Common types of vaginitis, continued…
Sexually transmitted infections can affect the healthy flora of the vagina, these include: gonorrhoea, chlamydia, genital warts, syphilis and genital herpes. Signs and symptoms can include genital sores, a vaginal discharge and pelvic pain
Vaginismus is an involuntary spasm of the muscles of the vaginal wall. This occurs when a something is put inside the vagina (penis, menstrual cup, tampon or sex toy). This can cause pain, pelvic floor spasm and difficulties with using tampons, menstrual cups or intercourse.
Vaginal Cysts can cause pain during sex or make it tricky to insert a Menstrual Cup or Tampon.
TSS or Toxic Shock Syndrome is a bacterial infection that has entered the bloodstream via a cut or abrasion in the vagina. These bacteria travel directly to the internal organs and can be fatal.
What can I do to keep my vagina healthy?
You can take steps to protect your vaginal health and overall health. For example:
- Be sexually responsible. Use condoms to prevent bacterial infections or STDs. If you use sex toys, clean them after every use.
- Avoid douching as this can remove the good bacteria responsible for keeping your vagina healthy.
- Do pelvic floor exercise to exercise your muscles, keeping the structure supporting your vagina in good shape.
- Know your medications. Discuss medication use and possible vaginal side effects with your doctor.
- Limit the amount of alcohol you drink and don’t smoke. Too much alcohol can cause sexual dysfunction and nicotine might inhibit sexual arousal.
- Change your tampon every 4-8 hours, washing your hands before and after insertion.
- Empty your Menstrual Cup every 4-8 hours, washing your hands before and after insertion. Sterilize your cup between cycles.
While not all vaginal problems can be prevented, regular check-ups can help ensure that problems affecting your vagina are diagnosed as soon as possible. Don’t let embarrassment prevent you from talking to your doctor about any concerns you might have about your vaginal health. Vaginas are just a normal part of your body and need just as much care!
References:
- A Question for Women’s Health: Chemicals in Feminine Hygiene Products and Personal Lubricants: https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/122-a70/
- Female Reproductive System http://faculty.etsu.edu/forsman/femalelecture.htm
- Vagina https://health.howstuffworks.com/sexual-health/female-reproductive-system/vagina-definition1.htm
- Teach Me Anatomy: The Vagina http://teachmeanatomy.info/pelvis/female-reproductive-tract/vagina/
- Inner Body – Vagina: http://www.innerbody.com/image_repfov/repo12-new.html
- WebMed Vaginal Infections: https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/sexual-health-vaginal-infections#1
Kimberli Schuitman is the founder of My Cup – a social enterprise that sells menstrual cups. Menstrual Cups are heathy, safe, comfortable, economic, sustainable and life changing. See the My Cup website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
