Vaginal discharge and itching are no strange names to many young ladies or women. It is a common topic, sometimes talked about in embarrassed whispers amongst groups of girls and women interested in vaginal care. To these ladies, what is most important is getting answers from their experienced homegirls. For those who want an insight into vaginal itching and discharge, you have made the right stop.
Vaginal discharge, for one, is quite normal. This is because it plays a vital role in cleansing the female reproductive system. However, some vaginal discharge could be a result of infections. Itching is most likely the result of irritation and contact with bacteria. Here, you will discover what causes vaginal discharge and itching and proper vaginal care to help deal with them.
Vaginal discharge
What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge is made from fluid manufactured by glands in the vagina and cervix. The fluids help to cleanse dead cells and bacteria in the vagina. This process helps to prevent infection, keep your vagina clean and foster vaginal care. A normal or healthy discharge is clear, white or milk-like in appearance. However, certain conditions can cause changes in the colour or texture of vaginal discharge.
Types of Abnormal Discharge and Possible Causes
The following are types of abnormal vaginal discharge and what causes them:
- Bloody – Irregular menstrual cycle, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and pelvic pain
- Yellow or cloudy– Gonorrhea, bleeding between periods, and urinary incontinence
- Yellow or greenish with an unpleasant smell – Pain and itching while urinating
- Pink – Shedding of the uterine lining after giving birth
- Thick and cheesy – Yeast infection, swelling around the vagina, and painful sexual intercourse
- White, yellow, and grey – Bacterial vaginosis, burning. itching, redness, and swelling of the vagina
Vaginal itching
What is vaginal itching?
Vaginal itching is a painful sensation in your vagina due to contact with irritating substances when you’ve hit menopause or have infections. Moreover, itching may happen due to sexually transmitted diseases or skin disorders. In some cases, stress or vulvar cancer can cause vaginal itching. In general, vaginal itching is not something to sweat about. However, you should contact your gynaecologist or doctor if the itching is severe.
What causes vaginal itching?
Some of the causes of vaginal itchiness include:
Irritants
Exposing your vagina to harsh chemicals may cause vaginal itching. These chemicals can spur an allergic reaction that may form a rash over parts of the body, including the vagina. Common irritants include soap, sprays, bubble baths, creams, scented toilet paper, detergents, and contraceptives.
Skin diseases
Skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema can cause itching and redness in the vaginal area.
Yeast infection
Yeast is a typical and natural fungus that is present in the vagina. On a normal day, it does not cause problems, but when its growth is unchecked, it can cause an uncomfortable infection resulting in burning, itching, and abnormal discharge. This infection is called a vaginal yeast infection.
Other causes of vaginal itching include bacterial vaginosis, STDs such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia, genital herpes, menopause, stress, and vulvar cancer.
When to see a doctor for vaginal discharge and itching?
It is essential to see a doctor when your itching is repeated and unbearable. After all, itching could disrupt your daily life and could be embarrassing. You should contact your doctor if you experience the following symptoms:
- Blister on your vagina
- Pain in your genital area
- Redness or swelling
- trouble urinating
- Unusual or abnormal vaginal discharge
- Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
Home remedies for vaginal discharge and itching
Although it is essential to visit a doctor to foster care of the vagina or to make sense of symptoms, you can try out these remedies to get better and feel comfortable:
- Avoid scented soaps and lotions
- Use warm water to wash your genital area
- Avoid products like vaginal sprays to promote care of the vagina
- Change out of damp clothing after exercise or swimming
- Wear cotton underwear and change them daily
- Use condoms during sex
- Be sure to wipe from front to back after using the toilet
Vaginal discharge and vaginal itching are common among many women. Although they may not be serious or life-threatening, you must stay on top of your vaginal health by speaking with a doctor on Doctall when you notice symptoms.