Your Guide to Vaginal Discharge

Under normal healthy conditions, the vagina maintains a certain amount of secretion that helps keep it moist.

An increase in vaginal discharge takes place during excitement, sexual activity, masturbation, and anxiety; between menstrual periods, the day just before a period, during illness, or when a woman is physically worn out. However, vaginal discharge becomes a problem if it increases so much as to consistently stain undergarments; if it is purulent or bloodstained; or if it causes itching, soreness or burning.
 
The vagina is kept healthy by a bacterium called doderlein bacillus that is found in the vaginal tract. It prevents infection by keeping the pH acidic. If you wash yourself too often with medicated soaps and detergents you can change your vagina’s pH, making it vulnerable to infection. Excessive use of deodorants and chemically-treated compounds often leads to fungal infections.

Abnormal Discharge Types

Natural Remedies & Approaches

Natural Alternatives to Tampons

The vagina is in a constant state of self-cleansing, washing away dead cells and bacteria.  But standard tampons absorb the natural fluids needed to keep the vagina clean and moist. Natural alternatives to tampons such as sea sponges, menstrual cups, and other organic absorbents are better than chemically synthesized fibers.

For example, Sea Pearls are completely natural sea sponge tampons containing no Dioxin or synthetic fibers. Safe and reusable for six months or more, Sea Pearls are healthy, economical, easy to use, and earth friendly. In addition, the DivaCup is a healthy and effective natural solution to vaginal discharge. It is non-absorbent and simply collects the menstrual flow, leaving the natural moisture level in the vagina undisturbed.

To reduce recurrent yeast infections, supplement your diet with lactobacillus cultures, bacteria that's common in the vagina. Aloe Vera is also helpful for infections and is known for its healing effects. It can be applied topically to relieve itching, taken internally, or used in a douche. Barberry has potent infection-fighting properties.  Calendula and vitamin A vaginal suppositories are soothing and healing, while Goldenseal suppositories are useful for all types of infection. Chamomile has antifungal properties. Cinnamon and dandelion inhibit the growth of Candida albicans. Echinacea also has antifungal properties and enhances the immune system. Pau d'arco contains natural antibiotic agents and has a healing effect. Topical tea tree oil cream is known to be effective against various vaginal infections.

Hygiene

Good hygiene may prevent unhealthy vaginal discharge. Rinse soap from your outer genital area after a shower, and dry the area well to prevent irritation. Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to avoid spreading fecal bacteria to your vagina. During sex, use a male latex condom to help avoid infections spread by sexual contact. Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid wearing underwear to bed, as yeast thrives in moist environments.
 

Is Douching Helpful?

Refrain from normal douching. Repetitive douching disrupts the normal organisms that live in the vagina and can actually increase your risk of vaginal infection. Instead, douche with infusions made from antiseptic herbs such as calendula, garlic, goldenseal, fresh plantain, St. John's wort, or tea tree oil, along with herbs such as comfrey leaves to soothe irritation.