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Vulvovaginal health

Vulvovaginal health refers to the health and sanitation of the human female
vulva and vagina. Problems affecting this area include:

   * Infection with Candida albicans (candidiasis or "yeast infection")
   * Bacterial vaginosis (BV) associated with the Gardnerella, formerly
     called "nonspecific vaginitis"
   * Trichomoniasis
   * Vulvodynia
   * Cervical cancer (detected by the Pap smear)
   * Bladder infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), cystitis, Urethritis
   * Cancer of the vulva

The vulva and vagina have a "normal flora" of "friendly" microorganisms
(including the lactobacillus which turns milk into yogurt) which help to
keep the area healthy. When the normal balance is disturbed, an infection
can result.

The generic term for infection of the vagina is vaginitis. Symptoms may
include an unusual or unpleasant discharge, itching, or pain during
intercourse. But vaginal infections may also be present without any
noticeable symptoms.

The following measures are advisable for keeping the vulva and vagina healthy:

   * Washing once a day or so with soap and water. Other measures are seldom
     necessary or advisable. Two notable examples: So-called "feminine
     hygiene sprays" are unnecessary, may be generally harmful, and have
     been known to cause severe allergic reactions. Vaginal douching is
     generally not necessary and has been implicated in helping to cause
     bacterial vaginosis (BV) and candidiasis ("yeast infections").
   * After using the toilet, wipe from the front toward the back to avoid
     introducing bacteria from the anal area into the vulva.
   * Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently and as soon as possible
     when you feel the need, to help flush bacteria out of the urinary tract
     and avoid urinary tract infections. For the same reason, try to urinate
     before and after sex.
   * Change out of a wet swimsuit or other wet clothes as soon as possible.
   * Avoid fragrances, colors, and "deodorants" in products that contact the
     vulva/vagina: sanitary pads, tampons, toilet paper. Some women who are
     sensitive to these substances should also avoid bubble baths and some
     fabric detergents and softeners.
   * Avoid wearing leather trousers, tight jeans, panties made of nylon or
     other synthetic fabrics, or pantyhose without an all-cotton crotch (not
     cotton covered by nylon - cut out the nylon panel if necessary).
   * Wear skirts without panties or pantyhose whenever possible, for example
     at home or when driving. Sleep without panties: eight hours a day is
     better than nothing.
   * Anything which has been in contact with the anal area (see anal sex)
     should be thoroughly washed with soap and water or a similar
     disinfectant before coming in contact with the vulva or vagina.
   * Use condoms, practice safer sex, know your sex partners, ask sex
     partners to practice basic hygiene (soap and water) of the genitals.

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