The vaginal area is a very sensitive and intimate part of the body, so when something is off about it, it can be incredibly uncomfortable and awkward for women to talk about. There are also many stigmas that exist around vaginal health, often leading women to avoid talking to their doctor about symptoms that could end up worsening if ignored.
“So many women struggle with these issues, but vaginal health issues are incredibly common,” says Page Kimber, M.D., a gynecologist at Henry Ford Health. “Most women will experience some sort of vaginal health issue at some point in their life.”
Common (And Treatable) Vaginal Health Issues
According to Dr. Kimber, the types of vaginal health concerns someone might have depends a lot on age. For example, pre-menopausal women under 50 are more likely to experience vaginal infections and STDs whereas post-menopausal women more commonly experience vaginal dryness or excess discharge related to changing hormones.
Some of the most reported vaginal health issues include:
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV): An infection caused when there is an imbalance of the bacterial makeup, or flora, of the vagina. Symptoms often include vaginal discomfort, discharge that is white or grayish in color, and an unpleasant odor.
- Yeast infection: Caused by a decline in good bacteria naturally found in the vagina, a yeast infection can lead to symptoms of itchiness and discharge that is thick like cottage cheese.
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): There are more than 20 different types of STDs and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Some are more common than others – like herpes, which over 70% of people have whether it is oral herpes or genital herpes. While many STDs are asymptomatic, some common symptoms include vulvar or vaginal irritation and irregular discharge.
- Painful intercourse: If you experience pain with intimacy as well as unusual discharge, symptoms related to BV, a yeast infection or an STD, or even if something just feels off, talk with your doctor about next steps. “There can also be psychological or physical barriers that can cause pain during intercourse,” says Dr. Kimber. “If you are experiencing anything like this, this is a completely valid reason to talk with your doctor.”
Best Practices For Avoiding Vaginal Health Issues
Sometimes, vaginal health issues are unavoidable. But there are a few best practices for vaginal hygiene that Dr. Kimber recommends that can potentially reduce your risk of having issues going forward.
- Avoid douching or cleaning inside the vagina. The vagina is a biome that is self-cleaning, but it is important to keep that balance. While many products are available to clean the vagina or make it smell different, it is important to know that these products can disrupt your vaginal flora and lead to vaginal health issues.
- Use non-scented soaps, lotions and detergents. The added fragrances in commonly used products can often lead to irritation and increase your chances of vaginal health issues. Look for products that are hypoallergenic or fragrance free.
- Don’t wear thongs or lacy underwear. These materials can increase the risk of offsetting your vaginal flora. Choose underwear that is made of 100% cotton instead.
- Practice safe sex. Barrier methods of birth control (condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps) can help prevent the spread of STDs.
Dr. Kimber notes that at any point, if you are experiencing symptoms related to a vaginal health condition, it is best to avoid intimacy until you see a doctor. Being intimate may risk spreading a possible STD or exasperating a potential issue further. If you can’t get in to see your gynecologist as quickly as you’d like, you can also visit an urgent care or walk-in clinic to get tested.
Removing The Fear Around Seeing Your Gynecologist
Regardless of if you struggle with vaginal health issues or not, many women face a fear of seeing the gynecologist in general. Vaginal exams can often make patients feel vulnerable and uncomfortable, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms of vaginal health issues as well.
While these exams may be uncomfortable, they should never be painful. If you have anxiety about a vaginal exam, talk with your provider first. You might consider setting up a safe word with your provider to set boundaries during your exam. If at any point you feel too uncomfortable or are in pain during the exam, you can use your safe word and your provider will stop the exam with no questions asked. Dr. Kimber stresses that finding a provider who makes you feel comfortable throughout your appointment and during vaginal exams is most important.
“Going to the gynecologist should be an opportunity to unburden some of your concerns in a place where it feels completely normal and acceptable to do so,” says Dr. Kimber. “Finding a provider who is right for you makes all the difference.”
Reviewed by Dr. Page Kimber, a gynecologist who sees patients at Henry Ford Medical Center – New Center One.
