Itching, burning, discomfort or redness in the intimate area… Faced with these symptoms, many women immediately think of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. An understandable reflex… but not always justified.
Treating without knowing, a reflex that will not help
In reality, intimate disorders are not systematically linked to an infection. And multiplying treatments haphazardly can sometimes delay, or even complicate, healing. Because to go faster, many women try to treat themselves alone with unsuitable treatments, targeting the symptoms without treating the real cause of the imbalance.
As Dr. Susanna Unsworth, women’s health specialist and medical expert at Intimina, explains:
“It’s not uncommon for women to blame vulvar or vaginal irritation on a yeast infection. They treat this type of problem whenever symptoms persist. However, this can delay getting the correct diagnosis.”
A yeast infection, when correctly identified, is usually quickly treatable. But if symptoms persist despite treatment, it is often a sign that the problem lies elsewhere.
Three main causes to distinguish
To preserve your intimate well-being, it is essential to determine whether the discomfort felt is of infectious, hormonal origin or linked to external irritation. As such, there are 3 main causes to be aware of. And determine, often with a health professional.
Vaginal infections
Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis have characteristic signs. An unusual odor, particularly a fishy odor in cases of vaginosis, abnormal, thick and grainy vaginal discharge for a yeast infection, or even intense localized pain should alert you.
These infections are due to an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome and require targeted medical treatment.
Hormonal variations
Certain intimate discomforts are directly linked to hormones. Persistent vaginal dryness, thinning of tissue or painful intercourse may occur at certain times of the menstrual cycle.
These symptoms are common during premenopause, menopause, breastfeeding or under the influence of certain contraceptives, due to a drop in estrogen.
Non-infectious irritations
Finally, itching, redness or burning sensations in the vulva, without change in vaginal discharge, are often a sign of external irritation. Aggressive or perfumed detergents, unsuitable hygiene products or clothes that are too tight can be the cause of these inconveniences… You still need to know!
Do not trivialize persistent symptoms
Dr. Unsworth also emphasizes that lasting intimate discomfort should never be ignored:
“Persistent problems can also indicate a dermatological problem such as lichen sclerosus – which can leave scars – or even vulvar cancer if left untreated. These symptoms are sometimes confused with yeast infections.”
If burning sensations or irritation persist despite the use of treatments available without a prescription, consulting a doctor becomes essential.
Better information for better care
Becoming informed and learning to observe your body allows you to escape the vicious circle of “false remedies”. Noting the onset of symptoms, their progress, changes in smell, consistency or sensation, as well as potential triggers such as stress or variations in the menstrual cycle, is a valuable aid in establishing an accurate diagnosis.
“Symptoms experienced in the vulva or vagina do not always indicate an infection. If we understand this, we are on the right path to recovery,” recalls Dr. Unsworth.
Without forgetting that taking care of your intimate health also involves simple everyday actions: not washing directly or douching, using gentle and appropriate products, and above all not letting discomfort set in.