With our busy schedules, it can be too difficult for us to find time for the things that really matter most, like a gynecologist visit perhaps. Because of this, many women do not know that something is wrong with them not until the symptoms are already obvious or the disease is already severe.
If you wish to determine how to have a healthy vagina, you should first be familiar with the different signs that your vagina is not healthy, here are some of them:
1. Dryness
It is normal for your vagina to feel moist and it is common for it to not feel wet from time to time. But if you have noticed that a day went by and you haven’t felt any moisture down there, then you may want to visit your gynecologist. However, if you are at the age of 50 and you have already entered the perimenopause phase, then vaginal dryness is just ordinary and is just a sign that you will be experiencing menopause anytime soon.
2. Foul Smell
It is normal for your vagina to smell a bit bad, especially if you have your period. But if you have noticed that a strong odor flares up in your nostril every time you sit down to pee or if your undergarments smell bad every time you take them off, this may indicate the presence of infection. One of the most prominent symptoms of vaginosis is a fishy odor. If you have it, visit the doctor right away.
3. Excessive Discharge
Vaginal discharge is our body’s defense mechanism against bacteria and dryness. However, too much discharge, to the point that you have to change underwear many times a day, indicates an unhealthy vagina.
4. Burning Feeling
If you are experiencing a constant burning sensation down there, then you should be alarmed. This burning sensation may indicate various infections like yeast infections or STD’s.
5. Constant Itching
Moderate and irregular itching is normal and can happen for a lot of reasons including dryness, response to a new feminine product, razor burns or exposure to synthetic fabrics. However, having a constant (like all-day) feeling of itchiness in your vagina is not normal. If this persists for several days, it may indicate the presence of bacterial infection or STD’s.
6. Discolored Discharge
The typical color is a clear and transparent discharge. Any color other than this may indicate an unhealthy vagina. If you have seen a yellow discharge in your underwear, it is a symptom of vaginosis. On the other hand, you have a yeast infection if your vaginal discharge is dry, crumbly and resembles the appearance of cottage cheese.
7. Abnormal Bleeding Patterns
If you are experiencing light bleeding in between periods, it may be normal. But if it does happen a lot, then it may be a cause for alarm and may signify various health concerns like uterine fibroids, PCOS, cancers and many more.
8. Bleeding After Or During Sex
It is normal for women to experience a bit of sensitivity after having sexual intercourse but the presence of blood after or while you are doing the deed can be quite alarming. If you have noticed that this happens fairly often, then you may have a vaginal tear, vaginal infection, or chlamydia.
9. Irregular Period
Many women have irregular menstrual periods. Sometimes, they would have their periods for two weeks while others would go for several months not having one. If you are one of the women suffering from irregular periods, pay a visit to your doctor so you can be screened for cancer or STD’s.
10. Lesions Or Blisters
A bit of skin irritation down there is not alarming. But one thing you have to worry about is the presence of deep lesions or blisters that may or may not be bleeding. These blisters usually start small, but it can grow to the size of a mole. Such blisters may indicate STD’s or vulvar cancer. Because of this, it is recommended that you carry out a physical check of your vagina from time to time.
How To Have a Healthy Vagina
If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms mentioned above, it means that it is about time that you start taking good care of your vagina. To manage the unhealthy symptoms, it is advised that you visit your gynecologist so you can determine the possible treatments. To maintain good vaginal health, make sure to wash your pubic area using water or a mild feminine wash on a daily basis.
