What is normal for the vagina?
The vagina has no true glands. Its secretions come from the uterus, cervix, Bartholin’s Gland and vaginal wall lining. The normal discharge is transparent or cloudy white and somewhat filmy. Generally, the discharge has little odor and causes no irritation. Every woman has some vaginal discharge, but women vary in the amount and consistency of the discharge. Sexual activity, age, the time of the menstrual cycle, general health and nutrition may cause variations in the vaginal discharge. The vagina of a healthy women contains various organisms (including bacteria) which are necessary to keep the vagina healthy.
What is a vaginal infection?
When the normal balance of these organisms in the vagina is upset, one or more "resident" organisms can multiply out of their usual proportions resulting in an abnormal vaginal discharge. If you notice a change in the color, quantity, or odor of your usual discharge and/or develop itching, consult your health care provider. Not all itching indicates the presence of infection; sometimes breakdown of the vulvar skin can mimic a vaginal infection.
What is bacterial vaginosis and vaginitis?
There are a variety of terms used to indicate problems in the vulvovaginal area. The "itis" in vaginitis indicates an inflammation (redness and swelling) of the tissues of the vagina. Trichomoniasis and yeast infections are two common causes of vaginitis. Bacterial vaginosis also results in infection but not in inflamed cells.
Is a vaginal infection serious?
Vaginal infections are generally not very serious. One out of every two women will have a vaginal infection at least once in her life. Most will suffer nothing worse than a temporary annoyance.
What causes a vaginal infection?
Three major infecting organisms--bacteria, trichomonas, and monilia (yeast) cause vaginal infections. There are other types of infections of the vagina, including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), but usually when health care providers say you have a vaginal infection they are referring to one of the above. Chemicals in commercial douches, vaginal sprays, and spermicidal foams, gels, or condoms can sometimes cause a "noninfectious" vaginitis. Certain factors such as poor diet, lack of sleep, increased stress, oral antibiotics, or presence of another disease (such as diabetes) or infection may also make the vagina more susceptible to infection. Intercourse without enough lubrication and tight fitting clothing or damp/wet clothing may irritate the vagina and open a pathway to infection.
How do I know if I have a vaginal infection?
Now that medications to treat yeast infections are available over-the-counter, women may be able to treat their own symptoms. However, the symptoms of vaginal discharge and itching are often signs of other health problems. It is essential that you know what the abnormal discharge means before you self medicate. Irritation or persistent deviation in color (normal discharge is clear or slightly milky, and often yellows when dry), odor or consistency should always be checked by a health care provider.
How can I protect myself from getting a vaginal infection?
Minimize the chances of getting a recurrence of your infection by completing all of your medication.
Follow the rules of good hygiene:
- Wear clean underwear. Some infectious organisms thrive in hot, moist environments, especially those created by nylon panties, tight jeans, wet bathing suits, and panty hose. So, if you're troubled by recurrent vaginal infections you may want to wear cotton underwear. Skirts and looser pants may also be advisable. Also, change sanitary pads often when menstruating.
- Avoid the problem of getting bacteria from your rectum into your vagina by always wiping front to back after a bowel movement.
- Do not use commercial douches, deodorant tampons, or other perfumed products that touch the vulvovaginal area. (Douches are not necessary for healthy hygiene).
- If you suspect a vaginal infection, avoid sex until your problem can be diagnosed and treated.
- Make sure your partner does not have a discharge or sores in the genital area.
- If you are sexually active with men, always use a condom to lessen the risks of sexually transmitted diseases.
- If anal intercourse is followed by vaginal intercourse, always change condoms in between.