March 19th 2008 - A visit with The Gynecologist 3 - Dr Richard Etkin OB/GYN, pictured here with his wife, Mrs Etkin, joined the conversation as the guest of Let's Talk to explain Vaginitis.
Vaginitis is a term for any infection or inflammation of the vagina and the symptoms may include itching, irritation, or abnormal vaginal discharge.
The Doctor explained some different types of vaginitis and focused on the four main culprits, namely, Yeast Infections, bacterial vaginosis, Trichomonas and Atrophic infections.
Bacterial Vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. It is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that are usually present in the vagina. The Doctor explained that Bacterial vaginosis will often cause a thin, milky discharge from the vagina that may have a “fishy” odor.
Yeast infections produce a thick, white discharge from the vagina that can look like cottage cheese. The discharge can be watery and often has no smell. Yeast infections usually cause the vagina and vulva (the area outside the vagina) to become itchy and red. Dr Etkin made special mention of the need for women to vist their Gynecologist for proper diagnosis and treatment since self diagnosis can often lead to more serious problems.
Trichomonas was explained as a sexually transmitted disease and the Doctor also mentioned the importance for the partners of infected women to be treated to avoid the infection from passing back and forth and having a "ping pong effect."
Atrophic infections according to The Doctor are mostly seen in older women. Women of all ages were urged to visit with their health care provider and have any symptoms examined.
Normal Vaginal discharge was also discussed with Dr Etkin explaining that normal vaginal discharge does not have a foul odor and usually has no odor at all. Mention of douching as a way to keep clean was also explained by The Doctor who discouraged the practice.
Doctor Etkin had a message for men in particular; explaining to them that a lot of the vaginitis infections are not sexually transmitted diseases and that they really shouldn’t be blaming their female companions if they did exhibit some type of infection since most infections can happen quite naturally when the balance of the Vagina was disturbed.
If you have questions or need more information please see your health care professional.
Dr Richard Etkin OB/GYN can be reached at The Atlantic Star Center of Medical Excellence in South Hill Anguilla.
Office Phone: (264) 497 -0765