Vaginal Infections & Hygiene Consultation

Vaginal health is a vital part of a woman’s overall well-being, yet many women feel hesitant to discuss concerns about infections, discomfort, or changes in their intimate health. Vaginal infections are common and often treatable, but ignoring symptoms can lead to recurrent issues, chronic discomfort, and potential complications affecting reproductive and sexual health.

With her extensive experience in women’s health, Dr. Parul Sharma provides confidential, compassionate, and evidence-based care for diagnosing, managing, and preventing vaginal infections. She also offers personalised hygiene counselling to help women maintain a healthy vaginal environment at every stage of life.

Understanding Vaginal Infections

The vagina naturally contains a balance of healthy bacteria and yeast that help maintain its slightly acidic pH and protect against harmful microorganisms. Disruption of this balance—due to hormonal changes, lifestyle factors, or external irritants—can lead to infection.

Common types of vaginal infections include:

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) – Overgrowth of certain bacteria; often linked to pH imbalance.
• Yeast Infections (Candidiasis) – Caused by excess growth of Candida fungus.
• Trichomoniasis – A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite.
• Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea – Common bacterial STIs that can affect vaginal and reproductive health.
• Viral Infections – Such as herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Signs & Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

While symptoms can vary depending on the cause, common signs of vaginal infection include:

• Unusual vaginal discharge (change in colour, texture, or quantity)
• Persistent itching or irritation
• Burning sensation during urination
• Pain during intercourse
• Foul or fishy vaginal odour
• Redness, swelling, or soreness around the vulva
• Small sores or blisters in the genital area

Prompt evaluation is essential to avoid complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, or chronic recurrent infections.

What Causes Vaginal Infections?

Dr. Parul Sharma carefully assesses underlying causes, as treatment and prevention strategies depend on identifying the root trigger. Possible causes include:

• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause, menstrual cycle fluctuations)
• Unprotected sexual activity or new sexual partners
• Poor or excessive vaginal hygiene practices (over-washing, douching)
• Tight or non-breathable clothing that traps moisture
• Antibiotic use disrupting natural bacterial balance
• Weakened immune system due to illness or stress
• Uncontrolled diabetes increasing yeast overgrowth risk
• Use of scented products like sprays, soaps, or wipes that irritate vaginal tissue

Comprehensive Evaluation & Diagnosis

Dr. Sharma offers a discreet, thorough assessment to pinpoint the cause of symptoms, which may include:

1. Detailed medical and sexual history – Including symptom timeline, hygiene habits, and contraceptive use.
2. Physical and pelvic examination – To assess signs of infection or inflammation.
3. Microscopic examination of discharge – To identify bacteria, yeast, or parasites.
4. pH testing of vaginal fluid – Helpful in differentiating infection types.
5. Culture or DNA testing – For recurrent or unclear infections.
6. Screening for STIs – When symptoms or history suggest risk.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Every infection is treated based on its type, severity, and underlying cause. Dr. Sharma’s goal is to clear the infection, restore balance, and prevent recurrence.

• Bacterial Vaginosis – Antibiotic creams, gels, or oral medication.
• Yeast Infections – Antifungal creams, suppositories, or oral antifungals.
• Trichomoniasis – Oral prescription medication for both patient and partner.
• STI-related infections – Antibiotics or antivirals, plus partner treatment to prevent reinfection.

Treatment is always combined with education on prevention and healthy habits to reduce recurrence.

Vaginal Hygiene Counselling

Vaginal health is influenced by daily habits. Dr. Sharma provides practical, personalised hygiene guidance, which may include:

• Washing the vulva (external genitalia) with lukewarm water only; avoiding harsh soaps.
• Wearing breathable cotton underwear and changing it daily.
• Avoiding tight clothing that traps heat and moisture.
• Changing out of wet swimwear or sweaty workout clothes promptly.
• Avoiding scented feminine hygiene products, sprays, and douches.
• Practising safe sex to reduce STI risk.
• Maintaining hydration and a balanced diet to support immune and vaginal health.

Special Considerations for Different Life Stages

• Adolescents & Young Adults – Education on safe hygiene practices and STI prevention.
• Pregnant Women – Extra care to prevent infections that could impact pregnancy outcomes.
• Perimenopausal & Postmenopausal Women – Addressing dryness, pH changes, and increased infection risk due to reduced estrogen.
• Women with Chronic Illness – Support for those with diabetes, autoimmune conditions, or immunosuppression.

Preventing Recurrent Infections

For women experiencing repeated infections, Dr. Sharma focuses on long-term prevention strategies:

• Reviewing contraceptive methods that may contribute to infections.
• Restoring healthy vaginal flora with probiotics or dietary adjustments.
• Managing blood sugar in diabetic patients.
• Addressing hormonal changes with topical estrogen if indicated.
• Teaching partner treatment protocols for sexually transmitted infections.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Advice

You should book a consultation promptly if you experience:

• Symptoms that persist beyond a few days
• Recurring infections (more than 3–4 times a year)
• Severe pain, swelling, or fever
• Foul-smelling discharge with pelvic pain
• Sores, blisters, or bleeding unrelated to menstruation
• Symptoms after a new sexual partner or unprotected sex

Empowering Women Through Knowledge & Care

Vaginal infections are common, but they should never be ignored or self-treated repeatedly without a proper diagnosis. Self-medication or over-the-counter treatments may mask symptoms while the underlying infection persists or worsens.

Dr. Parul Sharma ensures every woman receives care that is thorough, confidential, and non-judgmental, focusing on both effective treatment and long-term prevention. Her approach blends medical expertise with patient education, so women feel empowered to take charge of their intimate health and well-being.

By seeking timely medical attention and following personalised hygiene guidance, women can enjoy lasting comfort, confidence, and optimal reproductive health—at every age and stage of life.