are you in favor of giving contraceptive to teenagers?

Thursday, February 21, 2008

What are the signs of abnormal vaginal discharge?

Some signs that may indicate an abnormal vaginal discharge and infection include:


*Changes in color, consistency, or amount
*Constant, increased vaginal discharge
*Presence of itching, discomfort, or any rash
*Vaginal burning during urination
*The presence of blood when it’s not your period time
*Cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge
*A foul odor accompanied by yellowish, greenish, or grayish white vaginal discharge


If you have a vaginal discharge along with any of these signs, consult your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment. Vaginal discharges are common and you it’s likely you’ll have at least one vaginal infection in your life. The most common vaginal infection is bacterial vaginosis. Vaginal yeast infections are also very common and over-the-counter treatments are available; however, it’s important to never self-diagnose a vaginal yeast infection unless you have previously been diagnosed by your health care provider. Another common vaginal infection is called trichomoniasis.

Thursday, February 14, 2008

let's talk about vaginal discharge...


Do you know the difference between normal vaginal discharge and abnormal vaginal discharge? Did you know that having a vaginal discharge is normal? Let’s take a look at various types of vaginal discharges so that you’ll know when you have an abnormal vaginal discharge.

The Natural Vagina
The basic function of you vagina is to provide a route from the outside of your vagina to your uterus and the rest of your internal reproductive system. The natural, acidic, pH of your vagina acts to prevent infections. The acidic nature of your vagina is caused by natural, good, bacteria produced by your body. When your vagina is healthy, the vagina keeps itself clean and in a healthy state by producing secretions of normal vaginal discharge. The natural balance of the vagina can be disrupted by anything that interferes with its’ normal environment.


What is Normal Vaginal Discharge?

First it’s important to understand that all women experience some amount of vaginal discharge. Glands in your vaginal and cervix produce small amounts of fluid that flows out of your vagina everyday taking with it old cells that line the vagina. Your normal vaginal discharge helps to clean the vagina, as well as keep it lubricated and free from infection and other germs. A normal vaginal discharge does not have a foul odor and usually has no odor at all. Normal vaginal discharge often appears clear or milky when it dries on your clothing; occasionally you may notice white spots or a normal vaginal discharge that is thin and stringy looking.

Other things that may cause changes in the appearance or consistency of your vaginal discharge include:
-Your menstrual cycle
-Emotional stress
-Pregnancy
-Any prescribed or OTC medications you take including hormones such as in the Pill
-Sexual excitement
-Breastfeeding
-Ovulation
-Your diet


Other things that can upset the natural pH balance of your vagina and lead to vaginal infections include vaginal douches, feminine hygiene products, perfumed or deodorant soaps, antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, or the presence of another infection.

Thursday, February 7, 2008

How does your period affect your vaginal discharge?

Your menstrual cycle has a significant affect on the type of vaginal discharge you experience throughout the month. Did you know you’re more likely to experience vaginal infections just before or during your period? This is because the pH balance of your vagina varies during your monthly cycle causing the acidic level of your vagina to be at its’ lowest point a few days before and during your period. About halfway between your periods an increase in vaginal discharge that appears clear is normal. This increased wetness and clear vaginal discharge is an indication of ovulation.