Monsoon health care: Expert explains how to prevent vaginal infections

Monsoon leads to a surge in the number of water-borne diseases, allergies and infections caused by increasing humidity, accumulated water and constant dampness around. Among the common diseases, vaginal infections are some of the lesser-discussed monsoon health problems.

A number of women deal with infections in their intimate areas due to rains and humidity, especially in Mumbai, where people are exposed to different types of bacteria and contamination due to waterlogging in residential areas and crowded public transport. These irritations and unease can have a critical impact on their intimate hygiene if not addressed in time.

Mid-Day Online reached out to Dr. Rana Choudhary, consultant obstetrician, gynaecologist and reproductive medicine (fertility) specialist at Masina Hospital, who shares insights on common vaginal infections and how to maintain intimate hygiene.

According to you, what are the common vaginal infections during monsoon?
During monsoon, women become more susceptible to vaginal and urinary infections as the increasing humidity accelerates bacterial and fungal growth. These vaginal infections can be caused by bacteria such as bacterial vaginosis, chlamydial infections, gonorrhoea) and sometimes candida infections like Vaginal candidiasis. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common type of vaginal infection, caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that normally live in your vagina.

Please elaborate on vaginal candidiasis and its symptoms. How soon does one need to consult a doctor?
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is caused by overgrowth of Candida yeast species in the vagina and is characterised by curd-like vaginal discharge (35-40 percent), itching (29-30 percent), and erythema (redness) (9-10 percent).

The common symptoms can include:
1. An itchy sensation in the vagina and vulva.
2. A thick, white vaginal discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese or curd like.
3. Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva.
4. Small cuts or tiny cracks in the skin of the vulva because of friable skin in the area.
5. A burning feeling when you urinate.
6. In some cases, there can be pain during sexual intercourse.

It is better to visit the gynaecologist if you suffer from any of these symptoms. Sometimes one can treat a vaginal yeast infection with over-the-counter medicines. However, one may want to avoid this if one isn't completely sure that it's actually a yeast infection. It is usually best to visit the gynaecologist and make sure you are getting the right treatment for the condition.

Do these infections have long-term impact on the reproductive system?
Yes, these vaginal infections do have long term consequences on the reproductive system and urinary system. If left untreated, one can develop severe vaginal mixed infections, recurrent vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) including endometritis and hydrosalpinx (infection of fallopian tubes). All these can reduce your chances of getting pregnant and cause infertility. Further, if you are already pregnant, then vaginal infections increase the risk of miscarriages (abortions) and preterm delivery.

How can the condition be prevented?
In order to prevent the complications of repeated vaginal infections and its adverse effects on the reproductive tract, it is essential that these are diagnosed correctly and managed in time. Over the counter medications and self-medications, may do more harm in the long run. Depending on the symptoms and clinical examination by a gynaecologist there are certain tests which will confirm the cause of the vaginal infection.

There are two forms of medication, antibiotics and antifungals, given in two forms: oral or topical. Oral medications are taken by the mouth, while topical medications are applied to the affected area. Topical medications may include boric acid, nystatin, miconazole or clotrimazole. It is important to always follow the instructions when using these medications to make sure that the infection is fully resolved and doesn't return. Sometimes oral or vaginal probiotics are also added.

Does the fabric of underpants and bottoms add to the causes? If yes, which materials are safer?
Yes, tight synthetic underpants or underwear decreases the circulation of air in the vaginal area and increases humidity and temperature. These conditions favour the growth of various microbes, bacteria and yeasts leading to bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis.

Which foods affect vaginal health?
One needs to have a healthy balanced diet for overall health. High-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains contain compounds known as prebiotics. Foods rich in probiotics such as curd are also good for vaginal health.

The vagina has an acidic pH between 3.5 and 4.5 on a scale of zero to 14. Everything from exercise to stress to sex can change the pH of your vagina, but when your vagina is in good health, it can usually maintain its pH balance all on its own. Staying well-hydrated helps boost energy and circulation, and it has positive benefits.

Soy products such as tofu and soyabean contain isoflavones that mimic estrogen and will protect the vaginal mucosa from invasion by the bacteria and yeasts. Cranberry juices are also known to be protective particularly against urinary tract infections which are commonly associated with vaginal infections

How can we prevent vaginal infection during monsoon?
Guard yourself against vaginal infections during monsoon with these tips
1. Wear breathable underwear.
2. Keep your vagina clean and dry.
3. No vaginal douching as it can kill the good bacteria, which helps in controlling fungus.
4. Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
5. Don't shave pubic hair too often.
6. Wipe from the front to back.
7. Clean your vagina after intercourse.
8. Avoid spicy food.
9. Change the sanitary pads after 4 to 5 hours.
10. Avoid the use of feminine deodorants.
11. Do not use deodorant (scented) tampons or pads.
12. Change out of wet clothing, especially bathing suits, as soon as you can.
13. Use water-based sexual lubricants.
14. If you are suffering from repeated vaginal infections:
a. Test to confirm that you have a vaginal yeast infection.
b. Get your partner and yourself checked for blood sugar
c. Test for HIV/AIDS in repeated infections.

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(Disclaimer: This article is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Mid-day Online does not in any way endorse the accuracy, completeness, efficacy or timeliness of any advice or line of treatment mentioned in this article. Readers must always seek the advice of a certified medical practitioner and/or a mental health professional before deciding on or starting any course of treatment.)