Vaginal infections occur when there is an imbalance in the vaginal flora, leading to many inconveniences like discharge and irritation. Some causes include yeast infections, candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The infections are most of them mild but severe; therefore, treatment needs to be tackled on an early basis so as to avoid complications and regain healthy conditions for the vagina.
This is usually the first sign of the vaginal infection. The itching may be mild or severe, in the vagina or vulva. It sometimes becomes severe at night or when urinating, especially due to fungal infections such as candidiasis.
One of the primary symptoms among all is the alteration in the vaginal discharge. It might be white, yellowish, or greenish in colour, white with a curd-like appearance, or even foul-smelling. It tends to appear as a thick white, curd-like discharge similar to cottage cheese in cases of yeast infections.
The infection might develop a burning sensation while urinating and cause discomfort during intercourse. This is due to inflammation and irritation caused by the infection in the vaginal tissues.
The vaginal region may become red, swollen, or even painful due to the inflammation. This is more common with severe infection, or if the treatment is not received.
The infections usually also cause a very pungent fishy smell, though this is slightly more characteristic of bacterial vaginosis. This sometimes worsens after intercourse.
There are several causes of vaginal infection:
Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): The most common cause of vaginal infections has been related to the overgrowth of Candida fungi. This typically arises as a result of some forms of antibiotics, hormonal imbalance, or reduced immunity.
Bacterial Vaginosis: A prevalent cause of interference with normal flora in the vagina is caused by the harmful multiplication of bacteria within the vagina- bacterial vaginosis. Douching, overcleaning, or dietary imbalance are some of the factors involved.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Infections such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, or gonorrhoea may cause vaginal infections. These are conditions often associated with unsafe sexual practices.
Hormonal Changes: Variations in hormones as what is commonly observed during pregnancy, menopause, or even when using oral contraception, tend to disrupt the natural balance of the vaginal environment, more easily becoming infected.
Poor Hygiene: Examples of improper hygiene include wearing tight clothing, using scented products near the genital region, and so on, which can act as a spawning ground for infections.
Ayurvedic treatment focuses on detoxifying the body, balancing doshas (body energies), and supporting overall vaginal health.
Several Ayurvedic herbs are known to support vaginal health and combat infections:
Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties and can be employed well as a medicinal herb for eradicating infections in various methods, like infections of the vagina. The bitter compounds of neem remove most of the agents that cause infections like candida and bacterial vaginosis. It is widely used in washes and ointments, or it is also taken internally to clean the system.
Triphala: A classic Ayurvedic formulation made from three powerful fruits—Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)—Triphala promotes detoxification. It supports the body in flushing out toxins and helps in maintaining the microbial balance of the vaginal flora, which is essential for preventing infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation and promote the healing of the vaginal mucosa.
Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa): Lodhra is an herbal astringent that tightens tissues and controls excessive discharge that is normally prevalent in infections. Its anti-inflammatory activity relieves symptoms of itch and swelling caused by irritation of vaginal tissues. It repairs tissues better, encouraging better healing processes.
Yashtimadhu (Licorice): Yashtimadhu is cooling and soothing. It eliminates the stinging sensation of infection in the vagina, reduces redness and swelling, and the mild pain associated to evade the disease caused by the immune response of the body.
Ashoka (Saraca asoca): Ashoka has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to regulate female hormones. It decreases the inflammatory process by which vaginal infection would cause burning and redness, thus healing it. It can be useful if such infections recur due to hormonal imbalances. It could be during the menstrual phase or due to menopause.
Panchakarma therapies are an integral part of Ayurvedic treatment to cleanse the body of toxins and restore health.
Virechana (Purgation Therapy): It is one of the most significant cleaning therapies offered in Panchakarma, which is aimed at eradicating excess Pitta dosha (heat and inflammation) from the body. Since Pitta dosha is always associated with infections. This therapy cleanses the digestive tract, detoxifies the liver, and reduces the inflammation causing vaginal infections.
Yoni Prakshalana (Vaginal Cleansing): With this process, decoctions of herbs prepared by neem or Triphala are used to cleanse the vaginal area. The process of cleansing helps in wiping out bacterial infections, maintaining the natural acidic pH of the body, and creating an environment wherein harmful microbes cannot grow. It can prevent fungal as well as bacterial infections and achieve cleanliness.
