Page 134 - (DK) Home Doctor: Providing practical advice on home treatments

132 COMMON CONDITIONS: WOMEN’S PROBLEMS

Vaginal discharge

It is normal for a woman to have some discharge from the vagina. This is usually clear or white, the amount
and consistency varying at different times in the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, and in response to
sexual arousal. However, a profuse discharge or one that has an unusual consistency or smell is usually
a sign of infection. The most common cause is a yeast infection that produces a discharge like cottage
cheese, irritation in or around your vagina, and, sometimes, a burning sensation when you pass urine. This
is not usually sexually transmitted. It is caused by factors that encourage overgrowth of yeast, such as
taking antibiotics, wearing tight-fitting clothes, and using vaginal douches and deodorants. Some types of
vaginal discharge are a symptom of a sexually transmitted infection and need treatment from a doctor.

See your doctor first
DRUG REMEDIES
Make an appointment to see your doctor
if you think you may have a sexually Antifungal drugs (see p.178) come in two
transmitted infection and/or: types. You can take a short course of clotrimazole or
miconazole suppositories or cream. These should be
● The discharge is bloodstained, greenish
introduced into the vagina while you are lying down,
yellow, or foul smelling so the drug stays in place. Use them at bedtime so
● You have other symptoms, such as fever
that they work overnight.
and lower abdominal pain
● You have recurrent abnormal discharges
● You are pregnant
NATURAL REMEDIES

What you can do yourself Baking soda (see p.179) can help to soothe
soreness and irritation. Add 2 tablespoonfuls to a
If you are sure that you have a yeast infection, lukewarm, shallow bath.
you can usually treat it yourself. Start the Yogurt with active cultures contains bacteria
treatment as soon as you notice symptoms. that help fight the infection. To insert yogurt into your
vagina, put some in the top of a tampon applicator,
● Use an antifungal suppository or cream for a
then insert the tampon into
yeast infection (see DRUG REMEDIES, right).
the vagina. Remove it an
● To relieve itchiness and discomfort, try adding hour later.
some baking soda to a bath (see NATURAL
Using yogurt
REMEDIES, right).
Apply it to your vulva
● For a mild yeast infection, applying yogurt to and inside your vagina.
your vulva and vagina may help (see NATURAL
REMEDIES, right). This has a soothing effect.
PREVENTION

Seek further medical advice Avoiding attacks If you often have yeast
infections, the following may help prevent recurrences.
Arrange to see your doctor if:
● Don’t use pantyhose, synthetic panties, or panty
● The infection does not clear up in 2–3 days
liners. Use only sanitary pads during periods. If you
using the treatment above or from your doctor use tampons, change them at least every 4 hours.
● Use only water and unperfumed soap on your vulva.