Our community’s strength lies in the dialogue we share. Over the years our members asked each other questions on our platform, and at times helped one another with the answers.
We decided to take it a step forward. As we receive all the comments and the messages from our readers and followers, we want to provide you with authentic information first hand. This is the purpose of Community Asks. Every month, we pick out a set of questions asked by the community and take them to our experts.
In this piece, we picked out your questions on vaginal health and reached out to Dr. Amodita Ahuja for her expert opinion. Here’s what she has to say.
What do I do about the dryness in my vagina?
Vaginal dryness can be caused by varied reasons. It is important to find out the cause and get it treated accordingly. But if the vaginal dryness happens once in a while, then one can use water based lubricants available on the counter.
What do I do to stop vaginal discharge ?
Some amount of vaginal discharge which is not foul smelling and not associated with itching is absolutely normal. Don’t try to stop that discharge because it is the way your vagina protects itself. If you try to stop this discharge with douching you will do more harm by killing the good bacteria of vagina. It will in turn make you more prone for vaginal infections. But if the vaginal discharge is associated with foul smell and itching then it’s not normal and it’s advisable to start the treatment after getting examined by your gynaecologist.
Why am I getting a fungal infection in my vagina?
Your vagina is the perfect mix of bacteria and fungus. Certain bacteria in the vagina overgrow to inhibit the overgrowth of the fungus. When this balance is disrupted, the fungal infection happens. It happens in women who practice douching, who are on oral contraceptive pills or use ipills very often, those with uncontrolled diabetes, those who were on antibiotics for a prolonged period, those who have weakened immune systems due to systemic illness or infection or those who have suffered from COVID-19.
Why is the skin in my intimate area peeling off? What should I do?
Peeling of the skin of the vulva can be due to the use of intimate products like hair removal creams, skin lightening or brightening products, moisturisers or oils. The skin of the vulva is very sensitive and responds immediately to any kind of chemical. Avoid skin brightening or lightening products or hair removal creams. Clean your vulva with warm water and a gentle wash.
My vagina smells and it gets worse during periods. What should I do?
Every woman has a different vaginal smell. That’s because of the millions of healthy bacteria that house in the vagina. The precise makeup of these bacteria changes everyday and sometimes on an hourly basis. These smells become a little more prominent during periods due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina. It’s absolutely normal to have such a smell. Don’t fall prey to vaginal deodorants or fragrant pads and tampons. These chemicals kill the healthy bacteria and predisposes you to further infection. Wash your private parts with water and you will be good to go. If the smell is more prominent, you can wash your private parts more often.
If you have any questions about your health, leave it in the comment section below or send us a DM at @nuawoman. This is a safe space and your questions will be answered by our experts.
