Vaginal itching and irritation can be a sexual health issue that affects many women at different ages during a woman’s life. This itching or discomfort can be felt inside or outside near the lips of the vagina. There are several chemical reasons that can cause the irritation including strong washing detergents or fabric softeners used to wash clothing. It is also important to consider types of soaps or bubble baths, feminine sprays, ointments, creams or douches used to freshen up your vaginal area, as many can be harsh and irritate the skin. Contraceptive foams or jellies, or specific types of condoms used during sexual foreplay or intercourse may also be the culprit. Vaginal tissue is very sensitive and so you need to consider what types of chemicals you are using. If you suddenly develop itching it might be due to a change in one of these products.
There are vaginal infections that can be quite common such as candida or “yeast” infections, bacterial vaginosis or BV, viral vaginitis, Trichomoniasis vaginitis or Chlamydia vaginitis. Only Trichomoniasis vaginitis and Chlamydia vaginitis are considered sexually transmitted diseases. Our vagina is one of the most acidic environments in the body. The reason the vagina is acidic is to kill and prevent microorganisms from getting to a women’s reproductive system. The acidity acts as a first line of defense for a women’s body. There are many things that can bring on an infection like birth control pills, menstruation, and pregnancy, because of their impact on women’s hormones. Chemical irritants, especially ones used during intercourse or toys can introduce microorganisms into the vagina. Stress, (yes you read it correctly, stress), causes a weakening of the immune system which makes the body more susceptible to infections including the vaginal infections. Any sickness or illness that weakens the entire immune system including diseases like diabetes can cause infections too.
The challenge with vaginal infections is that they can be difficult to identify and most women may only know about candida and then just treat for the wrong infection. Most often it is best to go to your doctor and have test run to see which organism is causing the problems so you can use the correct treatment and get rid of the problem. If after treatment you notice that the problem persists have the test run again because you might have treated the wrong organism.
The first step in naturopathic treatments is getting a sexual history followed by a vaginal exam. We remove any of the chemical irritants that could cause the problem. Whole foods help support and boost the immune system. This means fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds and lean meats. Once the microorganism has been identified the appropriate herbal suppository and/or oral preparations are given. Finally follow up within one to two weeks of treatment make sure the problem has been resolved.
Live Vibrantly,
Dr. Dae
Dr. Dae's website: www.healthydaes.com
Dr. Dae's book: Daelicious! Recipes for Vibrant Living can be purchased @ www.healthydaes.com
Dr. Dae's Bio:
“Dr. Dae" (pronounced Dr. Day) Daemon Jones is a Naturopathic Physician who completed her training at the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine. She is certified as a General Practitioner by the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE). Dr. Dae provides tailored treatment to meet the unique needs of every individual she sees in her practice. She also provides specialized support for persons challenged by nutritional deficiencies, weight problems, hormonal and reproductive system disorders, attention deficit disorder and those experiencing chronic diseases. Dr. Dae is an adjunct faculty member for Smith Farm Center for Healing and the Arts. She is the author of Daelicious! Recipes for Vibrant Living. Dr. Dae is a featured chef with www.myfoodmyhealth.com. Dr. Dae is a regularly featured writer for the Elite GoogleNews Website empowher.com where she shares her personal and professional vision for living whole and living well. To learn more about Dr. Dae, her products and services, please visit her on the Web at www.Healthydaes.com.