How much discharge is too much?
There’s no hard and fast rule. Basically, any substantial increase in the amount of vaginal discharge you usually have – especially if accompanied by a change in the colour, odour and/or consistency of your secretions – could be a sign of infection, explains Dr Hoffman. ‘If you feel noticeably wetter for several days and it’s not the middle of your cycle – when it’s normal to secrete more fluid – check in with your GP, who can diagnose and treat you,’ he says.
Why is my vagina itchy in winter?
Just as skin on the rest of your body can become dry, chafed and itchy due to low humidity and cold weather, so can the skin of your outer labia and vulva. Soothe it by applying an unperfumed moisturiser, such as sorbolene cream with gylcerine, or Vaseline, before bed, says Dr Adams. Prevent the itching from returning by not soaping up too much down below – a slight lather is fine – since soap dehydrates skin. If your V-zone isn’t any better after three days, see your GP.
What does my vagina need to pack for a holiday?
A UTI pain reliever
A good holiday often involves a lot of sex, which can boost your odds of contracting a urinary tract infection. Should you come down with the symptoms – such as lower-abdominal pain and a burning sensations while peeing – a specially designed over-the counter pain reliever will quell your discomfort quickly, until a GP is able to prescribe medication.
Extra contraception
Make sure you have enough pills left in your pack and stash condoms in your bag. You don’t want to be caught condom-less in the heat of the moment and find yourself tempted into unsafe sex.
