--Submitted by Brawny
Dark, warm, and moist: the perfect growing medium for bacteria and fungus. Unfortunately, this can lead to a great deal of discomfort for a woman, especially when out on the trail, and away from an abundance of warm water and medications that could alleviate the resultant irritation and itching should vaginitis occur.
Several simple precautions can be taken to prevent vaginitis, (any infection or irritation of the vagina). One of the most basic things is to avoid wearing tight or non-breathable fabrics, such as polyester, for long periods of time. Instead, use loose cotton blends, and sleep without underwear in order to give your vagina the healthy benefits of fresh air.
If you wash your hair while showering, its a good idea to keep the shampoo from the running onto the vaginal area. Many women, especially as they age, experience irritation from soaps and shampoos. Use plenty of warm water to cleanse this sensitive area, and always rinse well should any mild unscented soaps be used. Many scented items, like tampons, or toilet paper, can cause reactions. Be sure all clothing is rinsed well to be rid of irritating perfumes and detergent residue.
An obvious precaution, but not often thought of, is to examine the vegetation before you squat to void. Learn to recognize poison ivy and poison oak. The voice of experience will tell you how uncomfortable an outbreak can be! Remember that any leafless vine, in the winter, could be poison ivy, and still able to cause an incredible negative reaction. Be careful not to lean against a tree with a vine growing on it. The oils from poison ivy are so potent, even when trapped in clothing, that they can cause an outbreak when introduced later to normally unexposed areas of the body.
Sometimes, an antibiotic will upset the natural ph, and a resultant yeast infection could begin. If you are on anitbiotics, you can eat yogurt to encourage restoration of a beneficial clima. There are several over the counter medications which could be brought along in your pack, just in case. It is recommended to lower your sugar intake if you do develope an infection. As in most irritations, its important not to agravate the situation with scratching or rubbing the area. Warm water is very soothing, and the infection will go away by itself without a doctors intervention.
Sperm introduces a lot of potentional for bacterial growth. It changes the natural ph of your vagina. Over half of reported urinary tract infections result from sexual intercourse, because of the additional bacteria introduced. If you can not shower or bathe easily and regularly , its recommended to have your partner use a condom.
When cleaning or drying your vagina, use gentle patting motions, and always front to back.
Drinking plenty of fluids is always important to your health. It flushes out bacteria, and keeps kidney stones from forming. Cranberry juice, or other acidic drinks discourage the growth of harmful bacteria also.
None of this information is intended to replace a doctors advice. If you should develope serious symptoms, such as fever, unusually frequent urination,or urge to do so, copious foul smelling discharge, I recommend getting a doctors advice. You may have a urinary tract infection, which is very serious if left unresolved. For additional information on vaginitis, please visit the Links, found on the home page .