Vaginitis, or Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Symptoms
Vaginal itching, burning, stinging, redness, irritation, rawness, unusual discharge, odor, pain during sex, lumps on the labia that itch and then disappear, sore red patches of skin on the labia or right inside the vaginal opening.
Possible Causes
Vaginal problems are most often associated with fluctuating hormone levels (PMS, Menopause) or the use of antibiotics. They may also arise from one, or a combination, of the following:
Foods high in Oxylates, Douching, Tight Clothing, Laundry Detergent (sensitivities), Fragranced/Dyed Toilet Paper, Feminine Products, Sex Without Proper Lubrication, STDs, Perfumes, Diabetes, Stress, food allergies or sensitivities, Dehydration, A Diet Too High in Acid Forming Foods.
Spiritual/Psychological cause: There is anger and frustration about something you are looking at in your relationship, with yourself, or with a mate. Whatever it is, there is rejection of the feminine self here. If you are having problems with Vulvodynia (see "Is It Hot In Here?!"), there are issues concerning vulnerability.
Ladies, please read 'The Importance of pH Balance!',
especially if you have recurring vaginal problems!
Treatments for Vaginitis, or BV
The most common medical antibiotic treatments for vaginitis are Metronidazole or Clindamycin, prescribed in pill or cream. However, these often cause yeast infections and other unwanted side effects, such as diarrhea, which is hard on the person who suffers from IBS. Bacterial infections are often very resistant to antibiotics as well, but some, if left untreated, may lead to PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease). It is important to see your doctor if you suspect any type of infection.
Try Tea Tree Oil Suppositories, which can be found at your health store.
Make your own suppository by adding 2-3 drops of Tea Tree Oil to 1 tablspoon of yogurt. soak a tampon in the mixture and insert it at night for up to 6 nights.
Zinc 15-30 mg per day helps with healing. (View 'Candida' two sections below.)
I suggest taking Probiotics lactobacillus capsules to increase friendly bacteria in the gut and decrease the chance of yeast overgrowth in the body. I have read that one capsule may also be directly placed in the vagina at night to help balance vaginal pH, but I currently have not found further directions to say how many nights in a row this should be performed. I would think that 7-14 nights would be enough to tell if it is helping at all.
Echinacea capsules can be used to fight off bacterial infection. Echinacea boosts the immune system and works as a natural bacteria fighter. Use as directed on the label, usually for no more than 2 weeks.
Garlic is a natural bacteria fighter, as well as Vitamin A (no more than 8,000 IU of Vitamin A per day).
For more information and remedies for vaginal issues, please visit my web page 'Energy Wellness Tips!' and 'Is It Hot in Here?!'
Note: Ladies! Just so you know, men can get BV and Yeast too!
It doesn't mean he gave it to you, because your own body can be the 'culprit', but they can get it and they can transmit it back to you! Look for redness, irritation, or a scaly appearance on the head of his penis. In addition there may be a fishy, or musty (yeasty), smell. Men can be treated with antibiotic or natural creams.
Men-folk can also transfer over 'Jock Itch', which is a fungus!
Jock Itch is a fungus characterized by red, raw, bumpy, irritated and very, very itchy skin. The more you scratch, the more it will itch! The skin often peels off which leads to pain and burning. It is often found inside the upper groin area where underwear rubs. However, women can get it in more intimate places, such as around and below the vaginal opening and between the buttocks. It will look a darker pink or red on pale women, and dark gray, even blackish, on very dark skin. Nice, huh?
All Natural Product Links!
There is a product, called Multi-Gyn, that helps to restore the balance of vaginal PH levels. It is a wonderful product made primarily of Aloe Vera and Tea Tree Oil. It can help with vaginal dryness and atrophy associated with hormonal changes. It helps to get rid the vagina of an overgrowth of the Gardnerella bacteria.
Femi-Yin for Menopause Relief is gaining in popularity and may help with menopause related vaginitis. Ingredients are a combination of Ayervedic and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine). A 60-day supply costs $25.99 at www.biomed-health.com. The full effects should be felt within 3 months, but you should feel improvement within 2-4 weeks.
May Love & Energy Be Yours!
