The vaginal health 101

When it comes to vaginal health, there’s a lot of confusion out there.

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Women are just not taught about it until there’s a problem, and most of us would freely admit our vaginal literacy is pretty dire! 

There’s plenty of misinformation – from pH balance myths to misunderstandings about infections, it’s easy to get lost in the mix. But don’t worry! We’ve enlisted Stigma Health’s sexual health expert Dr Claire Pickett to clear up the confusion and give you the lowdown on how to keep your vaginal health in shape.

Understanding vaginal pH balance

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First up, let’s chat about pH balance. Your vagina thrives in a slightly acidic environment, with a pH around 3.8 to 4.5. This acidity keeps the bad bacteria at bay and helps the good bacteria, particularly Lactobacilli, flourish. When this balance gets thrown off, you might notice some unwelcome symptoms like unusual discharge, odour, itching, or irritation.

So, what can mess with your vaginal pH balance?

• Menstruation: Period blood is more alkaline, which can nudge your pH up.
• Sexual activity: Semen is alkaline too, so it can temporarily change your pH.
• Hygiene products: Douching or using scented soaps and sprays can disrupt your natural balance.
• Antibiotics: These meds can wipe out your good bacteria, leading to an imbalance.

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Differentiating between normal variations and infections

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Vaginal discharge can be a bit of a shape-shifter, varying in consistency and amount throughout your menstrual cycle. Clear, stretchy discharge? Probably ovulation. White, thicker discharge? Likely pre-period. But certain changes can signal an infection.

Here are some common culprits:

1. Bacterial vaginosis (BV): An overgrowth of bad bacteria. Symptoms include a thin, greyish discharge with a fishy odour, especially after sex.
2. Yeast infections: Caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus. Think thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese, along with itching and redness.
3. Trichomoniasis: Caused by a parasite and can be considered an STI. Symptoms include frothy, yellow-green discharge with a strong odour, itching, and discomfort during urination or intercourse.

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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

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STIs are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. They can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. Here are some common STIs and their symptoms:

• Chlamydia: Often sneaky with no symptoms, but can cause abnormal discharge and pain during urination or sex.
• Gonorrhea: Symptoms include unusual discharge, pain during urination, and bleeding between periods.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): Most types are asymptomatic, but some can cause genital warts or be linked to cervical cancer.
• Herpes simplex virus (HSV): Causes painful blisters or sores on the genitals or mouth.

Prevention and treatment

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Keeping your vaginal health in check involves a mix of good hygiene practices – and safe sex!

• Practice safe sex: Condoms are your best friends when it comes to reducing the risk of STIs. Regular testing is also crucial, especially if you have multiple partners. Stigma Health offers convenient online STI testing, making it easier than ever to stay on top of your sexual health.
• Wear breathable underwear: Cotton underwear allows for better air circulation, reducing the risk of yeast infections.
• Avoid douching: Your vagina is self-cleaning, so there’s no need to douche. Ditch the douche! Douching can disrupt your natural balance and lead to infections.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Probiotics found in yogurt and fermented foods can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria.

When to see a doctor

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If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are normal or indicative of an infection, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional. Persistent symptoms, unusual discharge, strong odours, and discomfort should never be ignored.

Understanding the difference between normal vaginal health and infections is key to maintaining your wellbeing. By recognising the signs and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can ensure your vaginal health stays in top shape. Remember, when in doubt, consult your healthcare provider – they’re there to help you navigate any concerns you may have.

So that’s it ladies, lesson over. I hope it’s addressed some of that missing education from SexEd class and you’re feeling more confident with this newfound vaginal literacy!