Many women have experienced vaginal discomfort at some point in their lives. This discomfort can range from mild itching to the sensation of burning and pain. You may be tempted to use over-the-counter remedies to treat your vaginal discomfort. However, it's usually a better idea to pay a visit to your OB-GYN doctor instead. Here are four reasons you should see an OB-GYN doctor when experiencing vaginal discomfort:
1. Receive a correct diagnosis.
Vaginal discomfort can be caused by many things. Sometimes, a yeast infection is to blame. Yeast infections occur when the yeast naturally present in a woman's vagina is not kept in check by helpful bacteria. This can cause yeast to proliferate, causing white discharge, itching, and burning. However, bacterial vaginosis, STDs, and even contact dermatitis can also cause vaginal discomfort. OB-GYN doctors can perform tests to ascertain the culprit behind your vaginal irritation to give you an accurate diagnosis.
2. Prevent health complications.
Some kinds of illogical problems can cause health complications when left untreated. For example, urinary tract infections (UTIs), a common condition in women, can turn into bladder infections and kidney infections without treatment. Some STDs can also lead to systemic symptoms that can severely degrade your quality of life. Seeing your OB-GYN doctor at the first sign of trouble can help you promptly address reproductive concerns to protect your overall health.
3. Protect your sexual partner(s).
Some causes of vaginal discomfort, such as STDs, can be passed to sexual partners during sexual activity. Herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other sexually transmitted infections can cause rashes, pain, burning, and itching. It's important to get tested for STDs in order to protect your sexual partner(s). People with STDs can practice safer sex to reduce their chance of spreading these illnesses to others. Many STDs can even be cured or managed with treatment.
Some people fear getting tested for STDs because of the stigma often attached to these illnesses. However, OB-GYN doctors are medical professionals who understand the sensitive nature of reproductive health care. You can expect to feel safe and respected when you seek care for an STD.
4. Receive effective treatments.
Finally, your OB-GYN doctor can prescribe effective treatments to help you eradicate your vaginal discomfort, no matter what its source is. Prescription antifungal medication can be used to treat stubborn yeast infections. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, and there are many helpful medications to treat sexually transmitted infections.
Contact a local OB-GYN to learn more.
Share15 November 2022
Have you recently found out you’re expecting your first baby? Perhaps, you’re both ecstatic and apprehensive. You likely want to do everything in you power to protect the health of your unborn child. If you can relate to this scenario, talk with your trusted OBGYN. This medical professional can offer expert suggestions about issues things such as proper diet and exercise. For instance, your OBGYN might advise you to consume more foods packed with certain nutrients such as potassium and calcium. This individual may also recommend you complete some form of light to moderate exercise on most days of the week. On this blog, I hope you will discover ingenious tips to help you enjoy a healthy pregnancy.
