PREVENTING VAGINAL INFECTIONS

It is normal for women to have a clear or white vaginal discharge that may dry to a yellowish color on underclothes. Vaginal discharge keeps the vagina clean and moist. Usually, the discharge will increase about halfway between periods during ovulation.  
A change in the vaginal discharge may signal a vaginal infection. Common symptoms include an increase in vaginal discharge,  a change in color, an odor, itching or irritation, or painful intercourse. Vaginal infections are very  common and are experienced by many women at some time in their lives no matter how attentive they are to personal cleanliness. 

However, many vaginal problems and infections can be minimized and prevented by following these simple measures:  

* Wear cotton underwear.  Cotton absorbs moisture and allows free flow of air to the genital 
area.  Moisture can breed certain vaginal infections. 
* Loose-fitting clothing allows better air circulation. Tight pants or jeans trap moisture and may 
cause irritation. 
*  Avoid perfumed or deodorant soaps, bubble bath and colored toilet paper.  They contain 
chemicals which can irritate the vagina and external genital area. 
* Avoid vaginal deodorants. They are not necessary and contain chemicals that may irrritate 
or damage the tissues of the vagina and external genitalia. 
*  No Douching.  It is not necessary. If you really feel it’s important, only use 1-2 tablespoons of 
white vinegar with 1 quart of water, or buy commercially-prepared vinegar douches. 
* Tampons should not be left in place for too long.  Change tampons and pads at least three 
times a day whether you need to or not. If flow is very light, use a mini-pad instead of a 
tampon. The tampon may absorb all moisture, leading to irritation. 

* Wipe yourself from front to back  always when you use toilet paper. Bacteria from the rectal 
area can cause vaginal infections. 
* When in doubt, avoid intercourse. Sex partners do not always have signs of infections. If you 
do not know your partner well or you suspect your partner has something wrong-wait. 
* Use Condoms.  Condoms can help protect you and your partner from the spread of sexually 
transmitted diseases. 
*  Use good lubrication.   If foreplay does not provide enough vaginal lubrication, try saliva, 
contraceptive foam or jelly, or water soluble  lubricant such as KY jelly (available without 
prescription). Avoid Vaseline. It is not water soluble, it is hard to wash away, and may lead to 
infection.  
* Avoid  the use of other people’s clothing, towels.