Do you have a vaginal discharge that is normal in color, consistency, and smell, but has the amount increased?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
This is most likely related to normal hormone changes or possibly the use of oral contraceptives. It may also be related to PREGNANCY.
Self Care
Check for pregnancy with a home pregnancy test. See your doctor if the condition worsens or bothers you.
Do you have a discharge that is white and curd-like (cottage-cheese like), or are you experiencing vaginal or labial (lips of the vagina) redness, itching, and/or irritation?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
You may have a yeast infection or CANDIDIASIS. FUNGAL INFECTIONS and IRRITATION from feminine hygiene sprays or douching can also cause a rash.
Self Care
See your doctor if this is the first time you’ve had these symptoms. Yeast infections may be treated with over-the-counter medicines. Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing to allow the area to breathe. Fungal infections may be treated with an over-the-counter antifungal cream.
Do you have a greenish, yellow discharge with an unpleasant fishy odor?
Are you experiencing abdominal pain or other pain during sex?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
You may have PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE (PID), a serious infection around your fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus, or a sexually transmitted infection, such as TRICHOMONIASIS.
Self Care
URGENT
See your doctor right away.
Do you have a tender swelling of the vaginal opening or swelling of one labia (vaginal lip)?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
This swelling might be from an INFECTION in a mucous gland or an ABSCESS or infection in the labia (vaginal lip).
Self Care
URGENT
See your doctor right away.
Do you have a sore (ulcer) or raw area on the outside or inside of the vagina?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
HERPES infections and other SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS often start with a sore or ulcer. These can also occur as friction-type burns after sexual intercourse.
Self Care
See your doctor. If you believe it is related just to friction during intercourse, consider using an over-the-counter lubricant specific for sex (e.g., K-Y Jelly). Do not use Vaseline or white petroleum jelly with latex condoms.
Do you have pain with intercourse?
Does your vagina seem dry, or are you experiencing vaginal itching and irritation?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
Painful intercourse may be a sign of INFECTION or HORMONE DEFICIENCY. During or after MENOPAUSE, it is normal to have dryness and decreased vaginal lubrication.
Self Care
See your doctor. He or she can determine the cause of your symptoms and suggest the best treatment for you. Vaginal dryness can be relieved with vaginal lubricants. Do not use Vaseline or white petroleum jelly with latex condoms.
Are you anxious about having sex?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
Painful intercourse can be due to VAGINISMUS, an involuntary spasm of the muscles around the vagina.
Self Care
See your doctor if you think you may have VAGINISMUS. Treatment is available. Certain exercises, including the contraction and relaxation of pelvic muscles, may help improve muscle control.
Do you have pain or burning with urination? Do you feel like you suddenly have to urinate and can’t make it to the toilet in time? Do you feel that you are having trouble starting your stream of urine? Do you feel that you are not completely emptying your bladder when you urinate?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
You may have a bladder infection, also known as a URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI) or CYSTITIS.
Self Care
See your doctor. Bladder infections are treated with antibiotics.
Do you leak urine when you cough, laugh, or lift a heavy object?
Possible Causes
Diagnosis
This may be a symptom of STRESS INCONTINENCE, a common condition after giving birth or later in life as your pelvic floor muscles weaken.
Self Care
Discuss the problem with your doctor. You can strengthen your bladder with Kegel exercises. Empty your bladder frequently to help prevent urine leaks. Protective shields or adult diapers may also help. Surgery may also be an option.
