When it comes to vaginal health, there’s a lot of confusion and misinformation. Women are just not taught about their vaginal health until they go to the GP unsure whether they have a problem, and most women would probably admit their "vaginal literacy" is pretty dire. That's why we asked Stigma Health’s sexual health expert Dr Claire Pickett to give us the facts on how to have - and maintain - good vaginal health.
First, let's talk about pH balance. "pH" means "potential hydrogen" and measures the levels and activity of your vagina's hydrogen ions - more leads to a lower pH (more acidic), and fewer leads to a higher pH (more basic/alkaline).
The vagina thrives in a slightly acidic environment, with a "normal" pH of around 3.8 to 4.5. This acidity keeps the bad bacteria at bay and helps the good bacteria, particularly Lactobacilli, flourish. When this balance gets thrown off, you might notice some unwelcome symptoms like unusual discharge, odour, itching, or irritation.
Vaginal discharge - which you'll notice in your underwear or on toilet paper when you going to the bathroom - is one way to know whether things are okay down below, but it's a bit of a shape-shifter, varying in consistency, colour, and amount throughout your menstrual cycle. If it's clear and stretchy, you may be ovulating. If it's white and thick (like an egg white), you're probably close to getting your period.
But some changes to vaginal discharge can signal you may have an infection. Here are some things to look out for:
STIs are infections you can get (or pass on) via sexual contact. They can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. Here are some common STIs and their symptoms:
Regular testing is also crucial, especially if you have multiple partners. In Australia, Stigma Health offers convenient online STI testing, giving you an easy and discreet way to look after your sexual health.
Keeping yourself healthy "down below" involves good hygiene practices, safe sex, and self-care. Here are some things you can do to ensure your vagina is healthy and happy:
If you're not sure whether your vaginal symptoms are normal, or if you might have an infection, the best way to find out is to make an appointment with your GP or other health professional. You might feel a bit embarrassed, but they will know how to treat your symptoms and help you to feel better as soon as possible. Persistent symptoms, unusual discharge, strong odors, and discomfort should never be ignored and definitely need to be investigated.
Understanding the difference between normal vaginal health and infections is key to maintaining your vaginal wellbeing. By recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can ensure your vagina stays on the healthy side.
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