What's That Itch Down There?
By
Health.com
January 11, 2012
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Different gynecological problems can have symptoms so similar that even doctors may have a hard time figuring out what’s going on.
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Gyno problems, spotted
Different gyno problems can have symptoms so similar that even doctors may
have a hard time figuring out what’s going on. Here’s a quick primer.
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Yeast infection
Cause: Overgrowth of fungus; can be brought on by antibiotics, birth control pills, menstruation, and pregnancy, among other things
Symptoms: Burning, itching; a white, lumpy discharge
Treatment: OTC or prescription anti-fungal medication
Symptoms: Burning, itching; a white, lumpy discharge
Treatment: OTC or prescription anti-fungal medication
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Trichomoniasis
Cause: Sexually transmitted parasite
Symptoms: Burning, itching; a green, frothy discharge
Treatment: Antibiotics
Symptoms: Burning, itching; a green, frothy discharge
Treatment: Antibiotics
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Bacterial vaginosis
Cause: An imbalance in the "good" and "bad" bacteria of the vagina caused by unknown factors (smoking, douching, and having a new sex partner are all thought to increase your risk)
Symptoms: Bad, sometimes fishy odor; yellow or grayish discharge; may cause burning or itching
Treatment: Antibiotics
Symptoms: Bad, sometimes fishy odor; yellow or grayish discharge; may cause burning or itching
Treatment: Antibiotics
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Allergic vaginitis
Cause: Irritation from ingredients in spermicide, scented products like tampons and pads, or laundry detergent
Symptoms: Burning, itching; non-smelly discharge
Treatment: Identifying and stopping use of the allergen
Symptoms: Burning, itching; non-smelly discharge
Treatment: Identifying and stopping use of the allergen
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Vaginal atrophy
Cause: Thinning and inflammation of the vaginal tissues due to a drop in estrogen during menopause (and sometimes breast-feeding)
Symptoms: Burning, itching; pain during sex
Treatment: OTC or prescription vaginal moisturizers
Symptoms: Burning, itching; pain during sex
Treatment: OTC or prescription vaginal moisturizers
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