Dear Readers,
D.E. is a 23-year-old mother who writes Lifeline from a Kingston address. For the past seven years she has experienced recurring vaginal infections up to three or more episodes per year. The discharge is usually heavy, odorous and burns. Several times recently it has occurred in relation to the monthly menses. Her private doctor, having observed this discharge, told her that it looked like yeast and Trichamoniasis.D.E. says her doctor has been saying this for seven years, so she has decided that she needs a second opinion.
'FREAKING' HER OUT
D.E. has only one intimate partner and says the recurring discharge is "freaking" her out, especially the burning which she is experiencing.
D.E. also asks LIFELINE if her partner should be treated also, although he is not exhibiting any symptoms.
D.E. has suffered with recurring vaginal discharge for over seven years. The discharge has often been odorous but more recently it "burns".
It is possible that the character and causative agent of the discharge has changed. Certainly, a HIGH VAGINAL SWAB should be taken and sent for culture to document the causative agent(s) and to suggest relevant treatment. The fact that the more recent discharges occur in relation to the monthly menses and are associated with a burning sensation would tend to suggest a yeast (candidal) vaginal infection although Herpes simplex 2 virus also needs to be excluded as it also causes vaginal burning and can occur in relation to the stressful monthly menses.
Certainly, investigations are necessary. It is also prudent to examine and investigate the sexual partner of an individual with very frequent recurrent discharges. Even if the person claims to have no genital complaints, examination may reveal problems which are not obvious, example prostatic infections.
Even in the absence of symptoms it is useful to treat the partner also to attempt to eliminate them as a possible source of infection. Of course, in a relationship where both parties are not monogamous, reinfections can still occur.
If despite these efforts the discharge persists then the person should see a specialist gynaecologist for further assessment, and it should not take seven years in order to do so!
INFECTIONS ORGANISMS
The infections organisms which cause most cases of vaginal infections are candida (yeast) gardnorella vaginal is (bacteria) and trichomorias Vaginilis (protozoa).
To that group we can add the herpes simplex type 2 virus as a possible cause of a vaginal discharge associated with burning recurring vaginitis especially recurring yeast infections can signal other health problems such as immune deficiency or diabetes.
Eliminate refined foods, sugars, alcohol, dairy products and simple carbohydrates from the diet.
Increase intake of lean protein (chicken and fish whole grains and fresh vegetables).
rink at least eight glasses of pure water daily. Take acidophilus supplements which help to restore the balance of organisms in the vagina.B>Take garlic several times daily. It has both antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Vitamin A, C and E help to maintain membrane integrity and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Wear 100 per cent cotton clothing and cotton underwear. Loose-fitting clothing is best.
Wash underwear in hot water with Chlorine bleach added to kill the organisms causing vaginitis.
If wearing pantyhose, the crotch should be made of cotton, or cut a slit lengthwise to the crotch to keep the area cool.
Keep Cool.
AJM.
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