Is your vagina healthy?
Vagina is a self-cleaning organ and washing your external genitalia with plain soap (non-fragrant) and water should be sufficient to keep you clean and healthy down there – free of impurities, germs, and bad odor.
It's also important to know that no part of your genitalia should itch, hurt, or burn. If you experience any such sign, there could be something "off" with your vaginal health. Here are 5 important signs your vagina is not healthy.
A fishy odor
If your vagina has a fishy odor, it could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), that is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria and an imbalance of the pH balance of the vagina. This fishy odor may be accompanied by extra clear discharge. BV is easily treatable with antibiotics prescribed from your gynecologist. Changing your diet and choosing healthier foods may help.
A strong odor with green discharge can be a sign of an STI, however, do not self-diagnose and consult your doctor.
Irregular discharge
Vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese or is yellowish in color could be a sign of a yeast or fungal infection. These can be caused by wearing tight non-breathable underwear, douching, or an unhealthy diet high in sugar. It is best to consult your gynecologist for diagnosis and treatment. Drinking water and making healthy changes in your diet such as cutting back on high-sugar foods and alcohol can help.
Irregular bleeding
Bleeding or spotting that occurs when you're not menstruating can be a sign of hormonal imbalance. Bleeding after sex may be a sign of cervical cancer. However, it need not necessarily be a sign of cancer. Consult your gynecologist for a proper diagnosis.
Read more: Can you have sex if you have the flu?
Itching and redness
If your vulva or vagina itches, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It could be resulting from vaginal dryness caused by hormonal changes or allergic reaction to any personal hygiene item. Itchiness or redness could also be signs of yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or bacterial vaginosis.
Read more: Sneaky ways you can get a UTI
Burning sensation
Experiencing a burning sensation in the vagina or while urinating can signal an unhealthy vagina or possible urinary tract infection (UTI). Other possible reasons could be yeast, bacterial or sexually transmitted infections. Check with your doctor to find the right cause of the symptom, especially if it is persistent and not a one-time thing.