Whether you potentially have an infection depends on the color of the discharge and whether there is an odor associated with it. If it’s gray, yellow or green, that could signal a bacterial infection. If it’s thick and white -- like cottage cheese -- it’s most likely a yeast infection, says Ross.
“If there is an odor, it could be due to your diet, but it’s more likely to be some type of bacterial infection,” she says, recommending a visit to your gynecologist if the discharge has a strange color or odor.
Q: Condoms make me itchy. Could I be allergic to them? Is there anything I can use instead, but still protect myself from infection?
A: “Yes, you can be allergic to condoms,” says Ross. “Latex is a common allergic material for women, and I would recommend trying a polyurethane condom instead, though they can be difficult to find.”
Ross also mentions that many condoms use nonoxynol-9, which may also cause an allergic reaction. So try switching to one that doesn’t use this particular spermicide to see if the itching subsides.
“With condyloma (HPV) -- also known as genital warts -- and herpes, you can wear a condom and still catch both of those viruses,” Ross adds. “That’s why it’s so important to emphasize knowing and trusting your partner and their sexual history.”
Q: I have painful, heavy periods. What does that mean?
A: “Often, I think the best thing to do is to get a vaginal/pelvic ultrasound to make certain there is no reason for the heavy period, such as a uterine polyp or fibroid,” suggests Ross. Both can cause heavy or painful periods, and an ultrasound can rule them out.
For those women who are simply prone to painful periods, there are medications that can help, such as Motrin or Motrin-type products -- such as Midol, Ross adds. “Birth control pills can also help lighten the period and help with the cramping, as well.”
Q: My skin is inflamed and irritated down there. Why, and how can I make it go away?
A: “It could be due to infection or an allergic reaction to products through intercourse,” says Ross, “or your clothing. Yeast is probably the most common infection associated with irritation.”
