Women have complex and delicate internal organs and can develop diseases in every part. Therefore, they should have a consultant to provide advice on self-care and check for abnormalities in the intimate area because some issues may seem ordinary but are not.
Abnormal Menstruation can occur in women of all ages who menstruate and can be divided into two main types:
- Menstruation that occurs regularly but may be heavier than usual can be caused by various reasons such as menstrual cycle disorders caused by uterine fibroids.
- Irregular menstruation with spotting caused by hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, or gynecological diseases.
When is menstruation considered abnormal? For example, normally on the first days of menstruation, about 3-4 sanitary pads are used, and the period lasts no more than 7 days. However, if bleeding is heavy requiring 5-6 pads per day and lasts more than 7 days with severe abdominal pain, initially, symptoms should be recorded. Observe again the following month, and if abnormalities persist, a gynecologist should be consulted. The doctor can detect abnormalities through internal examination, ultrasound, or other assessments depending on the condition. If no abnormalities are found, hormone-regulating medication may be prescribed.
Vaginal Discharge is a secretion from the vagina produced to keep it moist, lubricate the vagina, and help expel foreign substances. Normal discharge is clear, white cloudy, or light yellow, odorless, and non-itchy. Abnormal discharge can appear in various forms such as green, yellow, resembling spoiled milk, or having an odor. Causes of abnormalities come from two main sources: fungal or bacterial infections and sexual intercourse.
- Fungal or bacterial infections often result from inadequate self-care such as unclean underwear, dampness, tight skirts, regular use of sanitary pads, vaginal douching, or excessive cleaning of the intimate area causing imbalance. Fungal infections can be treated with oral medication and vaginal suppositories, while bacterial infections are treated with oral medication.
- Sexual intercourse may cause gonorrhea (true or false), with discharge that is pus-colored or brown, painful urination, treated with medication and partner treatment.
Vaginal Yeast Infection mostly causes itching. Patients report discomfort in the intimate area, burning sensation during urination or bathing, caused by dampness and inadequate hygiene. The yeast infection occurs inside the vagina, but if discharge is excessive, irritation at the vaginal opening may occur, and some may develop sores. Mild yeast infections may resolve on their own, but if symptoms persist for 2-3 days, a doctor should be consulted.
Chronic Lower Abdominal Pain can be caused by one or multiple factors. Patients often report pain similar to menstrual cramps, dull and intermittent, lasting more than 6 months without a clear cause. Chronic lower abdominal pain may be related to gynecological diseases involving the uterus and ovaries, as well as other conditions such as urinary tract diseases, muscle inflammation, and intestinal issues. Diagnosis involves physical examination, medical history, internal examination, and ultrasound. In adolescents, symptoms are often due to menstrual pain; in working-age women, causes may include uterine fibroids, ovarian tumors, and chocolate cysts. For the elderly, doctors focus primarily on cancer.
Techniques for Caring for Women’s Intimate Areas That Should Be Practiced
Can be done by not holding urine, wiping dry with toilet paper after urination and defecation, avoiding wearing tight skirts, pants, or underwear, not using sanitary pads regularly, and not using vaginal douches.
