Vaginal Issues

What are Vaginal Issues?

Vaginal health is an important aspect of overall well-being but is often an area women feel uncomfortable talking about. Vaginal situations can range from mild irritations to more acute problems that may impact a woman's sexual, reproductive, and emotional health. If you experience symptoms like irritations, pain, or unusual discharge, you must learn what it can signal and what treatment options exist. 

Common Vaginal Issues

The vagina is a self-regulating part of the female reproductive system. It can experience various health concerns. Most vaginal issues, such as dryness, discomfort, irritation, unusual discharge and various infections are treatable. Understanding the symptoms is the first step to treat vaginal issues. A few of the common vaginal infections that occur are:

Vaginal Infections 

• Yeast Infection: Medically known as Candidiasis, this type of infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of Candida fungi. It then leads to a thick white discharge characterised by redness and intense itching. 
• Bacterial Vaginosis: The occurrence of an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota leads to Bacterial Vaginosis(BV). The symptoms include a thin grey discharge, itching, and a fishy odour.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Vaginal infections caused after sexual encounters are termed as Sexually Transmitted Infections. Examples - Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis. The symptoms of this type of vaginal infection include unusual discharge, painful urination, and vaginal irritation. 

Vaginal Odour 

• It is normal to have a mild vaginal odour. When the vaginal odour becomes strong and has a foul nature, it could be likely that a vaginal infection has occurred. 
• The vaginal odour could also be caused due to maintaining poor hygiene, STIs, Bacterial Vaginosis, or excessive douching. 

Vaginal Dryness 

• Vaginal dryness is a common occurrence during menopause. It occurs due to a decreased level of estrogen. 
• It can also occur as an aftereffect of intake of certain medications, breastfeeding, or any other associated medical conditions. 
• The symptoms of vaginal dryness include a burning sensation, discomfort, itching and painful intercourse. 

Dyspareunia

Dyspareunia is a medical condition which results in pain during intercourse. It can be caused due other vaginal infections, endometriosis, vaginal dryness, or due to psychological factors. 

Vaginal Irritation & Itching

• The reason for vaginal irritation and itching is due to vaginal infection. 
• It can also be caused by using tight clothes and soaps that are harsh in their composition. 
• Vaginal irritation and itching can also be caused due to hormonal changes. 
• The symptoms of this condition include eczema and lichen sclerosis. 

Irregular Discharge

• Throughout the menstrual cycle, there is variation in the process of healthy vaginal discharge. 
• The presence of foul-smelling discharge, which can be yellow or light green, can indicate the occurrence of vaginal infections. 

Causes of Vaginal Discomfort

Suffering from vaginal discomfort is quite common among women. Many of them have suffered it at some point in their life. Some of these cases may be mild and be easily treated. Those vaginal issues cases that are severe need an in-depth medical examination and treatment as per the diagnosis of the gynaecologist. Several factors lead to the causes of vaginal discomfort. They include:

• Poor Hygiene: Maintaining poor hygiene can lead to vaginal discomfort.
• Excessive Douching: When excessive douching is done, it leads to the disruption in the natural vaginal flora. 
• Hormonal Changes: Changes in the body due to hormonal changes can lead to vaginal discomfort. Conditions include pregnancy, menopause, and the use of birth control pills. 
• Use of Medications: Due to the use of certain medications, vaginal discomfort can be caused. These medications can kill the bacteria that have a positive effect on the body and lead to yeast overgrowth. 
• Unprotected Sex: Unprotected sex leads to bacterial imbalances and the risk of STIs that ultimately causes vaginal discomfort. 

Treatment for Vaginal Itching

Visiting your gynaecologist is essential if there are signs of vaginal infections, especially if it is happening for a longer period or is repetitive. The doctor will establish the cause by conducting urine tests, pelvic exams, and vaginal swabs and cultures. The treatment for vaginal itching would include:

• For Yeast Infections: Oral medications (fluconazole) or anti-fungal creams. 
• For Bacterial Infections: Antibiotics. Example: Clindamycin, Metronidazole.
• For STIs: Antibiotics of antivirals depending on the type of medical condition. 
• For Vaginal Dryness: Vaginal moisturisers, lubricants, and estrogen creams
• For Irritation & Itching: Anti-itching creams and shifting to hypoallergenic products.

When to See a Gynecologist 

It becomes a necessity to see a gynaecologist when the body undergoes vaginal issues. Below are the conditions mentioned when to see a gynaecologist.

• Itching and a burning sensation in the vaginal area
• Pain during intercourse
• Frequent UTIs
• Painful Urination
• Unusual discharge
• Pain in the lower abdomen and vagina
• Any formation of lumps, warts, or sores on the vagina.

You can experience world-class healthcare services at Apollo Spectra Hospitals. It is where expert care combines with advanced technology to give our patients the best services and treatment. We ensure personalised attention to each of our patients for their faster recovery. Take your first step towards your well-being and better health by booking a consultation with us today. You can visit our website or call us now!