Vaginal infections are common—I see them all the time as an ob-gyn. Unusual discharge and itching can tell you something’s not quite right down there.
The good news is that most vaginal infections are easily treatable, and sometimes preventable. Here’s what you should know about these infections.
First things first: It’s normal to have some vaginal discharge (liquid that comes out of the vagina). Normal discharge is clear or white and doesn’t have a strong odor.
You may notice your vaginal discharge becomes thicker and heavier in the weeks leading up to your period. This is also normal, and it’s due to the monthly fluctuation of hormones.
Why do we have discharge? The vagina is full of organisms, such as cells, healthy bacteria, and yeast. Discharge helps keep these organisms in balance. It’s how the vagina removes dead cells from the vagina and prevents yeast and bacteria from growing out of control. This keeps the vagina clean and healthy.
A vaginal infection can occur if anything disrupts the natural balance of organisms, or if unhealthy bacteria get into the vagina. This often leads to changes in your vaginal discharge. The discharge may change in color, texture, or smell.
If you notice a change in your discharge, tell your ob-gyn. To figure out the cause, your ob-gyn will want to know a few key things. What does the discharge look like? Does it have a smell to it? Do you have any itching? How long has it been going on? Your ob-gyn may also do a pelvic exam and test a sample of the vaginal discharge.
Here are the most common culprits:
If you experience vaginal discomfort around the time of menopause, you may have a condition called genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), also called vaginal atrophy. This is not an infection, but rather a result of decreasing hormone levels. Your ob-gyn can diagnose GSM and offer treatment to help you feel more comfortable.
BV and yeast infections are more likely to occur in people who are sexually active. That’s because sexual activity can introduce new bacteria into the vagina. But they are not considered STIs, nor are they usually contagious. With BV or a yeast infection, your partner doesn’t need to be treated.
But if you are diagnosed with trichomoniasis or another STI, your partner must also be tested and treated. (Depending on your state’s laws, your ob-gyn may be able to prescribe medication for your partner too.)
That said, it’s wise to avoid sex for about a week while treating any vaginal infection. Not only can sex be uncomfortable, but it can interfere with treatments.
Once you’ve had a yeast infection, it’s usually easy to recognize, self-diagnose, and treat future infections at home. You can buy over-the-counter treatments containing the medication miconazole. These products come in the form of creams or suppositories that you insert into your vagina.
If you’re unsure whether you have a yeast infection or if your symptoms don’t improve within 72 hours, give your ob-gyn a call.
For other types of infections, you’re going to need a prescription antibiotic. These medications can be applied topically (in the vagina) or taken orally. Go-to antibiotics for vaginal infections include metronidazole and clindamycin. If one treatment doesn’t do the trick, there are other options you can try. (Note: Stay away from alcohol while taking metronidazole, as the combination of the two can cause severe nausea and vomiting.)
Some people are more likely to get vaginal infections, either because unhealthy bacteria or yeast grow more easily in their bodies, or their systems have a harder time fighting off infection. This includes people with diabetes mellitus, people who are obese, and people who have weakened immune systems.
If you have five or more cases of the same infection in a year, ask your ob-gyn about suppression treatment. Suppression treatment involves multiple doses of a cream, gel, or pill, depending on the type of infection. After a few months of such treatment, many people find their infections are reduced, if not eliminated.
Preventing vaginal infections comes down to preserving the delicate balance of organisms in your vagina. Here are a few tips you can try.
Despite your best efforts, you may not be able to prevent all vaginal infections. Most women will have at least one vaginal infection at some point in their life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, get in touch with your ob-gyn. They’ll be ready to diagnose and treat the problem—so you can get back to feeling like yourself.
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