Vulvovaginal health

Encyclopedia : V : VU : VUL : Vulvovaginal health

Vulvovaginal health is the health and sanitation of the human female vulva and vagina.

Contents

1 Conditions
2 Causes
3 Symptoms
4 Maintaining health
5 See also
6 External links

Conditions

Problems affecting this area include:

Infection with Candida albicans (candidiasis or "yeast infection")
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) associated with the Gardnerella, formerly called "nonspecific vaginitis"
Trichomoniasis
Vulvodynia
Vestibulodynia
Cervical cancer (detected by the Pap smear)
Urinary bladder infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), cystitis, Urethritis
Various types of prolapse (where another pelvic organ protrudes into the vagina)
Cancer of the vulva

Causes

The vulva and vagina have a "normal flora" of "friendly" microorganisms (including the lactobacillus which turns milk into yogurt) which help to keep the area healthy. When the normal balance is disturbed, an infection can result.

Symptoms

The generic term for infection of the vagina is vaginitis. Symptoms may include an unusual or unpleasant discharge, itching, or pain during intercourse. But vaginal infections may also be present without any noticeable symptoms.

Maintaining health

The following measures are advisable for keeping the vulva and vagina healthy:

Washing once a day or so with water but without soap, since soap disturbs the natural pH balance of the vagina. Other measures are seldom necessary or advisable. Two notable examples: so-called "feminine hygiene sprays" are unnecessary, may be generally harmful, and have been known to cause severe allergic reactions. Vaginal douching is generally not necessary and has been implicated in helping to cause bacterial vaginosis (BV) and candidiasis ("yeast infections").
After using the toilet, wipe from the front toward the back to avoid introducing bacteria from the anal area into the vulva.
Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently and as soon as possible when you feel the need, to help flush bacteria out of the urinary tract and avoid urinary tract infections. For the same reason, try to urinate before and after sex.
Change out of a wet swimsuit or other wet clothes as soon as possible.
Avoid fragrances, colors, and "deodorants" in products that contact the vulva/vagina: sanitary pads, tampons, toilet paper. Some women who are sensitive to these substances should also avoid bubble baths and some fabric detergents and softeners.
Avoid wearing leather trousers, tight jeans, panties made of nylon or other synthetic fabrics, or pantyhose without an all-cotton crotch (not cotton covered by nylon - cut out the nylon panel if necessary).
Anything which has been in contact with the anal area (see anal sex) should be thoroughly washed with soap and water or a similar disinfectant before coming in contact with the vulva or vagina.
Use condoms, practice safer sex, know your sex partners, ask sex partners to practice basic hygiene (soap and water) of the genitals. Use artificial lubrication during the intercourse if the amount naturally produced is too small.
Be careful with objects inserted inside the vagina. Improper insertion of objects into any body opening can cause damage: infection, cutting, piercing, trauma, blood loss, etc.

Women who are unable to walk are more likely to have infections. The problem can be prevented according to above-mentioned and following measures:

Wash crotch and rectal areas with neutral soap and large amount of warm running water, every morning and evening. The disabled person can sit on a shower chair with an open seat or on a toilet. Use a shower head or water container to wash more directly.
Use towel and blowdryer to dry.
Apply a little body powder on the skin of the areas to absorb perspiration.
Avoid sitting on plastic or synthetic materials.
Wear loose underpant and change twice or three times a day.

External links

[Vaginitis/Vaginal infection fact sheet from the National Institute of Allergies and Infections]
[Anti-infection health tips]
[Female Sexual Health 101] - by noted sex activist and educator Heather Corinna
[How to Prepare for Your First Gynecologist's Visit] by Heather Corinna