Dealing with an Infected Vagina: The Natural Solution

Let’s face it: the vagina is a sensitive topic for most people no pun intended, and like all parts of the body, its delicate tissues are susceptible to bacterial and viral invaders, any of which can lead to an infected vagina. However, unlike other parts of the body, dealing with an infected vagina can be an awkward, potentially embarrassing trial: this doesn’t have to be the case. First thing to understand is that vaginal infection doesn’t necessarily stem from STDs or bad hygiene, but can come from a variety of sources.

Hormonal changes from drugs, childbirth, or menopause can cause a dry vagina, a depletion of the natural excretions that moisten and lubricate the vaginal walls. The absence of lubrication can lead to slight skin damage during intercourse, which, like any open wound, can lead to infection.

Vaginal yeast infection, the dreaded yeast fungus, can multiply out of control due to pH changes in the vagina caused by soaps or other chemicals, due to antibiotics unbalancing the native flora always present in the vagina, or due to excessive moisture. Any of these conditions can lead to a vaginal yeast infection. Symptoms can include swelling, discharge, oversensitivity, and terrible itching.

All of the above conditions can cause vulvovaginitis, or a general swelling of the tissue of the vulva and vagina. The swollen tissue will be more tender and more easily damaged. This can lead to further infection, foul odor, and the thick whitish or yellowish discharge known as leukorrhea.

Leukorrhea, or colored discharge, is most often caused by a simple imbalance of estrogen in the body. The thick white or clear variety is often free from infection, whereas the yellowish and unpleasant smelling discharge often indicates a vagina infected by STD or other bacteria. A doctor should be consulted whenever this sort of discharge persists.

Embarrassing, unsightly, and certainly uncomfortable to live with, these conditions are luckily treatable. Topical creams, pharmaceuticals, and good hygiene can work to eliminate the vaginal infection. Are you dealing with an infected Vagina?