The disorders and infections that can affect the vagina are many and varied. They can manifest themselves with various symptoms, such as:

• itching, internal and in the vulva
• abnormal, unusually colored and / or smelly secretions
• sensations of burning, pain, irritation
• changes in the skin around the vagina
• abnormal vaginal dryness
• the presence of a “lump” or growth inside the vagina

Most often, vaginal affections are simple irritations or infections that are easily treated. It is always advisable to consult a doctor or a gynecologist to obtain a precise diagnosis and, if necessary, carry out examinations (samples) to find the cause.

The vagina shelters a complex bacterial flora which makes it possible to maintain a balance (pH, etc.) and to defend the environment against the external aggressions. It can happen that a bacteria or a pathogenic fungus proliferate and cause an infection, in case of fatigue, weakened immune system, irritation, etc. Often, it is a “microbe” naturally present in the vagina which grows excessively and causes an imbalance of the flora.

Thus, vaginal infections are often caused by:

• microscopic fungi (like yeast), which causes yeast infection. Most often it’s yeast Candida albicans who is involved. This is called candidiasis.
• Bacteria, causing bacterial vaginosis. Many bacteria that are part of the normal flora of the vagina, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, can overgrow and cause infections.
• Bacteria from the anal area (faecal vaginitis)
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs or STIs), such as syphilis, chlamydial infections, gonorrhea, genital herpes, etc.

Other problems can also affect the vagina. A simple dryness, linked to a hormonal imbalance or to menopause, can cause irritation or itching.

More rarely, allergies (in particular an allergy to latex, to periodic protections or to certain toiletries) can cause itching, redness, rashes.

Some skin diseases like psoriasis or eczema can also occasionally affect the vagina and genital area.

Cancers of the vulvovaginal area are also possible, although rare, especially in young women.

Finally, vaginal disorders, such as pain, can have psychic origins. Fear of intercourse, tension, traumatic previous experiences, can, among other things, lead to pain or unpleasant sensations in the vagina.

Whether it is itching, abnormal discharge, pain, vaginal disorders are very unpleasant.

They can also alter the sex life of those affected, making intimate intercourse embarrassing or even painful.

It is common for women with vaginal irritation to self-medicate, including using products against yeast infection. However, it is important to consult your doctor because the symptoms can be caused by other microorganisms or diseases. It is all the more important to consult in case of pregnancy (certain conditions are dangerous for the fetus), when there is associated pain or bleeding.

The solutions obviously depend on the cause. When it comes to a vaginal infection whose cause is identified (yeast or bacteria), effective treatments (local, most often in the form of creams or eggs) may be prescribed.

Personal hygiene advice also helps limit the occurrence of infection:

• avoid overly aggressive washing, favoring soft intimate products
• ban douching
• do not wear tight clothes
• prefer cotton underwear to synthetic underwear
• always wipe from front to back after having a bowel movement
• have safe sex
• use a lubricant in case of vaginal dryness to avoid irritation