Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a form of vaginal inflammation. BV is formed due to an overgrowth of bacteria that is naturally in the vagina.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Some people do not show any symptoms
- Foul/ fishy smelling vaginal odour
- Vaginal itching
- Thin white, gray, or green discharge
- Burning during urination
What to do:
- See a doctor for testing and an antibiotic prescription
- Use protection during intercourse
- Refrain from douching
- Limit frequent new sexual partners and/or multiple sexual partners
- Use unscented soap on the outside of your vagina
- Never put products on the inside of your vagina unless specified by a doctor
- Use unscented pads and tampons
When to call a Doctor:
- You have vaginal discharge that is abnormal to you
- Your vaginal discharge smells abnormally foul or fishy and is associated with a fever
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs are bacterial or viral infections that occur from sexual contact. They can be transmitted via oral, vaginal and anal sex. Follow this link to learn more about the different STIs.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
A UTI is an infection that effects your urinary system. Both men and women can develop a UTI but women are at a higher risk.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Consistent, strong feeling of having to pee
- Burning while urinating
- Women may experience pelvic pain
- Cloudy, sometimes red, bright pink urine
What to do:
- Drink lots of fluids, especially water
- Wipe from front to back after using the restroom
- Avoid irritating feminine products such as douches, powders and deodorant sprays
- Go to the bathroom shortly after sexual intercourse
When to call a Doctor:
- You should seek medical attention right away for a UTI. Untreated UTIs may lead to further complications such as kidney infections.
Yeast Infection (Vaginal)
A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection that can effect a women’s vagina. A woman’s vagina naturally has fungus and bacteria; however, when there is an overgrowth of fungus a yeast infection may occur.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Itchy, irritated, or sore vagina
- Burning feeling during urination or sexual intercourse
- Cottage cheese looking discharge– thick, white and odourless
- Redness or swelling of the vulva
How to prevent a yeast infection:
- Wear cotton underwear
- Avoid tight fitting clothing
- Immediately change out of wet clothing
- Avoid warm baths and hot tubs
How to help your yeast infection:
- Use the “Prevent a Yeast Infection” tips on the left hand side
- Use a over-the-counter medication (such as Canesten)
- Use a medicated cream to sooth the itch (such as Canesten)
When to call a Doctor:
- Your symptoms continue even after taking an over-the-counter antifungal vaginal cream, vaginal suppository or oral medication
- You develop other symptoms