Vaginal Discharge & Vaginal Infections - Fast Pain Relief For Bacterial Vaginosis & Vaginal Thrush
Posted: Saturday, May 30, 2009
by Kacycarr
http://www.spotthepimple.com
Can I treat my own vaginal infection? Yes you can however there are things that need to be considered first for any home treatment to be successful in ridding specific infections. Things like"causes" and "severity" will determine if this operation can be undertaken by you. Women on a wide scale treating symptoms of their infection are actually curing it, and there shouldn't be any reason why you can't either. But there is one important issue, and that is you know exactly what infection you are going to treat. Below is a rundown on common vaginal infections to help you determine which you have. Before treatment begins make sure any instructions and advice is provided solely from the pharmacist if using medication purchased over the chemist counter. Although we mention how other women are curing themselves, it is imperative for you to know that every woman varies, and what may work for one may not for the other.
The primary reason given for women wanting to treat their own vaginal infection is due to embarrassment. I cannot stress enough at this point, that you shouldn't be ashamed over this, or embarrassed either. Vaginal infections are perfectly natural conditions that happen to women so you're not alone. If the thought of your GP seeing your bare essentials is the reason for holding you back from seeking help, then you have to get over worrying over this, or come to terms with the possibility of the infection getting worse where you may be left with no choice in baring all. Doctors on a daily basis treat women with gynaecology problems, and another vagina to them is all in day's work.
About vaginal infections and symptoms
Inside the vagina certain types of bacteria live which produce acid. This acid helps fight bad bacteria, viruses and fungi that don't usually locate in the vagina. If the acid decreases through an upset of some sort it loses its strength to fight which allows vaginal infection to happen.
Symptoms of a vaginal infection:
- fishy odor
- painful sexual intercourse
- bleeding after sex
- lower abdomen pains
- redness, swelling lumps or blisters
- ulceration of the vulva or anus
- pain when urinating
Definite changes in discharge that cause itchiness and soreness are typical symptoms of vaginal infection. To make an accurate diagnosis your GP will examine the skin around your vagina and/or the lining inside your vagina. A speculum (also used for smear tests) maybe used. A sample of discharge using a swab will be taken and sent on for further testing. You may need to provide a sample of urine. A lot can be found from a urine test.
Thrush
Nearly every woman has the non destructive fungus Candida albicans growing on and in her body. If given reason to alter it can grow greatly, causing thrush (vaginal candidiasis).
Usual causes of thrush:
- pregnancy
- menstruation/periods
- diabetes
- contraceptive pill
- tight clothing
- antibiotics
Most vaginal infections depending on severity respond to an antifungal treatment such as imidazole cream or pessaries, or fluconazole (Diflucan) tablets. Medication as such is available without prescription. In some cases treatment of this sort is not always a success on the first attempt to cure the infection. See your GP who may suggest upping the dose - a longer course of fluconazole tablets.
Help you're self beat thrush
- Wear cotton panties
- Regularly change underwear.
- Use unscented soaps/ feminine sprays
- Don't douche
It is Bacterial vaginosis (BV) we associate chiefly with the unpleasant fishy smell coming from the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis is a result of usual bacteria found in the vagina "Lactobacillus" which is overpowered by others e.g. Gardnerella vaginalis which come in fewer numbers. Vaginal discharge to look at shows up a loose grey with a fishy odor. Sometimes the vagina itches and can cause a burning feeling. It is a type of catch me if you can sort of infection because the symptoms can clear up without treatment and then return. If BV goes untreated it can cause miscarriage, premature labour and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID.)Treatment for Bacterial vaginosis comes in the form of antibiotics, namely metronidazole. This can't be purchased from the chemist It's only available on prescription in cream, gel or tablet form. Once rid of the infection it can however return at a later date. BV is not linked to being sexually transmitted.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is another vaginal condition which is connected to being sexually transmitted. It is caused by a protozoan (parasite) called Trichomonas vaginalis. Vaginal discharge is heavy and foamy, yellowy green and fishy-smelling. Other symptoms of Trichomoniasis are discomfort during sex, vaginal itching, pain when weeing and occasionally stomach pains. As like with Bacterial Vaginosis - antibiotic metronidazole cures up to 95% of women infected with Trichomoniasis. You may be referred to a sexual health clinic by your doctor if this particular infection is diagnosed.
Scientific study states that trichomoniasis can be held accountable for infertility, increased risk of transmission of HIV, premature labour, and low birth-weight in new born babies.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is definitely an infection caused by sexual transmission. Damaging bacterium namely "Chlamydia trachomatis" is the problem. Once this bacterium is transmitted it causes Chlamydia. Its damaging properties destroy the cells of the lining of the cervix and other vaginal tissues. Symptoms are pain when peeing and seeing blood after sexual intercourse. Unlike other common infections it doesn't always create an abnormal discharge.
Gonorrhoea
With Gonorrhoea the culprit bacterium is called "Neisseria gonorrhoeae," which is passed on during sexual intercourse. Chief symptoms of gonorrhoea are vaginal discharge and pain when weeing. In the early stages of the infection it is not unusual to have no symptoms.
Genital Herpes
Genital herpes an infection caused by herpes simplex virus, and once again another vaginal infection passed on during sexual contact. Herpes simplex virus is treatable - lessening the discomfort from its nasty symptoms. Unfortunately the virus can never be rid completely from the body. It tends to lie dormant in the body for the rest of your life. Any repeat episodes of genital herpes, which does happen, are normally milder than the first one. Genital warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) which encourages abnormal cell growth. Bodily contact (skin-to-skin) with an infected person can pass the disease on to you, or you to them. Genital warts are recognized by their appearance which is small round lumps on or around the genitals. Not to be confused with vaginal pimples so have your doctor check you out.
What I find hard to understand is why on earth people allow themselves to go through the agony, pain, anguish and misery that come as part of the package with all venereal diseases is beyond me when there are ways to help prevent them.
Stop VD from happening to you. All it takes is a little common sense to stay healthy. There is no excuse not to practice safe sex and you will only be laughed at trying to give one. Some VD types can kill if left without treatment.
If money is an issue then it shouldn't be as there are many support groups supplying free contraception for those looking to be responsible. Local clinics or your GP can advise you further on this.
Get free condoms from
- Health Departments
- STD Clinics
- Planned Parenthood
- Family Planning Clinics
- Campus Health Centers
- Online (type in Google "Free Condoms"
Did you know when you treat your own vaginal infection you rid vaginal odour at the same time.
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