Chlamydia is almost epidemic, especially in younger women. Human papilloma virus is another very common sexually transmitted infection that may not cause any obvious symptoms but is linked to abnormal pap smears and cervical cancer. Trichomonas, a protozoa, and herpes simplex, a virus, are also transmitted sexually. All of these infections will need medical treatment of both you and your sexual partner. Since it is difficult to determine the kind of infection without an exam and testing, you should consult your health care provider whenever you have abnormal vaginal discharge, irritation or pain.
Yeast is a very common vaginal infection.
Its symptoms are very characteristic- a white cheesy looking discharge with itching and burning of the vulvar area. Yeast is normally found in the vagina, it only causes problems when it overgrows. Antibiotics and cortisone therapy can cause yeast overgrowth. It is also common during pregnancy and with diabetes and HIV infection. Natural treatment of yeast vaginitis includes eliminating sugar and sweets from the diet, taking vitamin and mineral supplements, keeping the vulvar area clean and dry, wearing cotton underwear, avoiding tight clothing and panty hose, and wiping carefully from front to back.