Stop that itch!

Imagine a scenario where you are before a panel for a job you’ve always wanted and then suddenly you get this very uncomfortable itch in your nether region. You are distracted and squirming in your chair just to feel better but this only goes on to worsen the craving for a really good scratch down there. Most women have been there! It’s surprising that despite the high prevalence, this is a topic that is relegated to the background because it’s seen as a taboo subject.


As a healthcare provider in community practice, it was common to see ladies shyly whisper that they had ‘infection’ as is commonly referred to any itching of the vulva region. Even though the itching and discomfort associated with this condition can be very embarrassing, it’s the body’s way of communicating that all is not well down there. So what could possibly lead to this intense discomfort and how can it be avoided or resolved?


Vaginitis refers to an inflammation of the vagina which is caused by a plethora of factors. These factors can be infective or non infective and presents with symptoms such as Itching, burning sensation, painful urination, change in colour, odour or amount of discharge, pain during sex, soreness and rash. There are 3 major causes of infective vaginitis: 

      
Yeast infections: These occur when there is an overgrowth of fungal organisms called Candida species in the vagina. Candida is present in every healthy vagina even though it’s usually harmless but due to an imbalance in the normal flora of the region, Candida species can suddenly become harmful. The most implicated species of Candida is the Candida albicans. Candida species are kept in check by the Lactobicillus bacteria which produces acid thereby making the vaginal environment unsuitable for the overgrowth of the opportunistic fungi.


Bacterial vaginosis (BV): Anaerobic bacteria are usually the culprit in bacterial vaginosis. Just like most vaginal infections, this condition can be caused by a deficit of the ‘good’ bacteria that perform housekeeping functions and a proliferation of the dreaded anaerobes.


Trichomoniasis: This infection is transmitted by having sex with an infected person. It is caused by an organism called Trichomonas vaginalis. In men the organism usually infects the urinary tract even though it causes no symptoms. Trichomoniasis  has also been shown to increase  the rate of pregnancy related complications


Causes
Antibiotics: A leading cause of vaginal infections is the indiscriminate administration of antibiotics. When antibiotics are taken ignorantly or for a long period of time, it only succeeds in eliminating the bacteria which maintain healthy balance in the vagina thereby giving rise to the overgrowth of the harmful organisms.


Sweet tooth: Another cause of these infections is the uncontrolled blood sugar or overindulgence in very sugary foods; this is because yeast feeds on simple sugar. A diet that is high in refined simple sugars will only help to create a conducive environment for the proliferation of the yeast thereby increasing the likelihood of a chronic yeast infection.


Hygiene: A deficient or non-existence of intimate hygiene. The vagina is a self cleansing organ; this means that little effort is needed in the maintenance of the area. It’s been shown that washing the area with water regularly and caring for the underwear can be enough to keep the place healthy but unfortunately many ladies can’t even do this bit.


Sexual activity: This act especially with multiple partners can aggravate the symptoms of the infection and even predispose healthy ladies to the infection. Promiscuity has never been a virtue rather it robs one of peace of mind in the manifestation of varying infections and emotional turmoil.


There is no doubt that prevention will always be better than cure. Here are some common methods of prevention.
•    Stay hydrated.
•    Eat a healthy, balanced diet and get regular exercise.
•    Wear looser clothing or underwear.
•    Take yogurt regularly, this is because yoghurt has been shown to maintain the pH of the vagina at  the acceptable limits
•    Reduce your sugar intake.
•    Wipe from front to back after going to the restroom to avoid spreading infection from the anus to the vagina
•    Don’t douche or use feminine hygiene sprays, scented sanitary pads or tampons. These aren’t even necessary; washing of the place regularly can suffice.
•    Don’t sit around for long in wet clothing, especially bathing suits as these organisms thrive in humid conditions


Before you take the pills…wait! Are you aware that not every vaginitis should be treated with drugs? Oh yes, it could be a non infective vaginitis. This can be an allergic reaction or irritation from products used in personal care. Hormonal changes especially during menopause have been shown to cause dryness of the vagina thereby causing irritations. In cases like these, it is advisable to discontinue the use of any irritating substance. Post menopausal women can also opt for hormonal replacements in severe recurrent conditions. It is always best to take history so as to determine the causes of the inflammation, this is why one should always pay a visit to his healthcare provider and not indulge in self medication as often times this causes more harm than good.