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“Rain is grace, rain is the sky descending to the Earth, without rain, there would be no life."
Along with the joy, the rain brings about certain health issues with the cold and humidity. Women become more susceptible to vaginal and urinary infections as the humidity accelerates bacterial or fungal growth.
Vaginal infections can be caused by:
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Bacterias (bacterial vaginosis, chlamydial infections, gonorrhoea)
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Fungi (candidiasis)
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Viruses (HPV, HSV)
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Parasites (trichomoniasis)
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Usage of irritants like sprays or douches
Certain conditions can make the women more prone to vaginal infections like:
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Poor hygiene
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Wearing tight, non-absorbent underwear
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Use of irritants
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Using tampoons for longer hours
Vaginal candidiasis is the most common infection in women during these times.
Some of the common symptoms are:
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Vaginal/vulval discarge
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Vulval/vaginal itching
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Redness/swelling in the private parts
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Vaginal soreness
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Rashes in the private parts
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Burning sensation while urinating or during intercourse
A simple pelvic examination by your doctor can diagnose most infections. In certain situations, the discharge may need to be tested in a laboratory. If your partner informs you of any sexually transmitted infection that they have developed, please see a doctor even if you do not have any symptoms. In postmenopausal women, due to the absence of hormones, the vagina becomes dry which in turn may cause vaginal itching and burning. Estrogen creams will help ease these symptoms. Treatment of these infections are generally effective and proper diagnosis will ensure that you receive the right treatment. You should avoid intercourse during the course of your treatment.
Not all infections can be prevented, but to prevent some, it is necessary that you maintain good personal hygiene. Clean your private parts with lukewarm water and avoid scented soaps. Clean the area once or twice a day and do not douche (Cleaning the vagina from inside) the vagina as it destroys the protective bacteria. Wipe and keep the genital area dry after urinating. Clean the area from front to back to prevent the bacteria from the anal region from entering the vagina.
Pubic hair plays a protective role by preventing the spread of bacteria and thereby reducing the chance of an infection. It also reduces friction during sexual intercourse and prevents the transmission of bacteria. Hence do not shave/trim pubic hair often during the rains.
Avoid using wet wipes with chemicals to dry the area, regular toilet paper will do. Urinating before and after intercourse reduces the growth of bacteria and also prevents infection. Clean the genital area after intercourse. Avoid using female hygiene washes. Wear breathable clothes, cotton underwear is the best choice to prevent vaginal infections. Tight clothes can reduce airflow and increase irritations and the risk of developing rashes. Breathable ones keep the genitals airy and help them stay dry.
Avoid wearing tight lowers or shorts or skinny jeans as they reduce ventilation, retains sweat in the vaginal areas and can cause rashes or infection. Do not wear wet clothes for a longer time as they retain moisture and increase the incidence of skin infections and rashes. It also acts as a breeding ground for organisms and increases the occurrence of vaginal infections. Maintain good menstrual hygiene. Change the sanitary pads every 4 hours and tampons every 2 hours irrespective of the soakage.
Change menstrual cups every 8 hours. Do not use scented pads. Pads in general can cause rashes and infections due to increased humidity. Tampons can cause vaginal dryness and increase the occurrence of an infection. Menstrual cups should be used wherever possible. Stay well hydrated as water and salts are lost rapidly from our bodies. Make sure you consume at least 2 to 3 litres of water every day. This keeps both vaginal and urinary infections at bay. Eat curd to maintain the vaginal pH. Use condoms to protect yourself against infections.
To conclude, identify your individual risk factors and make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of vaginal infections. Do not self medicate and see your doctor who can diagnose and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Looking for the best gynaecology hospital in Whitefield, Bangalore then visit Manipal Hospital they have some of the best gynaecologist in Bangalore with many years of experience in handling cases related to women reproductive system.
Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Manipal Hospital, Whitefield, Bangalore
