Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Common Vaginal Infections

It’s your Friendly Health Worker here.
So, we will have a general talk about common Vaginal Infections. These infections may be caused by Hormonal Imbalances, Antibiotic use, Sexual Intercourse, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding.
Note carefully, these factors generally predispose one to Vaginal Infections but some women are more prone to Vaginal Infections than others for no known documented reasons. You should always see your doctor whenever there are signs and symptoms you may have that you are not comfortable with.
These infections include;
Yeast Infections- Caused by Candida species. I think this is the commonest given our penchant for antibiotic abuse. It causes vaginal/vulval itching, redness and thick, creamy discharges. 
Trichomonitis or “Trich’- Caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis and is sexually transmitted. Causes burning, irritation, redness, and swelling of the vulva, with a yellow-gray or greenish vaginal discharge, possibly with a fishy odor. Some women also experience pain during urination.


Bacterial Vaginosis- Caused by the Lactobacilli that are naturally resident in the vagina (Gardnerella species are usually implicated in this case). They only cause infections when there is a change in the pH balance of the vagina causing an overgrowth of the bacteria species.
Chlamydia Vaginitis- Caused by the organism Chlamydia trachomatis. This is sexually transmitted
Non infectious Vaginosis- Caused by sensitivity to irritants like perfumed soaps, douches etc. Treatment is simple. Stop using those products and the skin irritation will go away.
Viral Vaginosis- Caused by viruses like Herpes Simplex group of viruses.
Like I have said repeatedly, when you see a discharge you are not comfortable with, see your doctor for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Never self medicate and never take someone else’s prescription. 
I’ll be back with more on our health, sis. Till then, keep being healthy and God bless you.

Your Friendly Health Worker

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