My vagina itches a lot and there is curdy discharge. What to do?
A sudden increased itching in the vagina along with curd-like discharge. What is it and how to get rid of the same?
Vaginal itching and curd-like vaginal discharge mainly indicates yeast infection (Candidiasis), which is a very common infection in females. Medical disorders such as diabetes, being pregnant, or simply wearing tight panties can lead to the condition. If you develop symptoms of vaginal yeast infection you should report immediately to your physician who will perform tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment mainly consists of oral and topical medicines along with certain preventive measures.
Consideration
Itching in the vagina itches is commonly present in females. However, if this itching is accompanied by a white, curd-like discharge it may indicate the presence of yeast infection called Candidiasis.
Vaginal infection due to yeast is common in most of the women. The yeast is also known as Candida. A minor amount of yeast is present naturally in a female’s vagina, mouth and digestive tract. This naturally occurring yeast may turn into an infection when there is an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina itches. The infection may occur either before or after the menstrual cycle. If not managed in time, the condition can get worse.
Vaginal yeast infection may occur due to:
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Wearing tight panties
- Taking contraceptive pills
- HIV/AIDS
- Steroids
- Obesity
- Taking prescribed antibiotics for conditions, such as acne or throat infection
- Eating food with excess calories, such as sugar
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
Itching and vaginal discharge are the two most common symptoms seen. The discharge is often white in colour, curd-like and is odourless. Redness, soreness, rash, irritation and burning around the vagina are the other symptoms that may be present. Sometimes, peeing may also cause pain. Itching can cause loss of interest in sexual activity.
You should immediately consult your physician in case there is frequent curd-like discharge on your panty along with itching in the vagina. Your physician will perform a pelvic examination and take a sample of the vaginal discharge with a cotton swab and send it to the lab for further testing.
Vaginal infection can be managed by taking oral medicines or by applying vagina itches creams and ointments or suppository. Your physician will discuss all the treatment options in detail, and prescribe the one preferred by you.
Common medicines given to control vagina itches yeast infection may include:
- Butoconazole (Gynazole)
- Miconazole (Lotrimin)
- Monistat
- Teraconazole (Terazol)
- Fluconazole (Diflucan)
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Both the sexual partners are advised to use latex condoms during sexual intercourse.
The infection should be managed as soon as diagnosed to prevent any adverse effects.
The itching and curd-like vaginal discharge can be prevented by:
- Not douching
- Wearing loosely fitted cotton panties
- Changing wet panties immediately after swimming
- Taking antibiotics as and when prescribed by the doctor
- Eating a well-balanced diet
- Washing panties with hot water
- Avoiding frequent hot tub baths
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