Prevention of Vaginal Infections

An infection can occur because of the development of bacteria, fungus, or pathogens that might alter the vaginal ecosystem, generating a potential damage in the vagina. Some symptoms of a vaginal infection are pain, difficulty urinating, or unusual odor. These occur because of the proliferations of microorganisms inside the vagina. They usually take place inside the vagina, however they can be develop in the uterus with acute and serious complications.

The effects of a vaginal infection are wide. From typical vaginitis to septic shock, they can evolve into an inflammation of the endometrial tract, the fallopian tubes, or inflammation of the pelvis.

Types of Vaginal infections

Typically the diagnosis is made through fluid analysis and their characteristics. In any woman they can be categorized by the following types:

• Bacterial Vaginitis – the most common type of vaginal infection. Symptoms are itching, color changes in discharge, odor in vaginal fluid, and post-coitus bad odor, it can also be asymptomatic. Caused by bacteria.

• Candida or yeast – Symptoms include burning or itching sensation, redness of the vulva, and pain and burning with urinating. This infection is recognizable for white discharge with fetid odor. Caused by fungus.

• Trichomoniasis – Sexual transmitted disease, recognizable by white or yellowish discharge and itching. Very dangerous because it can affect the cervix.

What produces an infection?

There are several things that might produce a vaginal infection, usually they are produced by fungus, trichomoniasis, vaginitis, or can be sexually transmitted diseases. Another factor that can contribute to the rise of a vaginal infection are allergies or irritation caused by spermicides, vaginal hygiene products, soaps, scented tampons, and detergents.

Hormonal changes during puberty, adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause can trigger a vaginal infection, or can become a risk factor for infection. Sexual intercourse without vaginal lubrication can increase vulnerability to these infections. More risk factors are:

miscarriages, surgical interventions, sexual intercourse without protection, pregnancy, hormonal treatments, antibiotics, poor hygiene, vaginal douche, multiple sex partners, and stress.

Prevention of vaginal infection

If you experience any of these symptoms you should visit your doctor immediately as it can be affecting your inner organs.

• Good hygiene

• Wash genitals gently with soap and water every day to keep moisture away

• Don’t use vaginal douches, gel, or antiseptic agents

• Don’t use scented tampons or vaginal deodorant

• Do not wear tight or wet clothes

• Wear cotton clothes, try to avoid nylon pants

• If you use sex toys wash thoroughly before and after use

• Clean your genitals before and after intercourse

Sources

Bonet, R & Garrote, A (2005) Higiene de la zona íntima femenina, más allá de la limpieza. Dermofarmacia (24): 76-80

Cires, M; Freijoso, E; Silva, L; Vergara, F; Cutié, E; Ortega, M; Sanso, F; Martínes, W & LAntero, M (2003) Guía para la práctica clínica de las infecciones vaginales. Rev Cubana de Farmacia (1):38-52

Flores-Paz, R; Rivera, S; García, E; Arriaga, M (2003) Etiología de la infección cérvico vaginal en pacientes del hospital Juárez de México. Salud Pública (45): 694-69

Ramírez, E (2000) Hábitos y prácticas de higiene genital de las pacientes que visitan la consulta ginecológica del centro de Salud Evangelina Rodríguez del INTEC. Rev Ciencia y Sociedad (1): 62-69

Rechkemmer, E; García-Hjarles, M (1999) Prevalencia de vaginitis y vaginosis bacteriana en pacientes con flujo vaginal anormal en el Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza. Rev Med Hered. (10):144-150