Weird discharges and other "down there" scares explained
You are at that stage where your body undergoes loads of changes. In fact, there are so many changes you have no idea what is normal! Like, are you supposed to itch "down there"? What about that burning sensation when you pee, or the immense pain when you're menstruating? Here's a guide to help you out.
Case #1
Complaint: Itchiness in your vaginal area and white, lumpy discharge in your panties.
What it is: Thrush or vaginal yeast infection.
How it happened: There is too much heat in your knickers, girl. Change to cotton panties that don't trap moisture and heat. Sometimes, certain antibiotics can trigger the yeast that naturally lives in your vagina to overproduce.
Action: If you think you have thrush, see your doctor. He'll prescribe pills to clear it up.
Case #2
Complaint: You need the loo constantly and feel like fire down below when you pee.
What it is: Urinary tract (the opening where you pass urine) infection.
How it happened: Holding your bladder for a long time or failing to empty it properly can give you this problem. Also, wiping from the back to the front after you've peed can cause this too.
Action: Drink plenty of water to flush the bacteria out. Slurp cranberry juice to cool the fire.
Case #3
Complaint: There is no symptom in general although some girls see a change in the texture of their vaginal discharge or experience itching and tummy pains.
What it is: Chlamydia.
How it happened: Through having unprotected sex.
Action Chlamydia can cause infertility so get it checked if you suspect something. It is easily taken care of with antibiotics.
Case #4
Complaint: Very nasty cramps in your lower abdomen and a heavy menstrual flow confine you to bed every month.
What it is: Endometriosis.
How it happened: Your uterus grows a lining each month, which it sheds if you're not pregnant. For reasons unknown, this tissue grows outside your womb and presses against your internal organs.
Action: Doctors will need to check if it's endometriosis by performing a laparoscopy. This is done by making a small surgical cut in the belly and inserting a camera to inspect the inside. If it's endometriosis, oral contraceptive may be prescribed to reduce and regulate heavy and painful periods.
Case #5
Complaint: You see blood in your urine.
What it is: Kidney or urinary tract disease.
How it happened: Kidney stones or urinary tract disease is hereditary. Some people are more susceptible to forming stones.
Action: See a doctor for his opinion whether you need medication or sugery. In the meantime, drink lots of fluids such as cranberry juice or water.
Labels: chlamydia, endometriosis, kidney disease, thrush infection, urinary tract disease, urinary tract infection, vaginal yeast infection, weird discharges