Abhyanga (Oil Massage): The regular use of oil massage with medicinal oils like sesame, and herbal-infused oils, stimulates circulation and removes toxins via the lymphatic apparatus. Enhanced blood circulation and nutrition to tissues help maintain a satisfactory immune response, which would ensure the prevention and control of infections.
Ayurveda emphasises a diet that balances the doshas and supports overall health, including vaginal health.
Balanced Diet: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential nutrients that strengthen the immune system. Probiotics like yoghurt and fermented foods contain healthy bacteria (like Lactobacillus), which help maintain the vaginal flora, preventing infections like yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
Avoid Sugary and Processed Foods: Yeast feeds on sugar, so reduced or no sugar and processed foods are helpful in preventing or curing the infection. Processed foods introduce chemicals and preservatives into the body, which can weaken the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections.
Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing: Tight clothing, especially synthetic fabrics, traps moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for yeast and bacteria to grow. Wearing loose, breathable, cotton-based clothing helps keep the vaginal area dry and prevents infections.
Proper Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene without overdoing it is key. While it's important to keep the area clean, using harsh soaps or scented products can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH, leading to infections. A mild, unscented soap with warm water is recommended.
Hydration: Drinking water will keep your body well-hydrated, and this aids the body in naturally cleansing itself. When enough water is consumed, it flushes toxins from the body, supporting its functions to maintain clean, healthy tissues within the vagina free of infectious agents.
Certain yoga postures and breathing exercises can enhance immunity and support vaginal health:
Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose): The yoga pose stretches and tones the muscles in the pelvic region, improving blood flow. Increased blood circulation to the reproductive organs aids in nourishing tissues and faster recovery, which reduces pain caused due to vaginal infections. Regular practice of the posture may also relieve a tense lower abdomen.
Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Pranayama activities, for example, Nadi Shodhana, or alternate nostril breathing, help decrease stress and balance the doshas. Stress is a known factor in weakening the immune system, and regular pranayama strengthens the body’s resistance to infections by calming the nervous system and improving overall energy flow.
Ayurvedic knowledge with holistic treatment helps the natural as well as easy cure of infections in the vagina. For customised treatment, contact Jiva Ayurveda and start your journey toward optimal vaginal health.
Yes, Ayurvedic herbs like Neem, Triphala, and Yashtimadhu are effective in treating yeast infections by balancing the vaginal flora and reducing inflammation.
The ICD-10 code for nonspecific vaginal infections is N76.0 for acute vaginitis.
Yes, a diet rich in probiotics, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with avoiding sugary foods, can help prevent vaginal infections.
A vaginal yeast infection is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast (typically Candida albicans) in the vaginal area. Symptoms include itching, burning, abnormal discharge (often white and thick), and irritation. This condition, also known as candidiasis, is usually treated with antifungal medications.
For a vaginal yeast infection antifungal treatment, over-the-counter creams and suppositories containing clotrimazole, miconazole, or fluconazole are commonly used. These treatments work by killing or inhibiting the growth of yeast. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications like fluconazole (Diflucan).
Vaginitis refers to inflammation of the vagina that can result from various causes, including bacterial infections, viral infections, allergic reactions, or yeast infections. Vaginitis yeast infection occurs when the inflammation is caused by an overgrowth of yeast. It leads to symptoms like itching, discharge, and irritation, similar to those of a typical yeast infection
Vaginal infection during pregnancy is not uncommon, and it’s important to address it promptly. A yeast infection during pregnancy is generally not harmful to the baby, but if left untreated, it can cause significant discomfort for the mother. It’s essential to consult a doctor, as treatment options may vary for pregnant women to avoid medications that could harm the foetus.
A vaginal infection tube refers to a medical device or applicator used to insert creams, gels, or medications into the vagina to treat infections. These tubes are often included in over-the-counter treatments for yeast infections or vaginitis and are designed for safe and hygienic administration of the medication directly to the affected area.
Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include intense itching, burning during urination, pain during intercourse, and a thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese. Some women may also experience redness and swelling around the vulva.
Yes, vaginal douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina, potentially leading to an overgrowth of yeast and causing a yeast infection. It is generally recommended to avoid douching as it can disturb the vaginal flora.
