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HEALTH CONCERNS
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Itching “down there” can drive any woman crazy. “Down there” is the vulvovaginal area and anything from wearing tight clothing, to a vaginal infection like trichomoniasis can cause uncomfortable, even painful itching. Having an itch is not about being dirty or having poor hygiene. As you can see below, there are many common causes for it.
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What makes an itch not an infection?
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Non-infectious vaginitis is described as moderate to mild itching often accompanied by irritation. But it’s still enough to make you miserable. Everyday causes can be the culprit:
- Wearing certain clothing – anything tight – such as pantyhose, thong underwear, too tight underwear, tight jeans can trap moisture which can cause itching
- Wearing synthetic materials next to the skin that don’t let skin breath
- Wearing a wet bathing suit
- Excess perspiration
- Your period, wearing pads or pantiliners, the hormonal fluctuations of your menstrual cycle
- Allergic reactions to soaps, detergents, spermicides, condoms & deodorants
- Vaginal or vulvar dryness (often experienced during menopause)
- Sexual activity
- Dermatological causes like eczema and psoriasis
How can Vagisil help?
Try Original Formula Vagisil® Crème. It has a fast-acting anesthetic that helps stop the itch and,as a result, the urge to scratch! And with vitamins E, A and D you get the added plus of soothing relief for irritated skin.
Not every itch is a yeast infection – even though you may think it is. There are other kinds of vaginal infections that also have itching as one of its symptoms. The descriptions below can help give you an idea of some of the more common infections. But for proper diagnosis, you’ll need to see your doctor.
The information below can help you identify what might be an infection but keep in mind that only your doctor can diagnose and treat it. |
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Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
The most common type of vaginal infection in women of childbearing age. Fifty percent of women with BV have no symptoms or discomfort.
Causes: Sexual activity (although it is not a STD), changes in vaginal pH, douching.
Symptoms:
- May have vaginal itching.
- Unpleasant “fish-like” vaginal odor. May be particularly strong after sexual relations and around the time of menstruation.
- Excessive white-grayish vaginal discharge with a milk-like consistency.
Treatment: If you think you have BV, see your doctor. Your doctor will diagnose and most likely prescribe an antibiotic to be taken orally or vaginally. If you have itching as a symptom, Maximum Strength Vagisil® Crème or Medicated Wipes can bring fast relief while you wait for the prescription to cure the infection. For the odor and discharge, Vagisil® Deodorant Powder can help. It absorbs wetness and has Odor-Blocking Protection.
Yeast Infection
The second most common type of infectious vaginitis. It is usually the result of an excess for the fungus known as Candida albicans, which is normally present in the vagina and bowel.
Causes: Antibiotics, obesity, pregnancy, diabetes, birth control pills.
Symptoms:
- Mild to severe itching, redness & irritation.
- Intense burning.
- Thick, curd like discharge similar to cottage cheese.
- Odorless or yeasty.
Treatment: First time sufferers, see a doctor for diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription antifungal to cure the infection. However, these need time to work. In fact, it can take several days before the burning itch is gone. While you’re waiting for relief, Maximum Strength Vagisil® Crème or Medicated Wipes can instantly relieve the external itching. Vagisil® Wipes can also cleanse away the discharge.
Trichomonas Infection
One of the most familiar forms of vaginitis, it is caused by a parasitic organism known as Trichomonas.
Causes: It is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) and is passed between both men and women by sexual contact.
Symptoms:
- Burning, itching, redness and soreness of the vulva and vagina.
- Vulvar swelling.
- Painful intercourse.
- Profuse discharge, greenish-yellow or gray color, which may have a foul or fishy odor.
Treatment: Examination and diagnosis by a doctor is necessary. An antibiotic is the prescribed treatment. You and your partner/s should both be treated to avoid passing it back and forth. If you have itching as a symptom and are given an oral antibiotic, Maximum Strength Vagisil® Crème or Medicated Wipes can relieve the itching fast while you wait for the antibiotic to work. And for the odor and discharge, try Vagisil® Deodorant Powder. It absorbs wetness and has Odor-Blocking Protection.
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