An effective vaginal health regimen prescribed by your OB/GYN can help keep you infection-free and reduce issues like vaginal dryness and other issues. Maintain proper hygiene, consume foods high in probiotic bacteria (like kefir, drinkable yogurt and cranberry juice) and avoid potential irritation sources like soap, baby wipes, tea tree oil or douches.
Anything that disturbs the pH balance in your vag can lead to infection, including yeast (which causes itching and cottage cheese-like discharge) or bacterial vaginosis.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Many OTC drugs can be used to treat vulvovaginitis. Antifungal medicines may be taken orally as cream, ointment or suppository and come in one-day, three-day and seven-day dosages; popular options are Clotrimazole (Monistat), Miconazole (Yeast-Eeze), Tioconazole (Vagistat) and Butoconazole (Bactrim).
Women suffering from itching below their belt should know that the symptoms of a yeast infection can be alleviated by wearing looser clothing or switching to “breathable” fabrics like cotton. They should also avoid products containing chemical irritants like scented soaps, detergents or feminine hygiene sprays which could contain chemical irritants that aggravate their symptoms.
Vulvovaginitis symptoms that cannot be resolved with over-the-counter medicines include fever, chills, lower back or pelvic pain and foul smelling vaginal discharge – symptoms which should be reported immediately to a gynecologist or primary healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, some women experiencing BV or yeast infections find their symptoms worsen during times of hormonal flux, such as pregnancy, lactation, menopause or menstruation periods.
Self-Diagnosis
Infections of the vulva, such as bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis and trichomonias vaginitis can be difficult to diagnose with only symptoms alone; even experienced healthcare providers cannot make an accurate diagnosis without laboratory testing.
When experiencing new symptoms, take time to use an at-home self-test kit that can identify yeast infections or other conditions. These kits are safe for home use and easy to read, saving you an appointment with your physician.
Women participating in this study conducted in a clinic lavatory stall recorded their symptoms on a Decision-Making Guide and sealed it in an envelope before visiting an advanced practice registered nurse for evaluation. An APRN used various clinical techniques including interview and pelvic exam, wet mount microscopy of vaginal fluid sample analysis, measurement of pH and amines using standard FemExam cards as well as whiff tests as well as urine analysis for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea testing.
Suppression Treatment
Misinformation surrounding vaginal health abounds, from outdated advice passed down from generation to generation to social media posts and product marketing that misinform. Debunking myths surrounding the vulva is more than just about making women less embarrassed; it is key for maintaining optimal health and hygiene.
The vulva is home to an ecosystem composed of yeast and bacteria called the microbiome that contributes to its healthy, moderately acidic pH level of about 3.8. However, a disrupted microbiome due to birth control that blocks sperm, certain shampoos or feminine care products used during pregnancy or cesarean delivery could disrupt this balance, potentially leading to conditions like bacterial vaginosis.
A healthy vulva can also help protect against infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Seeking routine gynecological care – with regular exams including comprehensive testing – ensures any symptoms are promptly identified and addressed as soon as possible. Having regular exams also gives a window into overall health; any hormonal imbalances or health concerns might show themselves here too.
Medical Care
Women should understand how to keep their vulva and vagina healthy; yeast infections, vaginitis and any other symptoms should be taken seriously and addressed as soon as they arise.
Gynecologists are the perfect professionals to identify and treat vaginal issues, such as yeast infections. Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms before inspecting the vulva – including inner and outer lips of labia (lay-bih-uh), urethra opening (yoo-REH-trah).
Use gentle soap or body wash daily to wash your vulva with cotton underwear for reduced irritation and moisture buildup in this area. Thongs or tight-fitting underwear that has added perfume can disrupt natural bacteria in this region, leading to irritation. In addition, practicing safe sex through barrier methods helps prevent spread of STDs or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
