Resolved question:
I have had more than normal vaginal discharge for most of my life. I believe it has caused vaginal itching that I experience daily for almost 5 years. I have seen local doctors and nothing gets better. I also get severe cramps which I have recently been placed on a birth control pill to help with that and that part is doing better. It now seems that the discharge and itching are causing skin to dry out and almost cracks my skin and causes major irritation. I am wondering if there is anything that I can do to minimize the discharge hoping to eliminate itching. I have done the Monostat 3 day treatment and that did help for the three days but was back next day. Like I said, I think it is caused from the discharge. Please help! Is there something naturally I can do?
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
OBGYN
Hi,
Thanks for your question at DoctorSpring.
Firstly, you mentioned that you never ovulated, or had a proper period.
That itself points to a gross hormonal imbalance in your body. Decrease in the feminine hormone estrogen could be a great culprit leading to dryness and cracking of the skin, thus making it fertile ground for super added infections and discharges.
I would ask you to consult your Gynecologist for a detailed evaluation, including basic hormonal levels, and then consider potential local hormone therapy, in the form of estrogen creams and ointments.
Also, if you are harbouring a long standing infection, a proper culture and swab of the local area will isolate the particular organism, and help in formulating targetted and effective treatment.
Hence , a visit to a qualified gynecologist is a must instead of self medication.
That said and done, there ARE various home practices which will minimize your chances of having vaginal discharge and recurrent infections.
The following pointers will serve you well
1. make sure you stay dry and loose all the time. Wear non allergic breathable cotton undergarments, and loose clothing, over nylon and synthetic clothes. Infections thrive in moist and warm areas and in prolonged wentess. Do not wear wet swimsuits for long.
2. Do not scrub over vigorously or clean the private parts very harshly. Avoid touching, rubbing, scrubbing, douching, use of medicated soaps and cleansers. Simply bathe away the secretions with lukewarm water. wash your clothes separately with a dash of vinegar to eliminate yeast infections. Wash thoroughly after intercourse and after using the washroom. Avoid using public toilets.
3. Have lots of yoghurt in your diet, as it contains great natural bacteria to fight infection. Natural foods like cranberry juice, fresh garlic cloves, straweberry, kiwifruit , lemon etc help in fighting infection. Have fresh basil tea with rosemary and thyme. Exercise regularly and eat fresh and healthy.
4. Screen yourself and your partner for sexually transmitted disease. Better use a condom till your infection subsides.
Take care, and feel free to discuss further.