The two most common vaginal infections are yeast and BV (bacterial vaginosis), both of which are caused by imbalances among the “microorganisms” typically populating the vaginal flora. In a yeast infection, the yeast populations grow quickly out of control while in a BV situation, the amount of unhealthy bacteria increases until there are more “bad” bacteria than “good.” Recognizable symptoms are often the end result of such imbalances. Typical yeast infection symptoms include: a white cottage cheese like discharge, vaginal itching, burning and sometimes swelling of the vaginal tissues. BV imbalance may cause: a grayish discharge, a foul “fishy” odor and occasionally burning in the vagina. However about 50 percent of the time, BV triggers no noticeable symptoms at all.

So what do you do in a situation that’s not normal? If this is the first time any of these symptoms has occurred, it is best to see your health care practitioner for an evaluation and definitive diagnosis. However, if you have been previously diagnosed and recognize your symptoms when they recur, over the counter treatment is a sound approach. Keep in mind, however, that if your symptoms do not resolve after OTC treatment, a doctor consultation is recommended.

The goal for treating either yeast infection or BV is to restore the delicate balance of good bacteria in the vagina back to normal and resolve the symptoms. However, it’s important to know that even after successful treatment, all the yeast or “bad” BV bacteria are not gone. They will continue to coexist inside the vagina with the good bacteria, but in much smaller and healthier numbers.

• Avoid use of perfumed feminine soaps or sprays
• Douching is to be avoided or restricted to only once monthly after a menstrual period if needed (use vinegar & water preparation)
• Wear all cotton underwear
• Increase fiber in diet, reduce intake of white sugar and flour products
• Avoid colored toilet paper

So these are the basics of having a healthy vagina. Remember the vagina is a self-regulating system, so it doesn’t require a lot of ongoing maintenance to keep it healthy. If you’re not bombarding it with perfumed products, and you’re eating a healthy diet and getting adequate rest, it has a much better chance of remaining healthy and care free!

A healthy vagina produces secretions to cleanse and regulate itself. These secretions are normal vaginal discharge. All women have some vaginal discharge but the amount and appearance can change throughout the menstrual cycle. Normal discharge may appear clear, cloudy white and/or yellowish when dry on clothing. At times it may be thin and stringy. Many women state there is a noticeable “scent” or odor to their discharge, particularly when sexually aroused. Other women are not bothered by this scent. There are many things that can affect the amount and consistency of normal vaginal discharge with no need to be alarmed. They are: menstrual cycles, emotional stress, nutritional status, pregnancy, medications (including birth control pills) and sexual arousal.

There are many factors that can cause the pH to rise higher than 4.5 and temporarily throw off the delicate balance of the normal flora inside the vagina.

They are:

• Menstruation
• Tampons
• Intercourse
• Douching and cleansing agents
• Menopause or pregnancy
• Hormone fluctuations

Usually the vagina recovers very quickly after the above situations, but there are clues to alert you if the delicate balance has been disturbed and there may be an infection brewing.

Talk to your health care physician if you have any questions about your vaginal health.

The subject of vaginal health is often over looked until something feels amiss. Let’s face it, most women would prefer to avoid talking about the vagina, and any information given in health class about this mysterious place in a woman’s body is quickly forgotten once class is over. Next time you talk to your doctor, make sure to discuss vaginal health. Take the opportunity to ask questions to better understand how you can keep your whole body healthy.

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