Did you know that more than 75% of women are likely to get a vaginal yeast infection? Having an unhealthy vagina can be quite devastating and can affect your libido and fertility. It can interfere with your relationship, cause stress and lower your self-confidence.
Unfortunately, any minor infection down presents a threat and can cause health problems. If you notice anything different, consult your gynecologist as fast as you can.
Meanwhile, here are the 5 warning signs that indicate your vagina is unhealthy:
1. Itching and Burning
Constant burning and itching sensation can indicate a great number of vaginal infections. Itching and burning is caused when the bad and harmful bacteria outnumber the good bacteria in your vagina. Itching and an inflammatory sensation are signs of yeast infection. Itching can be also caused by creams, soaps and contraceptive foams.
2. Bleeding During and After Intercourse
Bleeding during and after intercourse can be a sign of vaginal infection, vaginal tear, STD’s and vaginal dryness. The friction caused by intercourse irritates dry skin and caused spotting. Bleeding during or after sex when you’re going through menopause can indicate cervical cancer. Remember, any abnormal bleeding is a cause of concern and you need to have a check with your gynecologist.
3. Vaginal Atrophy
When your body produces less estrogen, your vagina becomes thin, dry and inflamed. This condition is called vaginal atrophy and the most common symptom is pain during intercourse. This condition mainly occurs after menopause and during breastfeeding.
4. Bumps or Blisters
If you notice a bump on your outer vagina, you need to check it with your gyno ASAP. It might be an indication of vulvar and vaginal cancer. This cancerous bump mainly occurs as a mole at first but with time, it changes the color and texture and turns into a hard bump. The bump mainly occurs near the clitoris and it’s usually dark brown or black. On the other hand, if you notice blisters, that might be a sign of STD’s, mainly genital herpes.
5. Painful Urination
Painful urination can sometimes be a sign of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection. Vaginal infections are mainly caused by soap, creams or leaving your tampon in for too long.
