Vaginal Infection: Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is due to an imbalance in the bacteria that are normally present in the vagina. The numbers of lactobacilli decrease and the numbers of certain other types of harmful bacteria increase. Cells on vaginal walls become covered with bacteria. These bacteria-covered cells are called clue cells. The cause of this is not clearly understood. Contributing factors may include douching, or increased frequency of intercourse. 

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

• Thin, milky white or gray discharge
  
• Unpleasant "fishy" odor
  
• Irritation, itching, burning at opening of vagina (in some cases)
  
• Burning or irritation with intercourse or urination (in some cases)
  

Treating Bacterial Vaginosis

BV is often treated with antibiotic pills. In some cases, a vaginal antibiotic cream is prescribed instead. During treatment:

• Finish all of your medication, even if your symptoms go away.
  
• If you are taking antibiotic pills, avoid alcohol until you're finished with all of your medication.
  
• If you are using vaginal cream, apply it using the instructions on the prescription. Be aware that the cream may make condoms and diaphragms less effective.
  
• Call your doctor if symptoms persist, or if you have an allergic reaction to the medication.
  

Vaginal Infection: Yeast (Candidiasis)

Yeast infection occurs when yeast in the vagina increase and start attacking the vaginal tissues. Yeast is not bacteria, but a type of fungus. These infections are often caused by a type of yeast called Candida albicans. Other species of yeast can also cause infections. Factors that may make infection more likely include recent antibiotic use, douching, or increased frequency of intercourse. Yeast infections are more common in women who are diabetic, obese, pregnant, or have a suppressed immune system.

Symptoms of Yeast Infection

• Clumpy or thin, white discharge
  
• Slight cheeselike odor, or no odor
  
• Severe vaginal itching or burning
  
• Burning with urination
  
• Swelling, redness of vulva
  

Treating Yeast Infection

Yeast infection is treated with a vaginal antifungal cream. In some cases, antifungal pills are prescribed instead. During treatment:

• Finish all of your medication, even if your symptoms go away.
  
• Apply the cream before going to bed. Lie flat after applying so that it doesn't drip out.
  
• Do not douche or use tampons.
  
• Don't rely on a diaphragm or condoms, since the cream may weaken them.
  
• Avoid intercourse if advised by your healthcare provider.
  
• Call your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or come back after your medication is finished.
  

Preventing Vaginitis Guntersville

Preventing vaginitis may be as simple as changing a few habits related to your hygiene, lifestyle, or clothing. Follow the tips below and see your health care provider if you suspect vaginitis again.

 

Use mild, unscented soap when you bathe or shower to avoid irritating your vagina.

Hygiene

• Avoid using douches (unless recommended by your health care provider), vaginal sprays, scented toilet paper, or scented tampons. They contain chemicals that can irritate your vagina.
  
• Wash your vulva (outer vaginal area) thoroughly every day and keep it as dry as possible to guard against bacterial growth.
  
• Wipe from front to back after a bowel movement. This prevents spreading bacteria from your anus to your vagina.
  
• Change tampons frequently during your period to allow the flow of normal vaginal discharge.
  

 

Eat a variety of healthy foods. Too many sweet or starchy foods in your diet may speed up the growth of harmful bacteria.

Lifestyle

• Limit your number of sexual partners and use latex condoms to reduce your risk of infection.
  
• Get enough rest and sleep to help keep your resistance to infection high.
  
• Lose weight if you're very heavy. Obesity can promote infection by preventing air circulation around your vagina.
  
• Exercise regularly to reduce stress and strengthen your body's resistance to infection.
  

Clothing

• Don't sit around in wet clothes, since yeast thrive in a warm, damp environment.
  
• Avoid wearing tight pants or pantyhose without a cotton crotch, since they trap warmth and moisture.
  
• Wear cotton underwear to allow good air circulation around your vagina.
  

Breast Health and Conditions Guntersville

Breast Health: Normal Breast Changes

Breasts change over time. Their size and texture may vary with shifts in your body weight. Breasts also change as you go through different stages of your life.

Puberty

Breasts start growing before a girl begins to menstruate. This happens in response to hormonal changes. Each girl's breasts mature at their own pace.

Menstrual Cycle

Most women's breasts change during the menstrual cycle. Before each period, mammary glands may swell and become tender or lumpy. After the period ends, swelling, tenderness, and lumpiness are likely to lessen. Women who take birth control pills may find that their breasts become firmer and larger.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

During pregnancy, mammary glands enlarge to produce milk. This makes breasts larger and firmer. When breastfeeding ends, breasts return to their original size and may feel less firm.

Menopause

During and after menopause, ducts and mammary glands shrink. They're replaced by fatty tissue, making breasts feel less lumpy. Women who take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may have fewer breast changes related to menopause.