Condoms and vaginal infections
Condoms can be used to prevent pregnancy and STDs. However you may be wondering if it can cause vaginal infections.
Not all Itching and vaginal discharge are indication of yeast infection.
There are 3 main vaginal infections that are not sexually transmitted disease .
- Yeast infections :They are usually characterized by thick white vaginal discharge and severe itching both inside the vaginal or on the outside vulva. Condoms do not necessarily cause yeast infection. It is an imbalance of the normal ecosystem of the vagina that results in these infections. They can be treated with tablets like diflucan or some of the over the counter yeast cream.
- Bacterial imbalance : There is another vaginal infection which is known as bacterial infections ( bacterial vaginosis). This is also as a result of an imbalance of the bacteria inside the vagina. This causes foul smelling discharge that is grayish and itching or burning. This is treated with prescription antibacterial cream or medication taken by mouth.
- Contact or irritant Dermatitis of the Vulva :The third type is irritation. This is what can be caused by a condom. Most of the time it is something that women put in and around the vagina such as lubricants, sprays, deodorized tampons, creams, fragrant soaps, laundry soap and douches. These are not harmful but women who are sensitive can have irritation that causes symptoms that mimic an infection. Some women are even sensitive to the material that condom is made of and this can cause irritation.
The vagina is an incredible organ. It has the ability to maintain its own pH. It doesn’t really need any vigorous cleaning to maintain the pH. You can try to sleep with no underwear on from time to time to help good air flow in that area.
Content Sources
Can lubricant or condom use cause yeast infection. Essence . http://www.essence.com/love-sex/ask-gynecologist-can-lubricants-condoms-cause-yeast-infection. Accessed August 15th, 2017