The vagina is a stretchy, muscular canal that’s a vital part of the body’s reproductive system and is what makes pregnancy and childbirth possible. But, as with any part of the body, issues with the vagina can occur throughout your life. Some concerns require minor adjustments to your lifestyle, while others need more intensive treatment.
What Are Vaginal Issues?
There are a wide variety of vaginal issues, and they can occur for a variety of different reasons. Some of the vaginal issues we treat at MAIA include the following:
- Bacterial vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis can often causes a watery, ‘fishy’-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Bartholin’s cysts: Bartholin’s cysts develop if the ducts of the Bartholin’s glands, found inside the vagina, become blocked.
- Vaginal bleeding: Vaginal bleeding can happen at times other than during your periods.
- Vaginal discharge: Some vaginal discharge is usually healthy, but it can be a sign of an infection.
- Vaginal dryness: Vaginal dryness is most common in females who have gone through menopause.
- Vaginal and groin irritation and infection: Irritation around the sensitive skin of the groin or vagina can have many causes. Your provider will help you determine the cause and build a treatment plan to help you find relief.
- Vaginal thrush: Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection caused by the candida species of fungus.
- Vaginismus: Vaginismus occurs when the muscles around your vagina tighten involuntarily.
- Vaginitis: An infection or change in the normal balance of vaginal yeast and bacteria can cause inflammation of the vagina or vaginitis. Symptoms can include discharge, odor, itching, and pain. Common forms of vaginitis include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and trichomoniasis.
What Causes Vaginal Issues?
There are a wide variety of causes for vaginal issues. The exact cause can depend on the exact issue. Some of the most common causes of vaginal concerns include hormonal changes, unprotected sex, certain medications, some hygiene products, and health conditions that affect the immune system.
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What to Expect From Vaginal Issues
The type of symptoms you see with a vaginal issue depends upon the exact disorder. Some of the most common symptoms we see at MAIA in Downers Grove include:
- Change in color, odor, or amount of vaginal discharge
- Vaginal redness
- Vaginal itching, pain, or a burning sensation
- Vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause
- A mass or bulge in the vagina
- Pain during sex
How to Prevent Vaginal Issues
There are some ways you can protect your vaginal health and, in turn, your overall health. Some of the best ways to prevent the issues we discussed above include:
- Practice safe sex by using condoms and cleaning toys after each use
- Get vaccinated. The HPV and hepatitis B vaccine can help protect you from serious conditions.
- Do Kegels. These pelvic exercises can help tone your muscles and prevent weakness and prolapse.
- Know your medications. As some medications can cause side effects associated with the vagina, it’s important to know if your medications are causing issues you’re experiencing.
- Limit alcohol and smoking. Alcohol use can impair the function of the vagina as well as other aspects of your physical and mental health.
Treatment Options
Your treatment options depend on the type of vaginal issue you’re struggling with. The options can include medications, surgery, lifestyle changes, and more. Dr. Wolowick and Dr. Mitchell will listen to your concerns, perform an exam, run some tests, and determine your diagnosis so they can build the best treatment plan for you.
Schedule A Consultation
Don’t struggle with vaginal issues alone. Our team at MAIA will ensure you receive the compassionate care and treatment you need. Book your appointment today by calling our Downers Grove, IL office at 630-320-6703 or using our online contact form. We happily serve the Chicago, Naperville, Aurora, and Downers Grove communities!
