6 Vaginal Issues Women Should Be Aware Of

Women need to be aware of the various vaginal issues that can arise (some without any warning.) Obviously the anatomy of a woman's body is much more internal than a man's and hygiene as well as prevention are incredibly important to help prevent many of these issues. Here's your guide to your vagina. 

1. Yeast infection: Many women are affects by yeast infections where an intense itching and thick white discharge occurs. Yeast is present in the vagina and the gut but various triggers such as an illness, antibiotic use and even diabetes can lead to a yeast increase. 75% of women will have a yeast infection at some point in their lives. For symptoms, especially the first time, you must visit your doctor to confirm the diagnosis with a swab. For women prone to yeast infections, they should understand the signs and look to over-the-counter antifungal medications which are very safe. 

2. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Women will notice a greyish discharge, strong odor, itching or burning. It's an infection caused by an increase in normal bacteria in the vagina due to a number of possible factors such as a new sexual partner or douching. Confirm your suspicions with a swab and your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. 

3. Vulvodyna: This is a disorder that results in a chronic, painful burning sensation in the genital area. Doctors actually don't know what causes it but it may be triggered by chronic yeast infections, muscle spasms or a genetic predisposition. It can often make sex, sports or even sitting uncomfortable. Sometimes initial vulva pain is caused by skin irritation. Talk to your doctor about lifestyle choices if the pain persists. 

4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: This is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. PCOS may affect as many as 5 million women in the United States and can occur in girls as young as 11 years old.  The cause is unknown but seems to run in families as women with a mother or sister with PCOS are more likely to develop it also.  The main issue is a hormonal imbalance where the ovaries are making more androgens (male hormones such as testosterone) than what normally a woman makes.


5. Endometriosis: This occurs when the tissues that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus. It affects 176 million women and can impair fertility. You'll notice a heavy menstrual cycle, cramping, painful sex and urination as well as bowel movements. Your doctor will look at your history and then perform a  physical exam. Once diagnosed, patients typically try treatments such as hormonal therapies. If treatments don't work, your doctor may try surgery to remove the endometrial tissue. 
 

6. Sexually Transmitted Disease: Think gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis - these infections are contracted through sexual contact with an infected partner. Many of these conditions will cause a sudden change in discharge, blood discharge, painful sex, abdominal pain, sores, rashes and bumps. Be sure to get STI screening every year as well as a regular HIV test.