All articles tagged with #vaginal health
Women using Ozempic and similar GLP-1 medications have reported a rare side effect called 'Ozempic vulva,' characterized by sagging, muscle weakness, and dryness in the vulva and vagina, likely due to rapid weight loss and fat loss in the area. While not officially recognized, some are seeking treatments like dermal fillers or surgery, and users are advised to consult healthcare professionals for any concerns.
Jeneka Jool, a content creator, discovered that her chronic yeast infections were caused by a specific brand of toilet paper, Costco's Kirkland Signature 2-ply Bath Tissue. After switching to a bidet, her symptoms disappeared. This revelation highlights how everyday products, like toilet paper, can disrupt the vaginal microbiome and cause irritation. Jeneka's viral video has sparked widespread discussion, emphasizing the importance of understanding personal sensitivities and maintaining a balanced vaginal environment.
As winter approaches, experts advise women to 'winterproof' their vaginal health by adopting certain practices. Cold weather can lead to skin dryness and disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vaginal area, potentially causing infections. To maintain intimate health, it's recommended to wear natural fiber underwear, avoid perfumed bath products, balance diet and hydration, and limit alcohol and sugar intake. These measures help prevent irritation and maintain the natural ecosystem of the vagina during colder months.
Health experts advise that the vagina is self-cleaning and does not need to be washed internally, as doing so can disrupt its natural pH and bacteria, potentially causing irritation or infections. The vulva, however, should be cleaned regularly with gentle, pH-balanced, fragrance-free products or simply warm water to prevent odors and infections. Vigorous scrubbing should be avoided, and it's important to pat dry the area after washing to prevent moisture buildup.
Vaginal health gummies are a trending health craze promoted by celebrities and influencers, claiming to improve vaginal pH balance, taste, odor, and freshness. However, experts warn that the vagina is self-cleaning and does not require additional products to function properly. While some gummies contain probiotics that may help maintain vaginal health, experts emphasize that natural probiotic-rich foods and proper hygiene practices are sufficient for vaginal health. It's important to consult a doctor if experiencing unusual vaginal symptoms, rather than relying on over-the-counter supplements.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have discovered how bacterial vaginosis (BV) disrupts vaginal health, shedding light on its link to pregnancy complications. By examining vaginal cells, they found that certain bacterial species dismantle protective molecules on the surface of cells lining the genital tissue, leading to disruptions in vital repair processes and the balance of healthy and unhealthy bacteria. This imbalance can harm delicate internal tissue, potentially resulting in problems during pregnancy. The findings could aid in diagnosing BV and identifying women at risk of complications like premature births. BV affects one in three women and is associated with an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections.
Vaginal health is an important aspect of overall wellness, but it is often stigmatized and overlooked. Changes in vaginal discharge, itchiness, odor, and pain during intercourse can indicate underlying issues such as infections, cysts, or hormonal imbalances. Bacterial vaginosis, Bartholin's cysts, trichomoniasis, two vaginas, vaginal atrophy, vaginismus, and yeast infections are some possible diagnoses. Seeking medical help and avoiding harsh products are crucial for maintaining vaginal health. Treatment options include antibiotics, incision and drainage, antifungal medications, and hormonal therapy.
Dyspareunia, or painful sex, is a common but under-treated symptom of menopause, affecting an estimated 13 to 84 percent of postmenopausal women. The main cause of painful sex after menopause is the drastic drop in estrogen, which leads to thinning of the vaginal walls, loss of lubrication, and changes in the vestibule. Other factors such as altered acidity levels and certain health conditions can also contribute to dyspareunia. Treatment options include lubricants, vaginal moisturizers, estrogen creams, and lidocaine. Seeking expert advice is crucial to determine the appropriate treatment based on the severity of symptoms.
Vaginal or vulvar itchiness can have various causes, ranging from yeast infections to irritation from using products not meant for the vulva. Other potential causes include bacterial vaginosis, lichen sclerosus, and in rare cases, vulvar cancer. It is important to consult a medical professional to determine the source of the itchiness and receive appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include over-the-counter or prescription anti-fungal creams for yeast infections, ceasing use of irritating products, antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis, steroid ointments for lichen sclerosus, and various treatments for vulvar cancer such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Regular self-examination of the vulva is recommended to detect any abnormalities.
The "Sex and the City" reboot, "And Just Like That," missed an opportunity to address a common misconception about women's health. In the show, Carrie Bradshaw is uncomfortable with reading an ad for a vaginal odor product on her podcast, but instead of discussing the problematic message these products send, her character is squeamish about talking about vaginas on-air. This missed opportunity reflects the struggles of the reboot to provide meaningful commentary on the issues it brings up, leaving viewers longing for the candor of Samantha Jones.
Medical experts debunk five popular sexual myths spreading on TikTok, including the use of home remedies for vaginal infections, the idea that Mucinex D can boost fertility, the use of yoni pearls for vaginal detox, the belief that caffeine can make orgasms stronger, and the notion that certain foods or drinks can alter the taste or smell of the vagina. It's important to receive factual and helpful information about sexual health from medical professionals rather than relying on potentially dangerous misinformation on social media.
Experts weigh in on Kourtney Kardashian's Lemme brand supplements, cautioning that supplements are not a cure-all and should not be a substitute for medical treatments. Lemme's debloat supplements contain probiotics that may help with bloating symptoms, but a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are necessary for effectiveness. The vaginal health gummies are not guaranteed to support vaginal pH levels and help with vaginal odor, and modifying one's diet and taking specific supplements may be more effective. The matcha energy gummies contain helpful ingredients, but may not be the most effective option for low energy. The sea moss liquid drops contain essential minerals, but there is limited scientific research on their effectiveness.