Because the vagina is hidden in closed areas with poor ventilation, it tends to collect sweat, urine residue and other secretions over time. Plus, it’s near the anus, making it smell dirty and smelly.
The good news is that the vagina is a self-cleaning organ, and regular washing with clean water is enough to remove dirt, bacteria, and foul odors. Using soaps or other cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals will only irritate the sensitive area, disrupt the natural pH balance, kill the vaginal flora and pave the way for infection. (1)
Vaginal health and hygiene are very important, but they are not taken care of properly. It is mostly the genital area that remains covered, and as they say: out of sight and out of mind.
But this carelessness later leads to unreasonable problems such as vaginal odor, vaginal infection, vaginal sores, heavy vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, burning, dryness, itching, and pain during sex.
In fact, up to 75% of the world’s female population will experience a vaginal infection at least once in their lifetime. (2)
This article will list some vaginal symptoms that may be symptoms of an underlying problem that may require medical attention.
Warning signs of an unhealthy vagina
If you notice any of the following symptoms, see your doctor.
- Itching, burning, vaginal dryness
Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that manifests as itching, dryness, burning, redness and swelling of the vaginal mucosa. All these symptoms cause great discomfort when urinating or having sex. (3)
Vaginitis is generally associated with a vaginal infection called bacterial vaginosis.
A healthy vaginal pH should be between 3.8 and 5.0. If the pH rises, the vaginal environment becomes too alkaline. It is unfavorable for the growth of some good bacteria, such as lactobacilli, but stimulates the overgrowth of other infectious bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, which is mainly responsible for bacterial vaginosis.