Maria Sophocles MD
For
– The pandemic triggered a shift in how people consume information and more importantly trust it. This was especially true when it comes to vaginal health. Actually, the pandemic caused a major shift in how people consume information. new surveyOnePoll conducted a survey of 2,000 American women aged 24-34 by RepHresh and found that 2 in 5 women cited Google as their first source of information when they experience discomfort or other symptoms.
Women are increasingly turning to social media for advice on their health. TikTok has hashtags that relate to specific words. “sex education”Over 70 million views. TikTok video – a famous tutorial about how to relieve constipation “vaginal splinting”has amassed over 3 million viewsThis is the most recent popular #icecubechallengeThis product claims to tighten your vagina and stop bacterial growth.
Although these DIY/at home medical hacks may be fun, they are often ineffective at managing the natural balance between good and poor bacteria. They can also be dangerous, and can do more harm than good. The pH of water (7.5-8), which is higher than the normal vaginal pH (33.5-4.5), can raise the natural pH and cause a bacterial infection. Experts caution against vaginal splinting at home. It is a scientific procedure used by medical professionals.
RepHresh’s survey revealed that more than half of respondents (51%) believed that a vagina should be neutral in pH. Only 12% were able to identify the correct answer. “moderately acidic”The ideal pH balance. The top three most searched phrases and questions that respondents wanted answers to were also included. “vaginal discharge”(44%). “do I have a yeast infection?”(39%). “vaginal odor”(37%).
Most women misdiagnose their vaginal symptoms due to misinformation. Trusted health care professionals are essential for proper diagnosis, treatment and advice for women with vaginal problems.
These are some important things that women may not be aware of, but must know in order to keep their vaginal health good.
1. Vaginal odors should not be considered alarming. Use scented products such as wipes or washes that claim they can eliminate odors with flowery or fruity scents. These will not correct the root cause, which is unbalanced pH. Look for products that are recommended by doctors and clinically supported for your vaginal health. RepHresh GelThis product rebalances pH and eliminates odor. It can last up to three days.
2. BV (bacterial vaginosis) and yeast infections may present similar symptoms like unusual vaginal drainage and discomfort. So when women go to the drugstore and purchase an OTC yeast medication, such as Monistat or Monistat, they don’t address the root cause. It is usually BV. If this happens, the patient must seek medical attention. However, antibiotics can kill good and bad bacteria, and cause yeast infections. Therefore, it is important to make sure you take a vaginal Probiotic at least once per day. RepHresh Pro-BIt contains 2 strains vaginal lactobacilli, which helps to maintain balance in the vaginal flora. You can also eat probiotic-rich foods like healthy, no-sugar-added Greek yogurt or kefir.
3. A high sugar and alcohol intake can cause pH imbalances and yeast overgrowth. Keep your sugar intake to a minimum. Excessive sugar intake can not only affect your vaginal health but also impact your overall weight gain and wellbeing.
4. Vaginal discharge, which is completely normal, occurs when the vagina naturally eliminates old cells. This helps to keep the environment clean and healthy. Some women may experience more or less discharge depending on their ovulation cycle. Itching, burning, fishy odor or swelling in the pelvis or with a bacterial infection should be reported to your doctor.
Talk to your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns you may have before trying something new. Don’t forget your annual OB/GYN appointment.
Maria Sophocles MD, OB/GYN, is the Medical Director of Women’s Healthcare of Princeton in Princeton.
