Many women complain of this symptom. More than likely it happens because there is more blood flow into the vaginal area before your period. If the itchiness goes away once your period is over, it is probably nothing to worry about. If the itching is uncomfortable, Vagisil® Creme can help relieve it. If the itching does not go away, you may have an infection, which will need to be treated by a doctor.

A yeast infection results from an overgrowth of a fungus called "candida." Yeast infections can occur if you have been taking antibiotics, from wearing a wet bathing suit or tight damp clothing (such as workout gear, tight jeans, pantyhose) or from eating too many sweets. These things can change the normal vaginal flora and cause the yeast to grow out of control.

Symptoms of a yeast infection are a thick, curd-like discharge (similar to cottage cheese) with intense itching and irritation. If you have never had a yeast infection and think you have one, see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Yeast infections are treated with an antifungal medication available over-the-counter or through your doctor by prescription. However, antifungals need time to work. In fact, it can take several days before the burning itch is gone. Maximum Strength Vagisil® Creme can be used externally to relieve itching quickly.

It is not normal, but it is common and it sounds like you are having a reaction to wearing a wet or damp bathing suit which can cause a yeast infection. Get out of the bathing suit ASAP after swimming and try some Vagisil® Creme to help relieve the irritating itch symptoms. However, follow the manufacturer's instructions and if the itching does not go away after several days, you may have a yeast infection, which must be treated with an antifungal medication.

Try Gynecort® Creme, from the makers of Vagisil®. You will find it in the feminine care aisle. It contains hydrocortisone, an anti-inflammatory, which should help reduce the irritation (redness) as well as help lessen razor bumps.

If you are using an electric razor, try applying Vagisil® Deodorant Powder first. It may be helpful in reducing drag. However, it won't help relieve irritation after shaving.

Most women who get their periods, or teens that are expecting their periods for the first time, will experience some degree of vaginal discharge. It is usually clear or milky-white in color and does not have a foul odor. It is due to the rising levels of hormones. Vagisil® Deodorant Powder can help you feel fresher and drier. However, you should see a doctor if your discharge is thick and curd-like or has a foul or fish-like odor since it may be a sign that you have an infection.

Yes, it is normal for all girls who have their periods, or about to get their period for the first time, to experience vaginal discharge. Due to the normal rise and fall of hormones, the discharge may appear heavier at times. Normal discharge is our body's own way of cleansing itself. To help you feel fresh, dry and comfortable, try Vagisil® Deodorant Powder. It absorbs the wetness and deodorizes three ways. Sprinkle it on your panties, pantiliners or pads for extra protection. To cleanse away wetness and odor, try Vagisil ™ Foaming Wash. This gentle foam needs no water or rinsing. Just apply to toilet tissue, cleanse and flush. You can even experience cleansing freshness away from home since its slim package fits in your purse.

Every woman has some degree of vaginal discharge, which may have a distinct odor. If you think the odor is related to a vaginal infection such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), then you should see your doctor immediately. BV can have a fish-like odor.

To feel fresher and drier from normal discharge and odor, take these steps:

• Practice good hygiene with daily showering and washing of the genital area.
• Wear cotton underwear and make sure your pantyhose have a cotton crotch.
• Between showers, use Vagisil™ Foaming Wash to cleanse away wetness and odor. Simply apply to toilet tissue, cleanse and flush. You'll feel clean and fresh.
• Sprinkle Vagisil® Deodorant Powder in panties, on pantiliners or pads to help absorb wetness and eliminate odor.

Yes, Vagisil® Deodorant Powder is safe and effective for use in the genital area.

Vagisil® Deodorant Powder does not contain talc and never has. It is made with pure pharmaceutical grade cornstarch and baking soda to absorb wetness and odor so you feel fresher and drier.

Vagisil products are available in the feminine hygiene section of most food, drug, mass merchants, and on-line.

Vagisil® Creme is applied externally -- outside the vagina. Using your fingertip, apply a fingertip amount (approximately 1 inch strip) to the affected area at the labia/vulva area. Products that are applied internally, like some yeast infection products, come with an applicator.

It is normal for your period to begin between the ages of 8 and 18. The average age is 12. Some indicators that you can expect to menstruate soon are breast development, pubic and underarm hair and vaginal discharge. If you do not get your period by 16, you should see a gynecologist for evaluation.

It is fairly normal to have an irregular menstrual cycle for the first several years after your period begins. Some girls miss periods or get two periods in one month, while others may get their first period and not get a second one for more than a year. If you reach the age of 16 and are still not having a regular cycle, ask your mom or someone close to you to arrange for you to see your doctor. If your period is late and there is any concern that you could be pregnant, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.

A period can range from 2 to 10 days. On the average, it lasts from 5 to 7 days. The flow will often be heavy for the first few days then taper off and eventually stop.

You can feel clean and fresh between showers, even when you're away from home with Vagisil™ Foaming Wash. This gentle foam fits in your purse and needs no water or rinsing. Just apply to toilet tissue, cleanse and flush! You'll always feel clean and fresh when you need it most.

Menstrual cramps are very common in teenage girls. You may outgrow them in your 20's. In the meantime, take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, with permission from your parents or guardians. Exercise can also help with menstrual cramps as well as proper diet and rest.

No, you merely have to insert the narrow applicator carefully into the vagina. Even if you are a virgin there is still an opening that can be used to insert a tampon without damaging or seriously tearing the hymenal ring. It may be uncomfortable for some, but there are tampons available for teens in extra slim. There are also directions included with each box of tampons.

Birth control pills can sometimes help decrease menstrual cramps. In fact, this is one medical reason for going on the pill. However, oral contraceptives do not protect you from STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases), so it is important to always protect yourself by using a condom every time you have sexual intercourse.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that girls schedule their first visit to a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 15. It's especially helpful if they are concerned about being a "late bloomer." It's also a perfect time to ask any questions on any topic. Problems that should prompt a gynecologist visit include any pain, swelling, abnormal vaginal discharge or odor, severe menstrual cramps, blood in the urine and abnormal breast changes.

The gynecologist is like other doctors, so he/she will initially talk with you about your medical history. If you are not sexually active, the doctor may do a gentle breast exam and superficial pelvic exam. However, if you are sexually active, a pelvic exam and a Pap smear will both be done, as well as a breast exam.

A Pap smear is a very important screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and cervical cancer. It is done by using a speculum to widen the vagina and allow the doctor to view the cervix. Using a special brush (a cotton swab with a brush at the end), the cervix is gently brushed to gather some cells. These cells are placed on a slide or in a special vial to be looked at under a microscope.

HPV stands for Human Papilloma Virus, which is a sexually transmitted disease and is very common in young women today. It can cause venereal warts, which are warty growths that occur in the genital area of both men and women. It can also cause changes in the cells of the cervix, which can lead to precancerous results on the Pap test (called dysplasia) and even cervical cancer. HPV is very contagious. Both men and women often do not know that they have the virus. As a result, it can easily be passed around. Condoms will afford some protection against contracting the disease, but abstinence is the best way of avoiding exposure. If you think you have this infection or have been exposed to it, you should see your gynecologist and have a Pap test ASAP.

Most women have some degree of "asymmetrical" or "uneven" breasts. However, if there is a big difference in size, it will likely correct itself over time as your breasts develop. If it is a small or subtle difference, that is probably the way your breasts will stay. Keep in mind that this is very common.

Pubic hair has an important function. It serves to protect the vaginal area against disease, infection and trauma. Therefore, the safest form of bikini wax to get is one that just removes hair in the bikini line. It is not advisable to remove all the pubic hair.