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| Fix that itch glitch! |
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| Got a down-there dilemma that's driving you nuts? Don't cross your legs and ignore it - sort it!
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The itch: frothy, itchy discharge |
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If your discharge has taken on the appearance of your morning Starbucks (enough to put you off lattes for life, huh?) is yellow-green or grey in colour and itchy, then could have trichomoniasis.
What is it? This is an infection of the genitals by a tiny parasite, called trichomonas vaginalis. They live in your vagina and can cause irritation, inflammation, cystitis and excessive odorous discharge. It can also make sex painful.
How did I get it? Trichomoniasis is usually caught through unprotected sex or, less commonly, sharing wet towels, and it can take a few weeks for symptoms to appear. It is one of the most commonly occurring STIs, along with herpes, chlamydia and hepatitis B. You can also get it from mutual masturbation and sharing infected sex toys. As with all STIs, using a condom is the best way to reduce the risk of infection - oh, and stick to your own towels to be on the safe side!
Fix it: If you think you or your partner is infected, you must consult a GP or go directly to a GUM clinic, as you will both need to be treated. Trichomoniasis can be cured easily with antibiotics, but, if left untreated, it can lead to further health problems. |
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The itch: blister-like sores |
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Small clusters of blisters down below are a symptom of genital herpes. It can start with tingling, itching, burning or pain, followed by painful, red spots that eventually turn into whitish-yellow blisters before bursting and leaving painful ulcers that scab over. Other, more generalised symptoms include fever and aches and pains.
What is it? Genital herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of this virus, but both can affect the genitals. In women, the areas most commonly affected are the vulva and the entrance to the vagina. However, sores can also develop on the cervix.
How did I get it? Herpes is passed through unprotected sex or direct skin-to-skin contact (such as your partner's face touching your genitals when he has a cold sore). Unfortunately, there's no complete cure, but herpes doesn't cause serious health problems and won't affect your fertility.
Fix it: Genital herpes isn't curable, but it is manageable - sufferers usually have around four recurrences a year. There are a number of treatments that offer effective relief from symptoms. Aspirin will ease the pain during an attack, as will washing the area in a salt bath - this will clean and soothe the sores. Wearing loose, cotton underwear will also help comfort and allow healing.
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The itch: smelly discharge |
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OK, so it's not strictly an itch, but it is a down-there problem! Excessive vaginal discharge can be unpleasant at the best of times, but, when you're also conscious that it's a little on the smelly side, it's seriously embarrassing. If the discharge also has a greyish colour, then you could have bacterial vaginosis.
What is it? Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, as it's often referred to, is the most common vaginal infection and has been reported to affect up to 20% of women in their childbearing years. It's caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina and can be difficult to diagnose.
How did I get it? There are a variety of reasons why some women get BV. It can be caused by a number of things, including chemicals found in bubble baths, soaps and perfumes, wearing wet bikini bottoms or squeezing into those skinny jeans; this is because bacteria thrives and spreads in warm, moist areas. It can also be caused by poor genital hygiene (eg wiping your bottom from back to front). Sleeping with a new partner or having multiple partners can also put you at an increased risk, as can using an IUD (intrauterine device), which can introduce bacteria into the reproductive tract, triggering an infection.
Fix it: BV is more of a nuisance than a health hazard (unless you're pregnant, when it can cause complications) and is easily treated with a course of antibiotics - either orally or with a vaginal cream both prescribed by your doctor or GUM clinic. If it recurs, a repeat course of antibiotics should solve the problem. Other preventative measures include avoiding perfumed soaps and bubble baths, using non-biological washing powder, wearing cotton underwear and loose nightclothes. Also avoid wearing this season's footless tights or leggings. |
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