help with this issue as well. Drinking lots of water daily will also help to keep the bladder in check and free of harmful germs.
4. Yeast Infection
Yeast is a fungus that naturally occurs within the vagina in small amounts, but when the yeast cells multiply and grow to great numbers, a yeast infection is contracted causing symptoms such as itching or soreness, a thick, clumpy white discharge that has no odor, burning during urination and burning during sex.
A healthy vagina contains several different types of bacteria and a small number of yeast cells, and it is the common bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus that keeps other organisms-like yeast-under control.
Common causes of yeast infections include high levels of estrogen caused by pregnancy or the use of hormone therapy, certain antibiotic treatments, a diet high in sugar, lack of airflow to the vagina and also issues such as diabetes or HIV.
Treatment: This type of infection is easy to cure by using over the counter antifungal creams that are inserted vaginally at night over the course of one to seven days.
A doctor can also prescribe an antifungal medication to be taken orally in the dose of one pill.
Preventing infection is simple, including the use of wiping correctly (from front to back), keeping the vaginal area clean by using a mild, unscented soap with water making sure to rinse well, wearing full cotton underwear to allow the vagina to breathe and avoiding tight-fitting clothing.
Changing tampons and pads frequently during menstruation is recommended and avoiding the use of douches and scented feminine products is critical.
Women: Keep Your Lady Parts Healthy (And Happy)
5. Vaginal Odor
Vaginal odor can occur because of an imbalance of good and bad bacteria within the vagina and because of the pH balance being thrown off.
Certain medications, foods and drinks can cause the vaginal ecosystem to be thrown off, which in turn can cause certain odors.
The most common reason why the vagina may have an odor is because of a buildup of bacteria that needs to be cleansed away.
Treatment: The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, however, when bad bacteria has been allowed to fester and grow, antibiotics or natural substances known for bringing the ecosystem back into balance are needed.
Using feminine deodorant sprays will only mask the problem, however, sometimes the vulva does need a cleansing in between showers because of sweat and bacteria that can collect within the folds of the labia (lips).
Using baby wipes or feminine wipes to clean the area during bathroom breaks is a great way to control vaginal/vulva odor, and taking a bath at least once a week is an excellent way to help facilitate the vagina in keeping its ecosystem in perfect balanced harmony.
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Womens Health center for more articles.
Glamazon Tyomi is a freelance writer, model and sex educator with a deeply rooted passion for spreading the message of sex positivity and encouraging the masses to embrace their sexuality. Her website, www.sexperttyomi.com, reaches internationally as a source for advice and information for the sexually active/curious. Follow her on Twitter at @glamazontyomi.