Vaginal Discharge, Infections, & Odors and Douching / Question
Published: May 24, 2005
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I need help telling someone about the diagnosis ive made myself, Ive looked it up on the web everywhere and I am most certain I have Bacterial Vaginosis and i know Ive had it for a long time..too long, but its because i just cant find somone to be comfortable enough to tell them about it and say I need to go to the doctor..how do I work up the courage to tell my dad about somthing wrong..down there...
Signed: Bacterial Vaginosis
Dear Bacterial Vaginosis,
Bacterial vaginosis is a mild infection in the vagina caused by a type of bacteria (germ). The vagina normally contains a lot of "good" bacteria, called lactobacilli (lack-toe bah-sil-li), and a few other types of bacteria, called anaerobes (ann-air-robes). Too many anaerobes can cause bacterial vaginosis. It is not known why the anaerobe bacteria overgrow and cause this infection.
Some indicators that bacterial vaginosis is present are when a woman has more vaginal discharge than usual. The discharge might be milky with a ?fishy? odor. The odor can be worse after sex. Other symptoms women may experience include itching or burning in or near the vagina.
Bacterial vaginosis is usually not serious. In some cases, however, it can cause infections in the uterus and fallopian tubes. It is important to treat bacterial vaginosis, especially before having an IUD inserted, an abortion, or tests done on the uterine lining. Bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy may cause the baby to be born too soon.
While this situation is very personal and potentially embarrassing for you, doctors deal with this type of problem on a regular basis. Chances are if you let the doctor know that you are nervous or uncomfortable he/she will be mindful of this during the exam and try to make you feel at ease.
The procedure is simple and painless. The physician will look at the vaginal discharge under the microscope for bacteria as well as check the acid level of the vagina. If bacterial vaginosis is present it can be treated in one of several ways. Your doctor may prescribe pills for you to take by mouth, or a cream or gel to put in your vagina. It's important to use your medicine exactly as your doctor tells you.
As far as telling your father, let him know that you need to see a doctor because of a female health concern. Let him know that it is not serious but that you do not feel comfortable talking to him about it. If you want (with your permission) your doctor could explain the procedure to your father to keep him from worrying about your health.
If you absolutely cannot confide in your dad then you still can be seen without parental permission at a local Teen Health Clinic or Planned Parenthood. If you do not have a doctor and you live in Northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475.
In the meanwhile, we recommend that you bathe or shower every day, wash your genitals with warm water and pat the area dry with a clean towel, wear underwear made only of cotton, and try to avoid tight clothing which can trap moisture and bacteria.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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