Vaginitis, vaginosis how to avoid them
HYGIENE
Avoid scented products, bubble bath, detergent, and shampoo (the vulva is a mucous membrane which, like the mouth, does not need to be washed with soap; it is better to wash yourself with water or with unscented cleansers such as SpectroJel or Cetaphil).
Avoid using talcum powder (baby powder), perfumes, and deodorants on the genital organs.
Wash underwear with a mild soap (e.g. Zero, Ivory Snow). Do not use detergent, bleach or fabric softener. Rinse twice.
Many lotions, creams, and powders can be irritating or allergenic; for example, creams with Vitamin E, aloe, local anesthetics or antibiotics.
Avoid vaginal douches and feminine deodorant sprays.
It is better to shower than to take a hot bath. If you take a bath, make sure that any cleaning product has been rinsed off and that you don't wash your hair in the bath. Ideally, you should rinse your genitals with a hand-held shower head after each bath or shower.
Always wipe from front to back after a bowel movement.
TAMPONS, SANITARY NAPKINS, AND PANTILINERS
Avoid using these products when you are not menstruating. Vaginal discharge is normal and physiological and the amount may vary depending on where you are in your cycle and how much you exercise. Amount of discharge may increase with an increase in temperature and humidity and may also be caused by the use of pantiliners.
Use unscented products and choose a cotton-based product. Avoid products with a plastic base, which do not breathe (e.g., ‘dry weave' or ‘aerodry' or ‘always').
CLOTHING
Avoid wearing panties overnight so that your genitals can breathe.
During the day, wear 100% cotton, white panties. Avoid coloured or synthetic fabrics.
Avoid wearing body suits, nylons, spandex or lycra fabrics. Wear stockings that go to mid-thigh or cut the crotch out of a good quality pair of stockings.
Avoid wearing a bathing suit for long periods of time, especially if it's damp.
Avoid covering the genital area too warmly.
HEAT AND IRRITATION
Avoid excessive heat caused by an electric blanket, plastic mattress or mattress cover, vinyl seats, etc.
Avoid crossing your legs or sitting for long periods of time.
Coloured or scented toilet paper can be irritating, as well as brands that produce fluff (e.g. Cottonelle).
Shaving or using a depilatory can irritate pubic hair roots and promote ingrown hairs.
Shaving or using a depilatory can irritate pubic hair roots and promote ingrown hairs.
SEXUAL PRACTICES
Spermicides (found on condoms and in contraceptive foams, gels, and sponges) can be irritating.
Do not have any genital contact after anal contact.
Some situations can create lubrication problems (e.g. the use of certain hormonal contraceptives, hormonal imbalance in menopause or after childbirth). You can talk to your doctor about re-establishing hormonal balance. You may also use water-based lubricants (K-Y, Muko).
Watch for irritation caused by saliva, a moustache or a beard.
Irritation can also be caused by frequent sexual relations or sex during your period. If you experience itching or a burning sensation after sex, apply cool compresses with Aveeno powder for 10 minutes.
TREATMENTS
If you think that you might have a vaginal infection, it is best to have your doctor determine which type of infection you might have or call the STI Clinic at (418)724-8338 before trying an over-the-counter treatment.
If the use of antibiotics has given you a yeast infection (Candida), talk to your doctor.
Note: Regular yogurt does not contain the right strains of yeast.