Navigating Women's Health Issues: UTIs, Yeast Infections, and Bacterial Vaginosis

When it comes to women's health, there are a few issues that frequently arise: urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Understanding these conditions is crucial for better sexual health and self-care. Let's dive into what you need to know.

1. Yeast Infections:

A yeast infection, scientifically known as vulvovaginal candidiasis, occurs when a specific fungi called Candida overgrows in the vaginal microbiome. While most yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans, other strains like C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei can also lead to this condition.

Identifying a yeast infection isn't always straightforward, as its symptoms can overlap with other vaginal conditions. Physical symptoms might include:

• Thick, curd-like vaginal discharge.

• A red, scaly rash that can extend to the buttocks.

• Swelling of the vulva and vagina.

Unlike bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections usually don't result in skin wounds, ulcers, or bumps. However, if your yeast infection leads to a rash, consult a healthcare provider immediately for a proper evaluation.

Most people with yeast infections experience noticeable discomfort, such as:

• Vaginal and vulvar itching, redness, or soreness.

• White, curd-like vaginal discharge.

• Pain during sex.

• Soreness or stinging when urinating or during intercourse.

In terms of odour, a yeast infection might produce a yeasty smell, similar to bread or beer, but it's also common to have no odor at all. If you notice a foul, rotten, or fishy odour, it could indicate a different condition like BV, trichomoniasis, or gonorrhoea.

2. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV):

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection resulting from an overgrowth of disruptive bacteria in the vaginal microbiome. Normally, a healthy vaginal microbiome is dominated by protective bacteria like lactobacilli, which combat pathogens and maintain balance. However, when these protective bacteria decrease, disruptive bacteria can take over, leading to an imbalance.

BV often manifests as:

• A strong, unpleasant, or fishy vaginal odour.

• Thin, watery vaginal discharge, usually white or grey.

• General discomfort, pain, or itching.

• Specific discomfort during sex or urination.

It's important to note that up to 84% of people with BV may not experience any symptoms at all. Interestingly, researchers have yet to determine the exact cause of BV. However, certain factors may increase or decrease your risk, including sexual activity, hormonal fluctuations, your period, smoking, stress, and the use of douching or vaginal products.

3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):

Urinary tract infections are more common in women than you might think. By the age of 24, nearly a third of cisgender women will have experienced a UTI at least once, with 50% facing at least one in their lifetime. UTIs are often recurrent, affecting an estimated 27% of women who've had one.

Your vaginal microbiome is a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and more. It plays a crucial role in protecting against pathogens, including UTI-causing bacteria. However, when this balanced environment is disrupted, the number of protective bacteria decreases, allowing disruptive bacteria to thrive. This microbial imbalance may be linked to recurrent UTIs for some women.

Several types of bacteria can lead to UTIs, including:

• Escherichia coli (E. coli), responsible for 75% of UTIs in cisgender women.

• Proteus mirabilis.

• Klebsiella pneumoniae.

• Enterococcus faecalis.

• Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

• Streptococcus.

• Staphylococcus.

• Aerococcus.

• Gardnerella vaginalis, which, despite its BV association, can also cause UTIs if present in the urethra.

Recurrent UTIs might be due to these UTI-causing bacteria residing in the vaginal microbiome and migrating into the urethra. This is an area of ongoing research, with much left to uncover. Recurrent UTIs can have various causes, including menopause, prior UTIs increasing the risk of future infections, and practices like vaginal douching that can disturb the vaginal microbiome.

In women entering menopause, hormonal changes can impact the vaginal microbiome, increasing susceptibility to UTIs. Biofilm formation by bacteria like E. coli can contribute to recurrent UTIs after an initial infection.

Vaginal douching, a common practice for cleaning the vagina, is incredibly harmful your vaginal microbiome and make you more susceptible to all the listed infections. Douching products contain chemicals that disrupt the natural vaginal pH, creating an environment conducive to harmful bacterial growth. Remember, your vagina is self-cleaning, so there's no need for scented soaps or liquids.

Probiotics, with their "good" bacteria, have the potential to rebalance your microbiome and fight off harmful microbes. Some research indicates that probiotics might help prevent recurrent UTIs, but further studies are needed for conclusive evidence.

Understanding these common women's health issues empowers you to advocate for your well-being. Seek medical attention when needed, and remember that self-care and maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome are key to preventing and managing these conditions.