Many women suffer from vaginal infections, which are connected to sexual relations, an unhealthy diet, internal processes of the body, irregular check-ups, and hygiene of the intimate areas. If the infection has already developed – do not panic. All the mentioned conditions are treatable.
When you recognize the symptoms, there are many over-the-counter and prescription-based treatments that are very efficient in healing the infection. Some of those are:
- antifungal agents, i.e., creams
- tablets
- gels
- probiotics
- antibiotics
- antiviral therapies
A highly recommended step is also to get a specialist’s advice, and usually, within a week or so, the symptoms should wear off, and you should begin to feel better.
Vaginal infections are a well-researched field, and there are many efficient approaches to its treatment, so there is no need to worry too much, although we are aware that the process might be unpleasant.
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Taking care of our reproductive organs and health, in general, should be one of the top priorities of every human being. Being comfortable with our sexual freedom while still taking care of our health is something we all should strive for. Sometimes though, it can be quite challenging to battle issues, such as vaginal infections, which might come our way, which is why Doral Beach Gynecology is here.
To make the process a lot less stressful and a lot more enjoyable, come and visit us and let our experts take care of your reproductive health so you can enjoy life without any unnecessary pressures.