Intimate Diaries

If you start feeling pain while having sex and you’ve never experienced it before, get it examined by your gynaecologist – it could be a yeast infection. Other symptoms including itching, irritation and a white discharge. The vulva also appears swollen and reddish.

CAUSE Yeast infection is caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans, which are tiny organisms that normally live in small numbers in your intimate area. When the acidic balance in this area is disrupted – possibly by menstruation, pregnancy, diabetes, antibiotics or birth control pills – yeast can grow and cause infection.

TREATMENT Medicine comes in a cream form that is applied internally with a special applicator or a suppository that’s inserted deep inside and allowed to dissolve on its own. A cream can also be applied on you vulva to help relieve itching. Be sure to get the right diagnosis from your doctor if you have the above symptoms. Take note that some of the symptoms are similar to other infections and treating yourself for a yeast infection when you could have another problem can make it worse.

PREVENTION

• Don’t douche, use deodorant sanitary pads or tampons, take bubble baths or use coloured and perfumed toilet rolls as they will affect the acidic balance.
• Wear cotton underwear to allow your crotch area to “breathe”. Avoid wearing tight-fitting pants and nylon panty hose.
• After a bath, dry your intimate area carefully and thoroughly before putting on your panties.
• Change out of wet swimsuits or damp clothes immediately – a warm and moist environment encourages yeast to grow.