FACTS ON VAGINAL INFECTION

Do you have itching, irritation, and redness around your external genitalia? A thick, white discharge from the vagina? Do you experience burning and or pain in your external genitalia when you urinate? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then you may be suffering from vaginal yeast infection.

Most women suffer from yeast infection, the most common type of vaginal infections. It is estimated that nearly three out of four women will suffer from vaginal infection at least once in their lifetime. Vaginal yeast infection is also called Minola or Candida, vaginal thrush or “white” referring to the thick white discharge. According to Dr. Nelson Damale, a consultant Gynaecologist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, the infection results from the overgrowth of Candida albicans (a species of yeast or fungus) and Candida glabrata which is normally present in harmless amounts in the Vagina.

Predisposing factors
Many conditions may trigger yeast infection such as hormonal changes that come with pregnancy or even before monthly periods and taking of hormones or birth control pills.
He said other conditions which may cause “white” were the taking of broad spectrum antibiotics like amoxicillin and cloxacillin inappropriately and having elevated blood sugar as found in uncontrolled diabetes. Having sexual intercourse, especially with inadequate lubrication, douching with perfumed soaps and deodorant, sexual transmission from an infected partner and weakened immune system are some of the other factors that also predispose one to yeast infections.
Most women wearing non cotton, tight or dirty under clothes that trap heat and moisture and this can cause yeast infection.

Prevention
To prevent vaginal yeast infection, it is important that women practice good hygiene, washed regularly to clean the inside folds of the vulva and dry the vaginal area thoroughly after taking a shower or bathing. After visiting the toilet, wipe from front to back and wear cotton under pants.
Women who exercise their body should change underwear right after exercising and use unscented tampons or sanitary pads and change them frequently.

Treatment
Dr Nelson Damale suggested the following treatment;
The use of Gyno-Dermofix, a single dose vaginal tablet which is inserted at night (also effective against bacterial and protozoal infections) and Gyno-Dermofix cream;
Cansten pessaries and cream;
Miconazolee pessaries and
Econazole preparations

“White” if left untreated, will make one fell uncomfortable. Most female s will suffer from it at one stage or the other in their lives. It is nothing to be ashamed of at all and there are effective treatments for it, so young girls, ladies and your our elderly mothers, you need not go about your day to day activities while suffering in your private parts. Seek help and visit the clinic and discuss it thoroughly with your doctor.

Do share this article with a friend, loved one or mother.

Source: Kwei Rebecca, October 31, 2003, Daily Graphic, Women’s World. Pp 11