Vaginal Infection

What is a vaginal infection appointment? What is it for?

A vaginal infection appointment is usually a consultation visit and sometimes a physical exam to discuss vaginal symptoms, recommend prevention and offer treatment if indicated. This visit may also include a recommendation for STI testing depending on your symptoms.

Symptoms associated with a vaginal infection

Vaginal infection symptoms can vary but some common indications that an infection might be present include:

• The color, amount, odor, or texture of your discharge has changed.
• You are experiencing itching or irritation in your vagina or vulva.
• There is a burning sensation, especially during sex or when urinating.
• Your vulva is swelling or has increased redness.
• You are experiencing vaginal pain and soreness.

When should you schedule a vaginal infection appointment?

Many women might have been

• You have taken a full course of over the counter medication and your symptoms are still present.
• You have a history of chronic vaginal infections.
• This is the first time you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above -- Or if a new symptom has appeared.
• You've had multiple sexual partners or you recently introduced a new partner.
• You have fever, chills, or pelvic pain.

Even if you have been

What to expect during a vaginal infection appointment

If your symptoms are typical to what you've experienced in the past, a virtual visit might suffice to accurately asses the situation and perscribe any medications needed. During a virtual visit, your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any current medications you are taking. Your provider might recommend over-the-counter or self-care techniques to help manage your symptoms. Additionally, antifungal or antibiotic medications might be perscribed to treat the infection. In some cases, your provider will recommend additional testing to confirm your symptoms. But this is not always necessary.

Tia members can also schedule an in-person vaginal infection appointment. Your provider will review your symptoms prior to performing a pelvic exam with a swab collection. This sample will then be sent to the lab for confirmation of diagnosis, which can take up to 24 days. In some cases, your provider can treat you simply based on a visual examination -- in efforts to relieve your symptoms -- while awaiting lab confirmation.

Potential treatment plans for vaginal infections

There are a variety of ways to treat a vaginal infection depending on the diagnosis and severity. Your provider might recommend/perscribe:

Lifestyle/Diet Changes

• Lowering saturated fat intake: Consuming lots of saturated fat can increase the pH (aka acidity) of your vagina which increases the risk of Bacterial vaginosis. Try adding more olive oil, nuts, and avocados into your diet.
• Increaseing fiber intake: Fiber is an amazing prebiotic. This means it stimulates the growth of and maintenance of desired gut bacteria. Incorporate more onions, bananas, garlic, apples and oats into your diet.
• Vitamin D: Low levels of Vitamin D have been associated with a higher risk of Bacterial vaginosis. We recommend starting with 2000 IU daily.
• Probiotics: Probiotics, either supplements or whole foods, may improve your symptoms and prevent a potential infection. We like adding more yogurt, sauerkraut, miso, pickles and kimchi into your diet.

Medications

• Monistat: This is an over-the-counter antifungal ointment that can treat yeast infections.
• Boric acid: This weak acid may stop bacteria or yeast from continuing to grow. It may also help in restoring your vaginal acidity and re-establish the ideal environment for beneficial vaginal flora to return. It is important to only use it as a vaginal suppository as it can be fatal if taken orally.
• Topical or oral perscription medications: There are a variety of different medications that might be perscribed depending on the diagnosis.

Vaginal Health Recommendations

• Considering a menstrual cup: There may be a reduced association of using a menstrual cup and Bacterial vaginosis and Candidiasis infections.
• Yin care: Yin Care is a combination of anti-pathogenic Chinese herbs that can be used to help deal with signs and symptoms of vaginal “yeast” (bacterial or fungal infections). You can use the solution (diluted) as a sitz bath, herbal wash, or soak.

In some cases, your provider might recommend a follow up visit for additional screening.

How can you prevent future vaginal infections?

Normal and abnormal variations in vaginal discharge should be routinely discussed with your provider. Additionally, ask your provider to help educate you on common vaginal infections. These infections are not sexually transmitted but rather an imbalance of the vaginal pH.

Common causes of vaginal infections can include prolonged time in sweaty or wet clothing, non-cotton underwear, changes in mental or physical health, scented hygiene products or detergents. Although these infections are not STIs, some patients notice symptoms following sexual activity.

You can help keep your vagina healthy by:

• Avoiding douching
• Washing the area at least once daily with unscented, plain soap or even just water
• Avoiding scented personal care products in your vaginal area
• Avoiding perfumed feminine hygiene sprays and deodorants
• Practicing safe sex by using a condom every time you have intercourse
• Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom
• Getting regular gynecological checkups
• Taking a daily probiotic

Following treatment, your symptoms should clear completly. Follow up testing and treatment is not generally needed.