1. Check for Discharge
Normal vaginal discharge is mostly clear, free from odor and harmless. Discharge that is white or yellow is an indicator of an infection in the vaginal area. Notice the consistency to the discharge, whether it is runny, sticky or cottage cheese-like. The discharge may be odorous and cause itching and burning around the genital area. Check for discharge before and after your shower and throughout the day when convenient, like during rest room breaks or while changing your clothes. Not all infections, however, are noticeable by discharge, smell or irritation. You can have a severe vaginal infection and show no outward signs.
2. Pain and Irritation is a bad Sign
Vaginal infections are accompanied by irritation and sometimes by pain. You may feel irritation around the vagina, vulva and the folds of the genital skin. The anal area may show signs of irritation if the infection remains untreated for an extended period of time. Bothersome itching and discomfort are also common. Severe vaginal infections can interfere with your urinary tract and cause discomfort or pain while urinating. Different infections produce different types of pain. Note what kind of pain you are having, where and how frequently to help with your diagnosis.
3. Painful Intercourse Isn't Normal
Pain during intercourse is an indicator that you have a severe vaginal infection. Intercourse is supposed to be pain free. If you have discomfort or pain, seek medical attention. Infection is one of the more common reasons women have pain and discomfort while having sex. Check for discharge after intercourse. You will notice a "fishy" odor in the discharge after intercourse with some vaginal infections.
4. Make an Appointment
It is common for more than one vaginal infection to occur at the same time. This makes self or home diagnosis difficult or impossible. One way to know what type of vaginal infection you have and the severity is to make an appointment with your doctor. Swabs from the vaginal area or blood work tell your doctor the specifics of the infection. Severe vaginal infections require prescription medication. Talk to your doctor about the different side effects of the medication, how long the medicine takes to lessen the symptoms and what you can do to prevent further breakouts. Do not treat at home for vaginal infections without speaking to or seeing a health care provider. Take a list of any medications you are taking. Some antibiotics cause bacterial vaginal infections.
