Maintaining vaginal well-being performs an important function in women‘s general health as vaginal points affect fertility and may result in stress, relationship difficulties and a decline in self-confidence. The vagina is a delicate side of the feminine reproductive system however often, a lady might observe deviations from its typical performance.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aswati Nair, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in New Delhi’s Rajouri Garden, shared, “It’s not uncommon for women to encounter sporadic vaginal concerns, which can arise from changes in menstrual cycles or intimate encounters. However, it’s advisable to address and examine these concerns early on to prevent them from progressing into more severe problems or medical conditions.”

Types of Vaginal Issues

According to Dr Aswati Nair, sure vaginal circumstances comparable to sexually transmitted ailments affecting the vagina, are extra extreme than milder points like yeast infections and a number of the widespread vaginal issues are –

• Vaginitis: Vaginitis is a basic time period that describes irritation of the vagina. Typically, there’s a wholesome steadiness of micro organism and yeast. But when this pure equilibrium is disturbed, girls can expertise discomfort and an uncommon odor. Vaginitis may be brought on by yeast an infection, or the introduction of recent merchandise comparable to soaps and even totally different cloth sorts in underwear linings may result in inflammations within the vagina. Atrophic vaginitis is one other situation that happens after menstruation. It is accompanied by vaginal dryness and irritation.
• Bacterial Vaginosis: Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) happens on account of an overgrowth of micro organism. Maintaining the fitting steadiness is essential for vaginal well being, as BV could cause vaginal itching or discomfort, and a distinguished fishy odor. Furthermore, BV can improve the danger of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. It can also be a rising concern for pregnant girls.
• Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is a STD illness that’s brought on by parasitic an infection. Its indications embrace redness, itchiness, discomfort throughout urination, vaginal discharge & odor.
• Vulvodynia: Vulvodynia is a power situation that leads to ache across the opening of the vagina. The signs can embrace burning, stinging, rawness, soreness, and even swelling. If left unaddressed, it may intervene with intimate relationships and result in anxiousness.
• STIs: STIs are a big explanation for vaginal points. Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital herpes and Genital herpes could cause severe considerations comparable to vaginal discharge, bleeding, ache and result in severe implication on one’s well being and well-being.
• Vaginal Dryness: Dryness may be introduced on by harsh merchandise used there, low estrogen ranges, and stress. However, moisture deprivation throughout intercourse presents a matter of concern.

Tailored Treatments: A Comprehensive Approach to Vaginal Wellness

Dr Aswati Nair revealed, “Vaginal issues are treated with a combination of methods that usually involves low-potency topical steroids, oral antibiotics, antifungals, and antibacterial lotions. Medications such as clotrimazole and butoconazole are usually prescribed for effective management of the above ailments. Antibiotics, such clindamycin or metronidazole (Flagyl), are frequently used to treat bacterial vaginitis (BV) whereas inflammation from allergic reactions are attended to through antihistamines.”

Preventive Measures: Strategies for Vaginal Health

Bringing her experience to the identical, Dr Manju Gupta, Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, instructed the next strategies to forestall widespread vaginal points –

• Keep your genital space clear: Cleanse your vaginal space with water and delicate, unscented cleaning soap.
• Select acceptable panties and sanitary napkins: It is vital to decide on the fitting undergarment to make sure that your vaginal space is dry. Cotton is an efficient materials for undergarments. It is advisable to not put on underwear whereas sleeping because the undergarment gained’t retain the dampness of the vaginal discharge. Additionally, tampons, pads and liners which have scents shouldn’t be used throughout menstruation.
• Avoid tight garments: Wearing too tight garments or shapewears for a chronic time frame can generally outcome into vaginal infections.
• Refrain from carrying damp swimwear and underpants for lengthy: Swimsuits shouldn’t be worn for longer than is important because it retains the whole lot heat and moist, carrying a moist swimsuit will encourage the unfold of yeast.
• Clean your vaginal space dry after each washroom use: Ensure you wipe your vaginal space dry after you employ the washroom every time. To cease germs or yeast from spreading between your vagina, urinary tract, and anus after utilizing the restroom, wipe from entrance to again.