Many concepts about vaginal health have been formed in the minds of women for years. Due to these concepts, many times women are not able to recognize vaginal problems and the problem is detected only when it has become very serious. Therefore, women need to have important information related to vaginal health (myths about vagina). So that by understanding any change in time, care or treatment can be started immediately as per the need.

Maitri Women's founder, senior consultant gynecologist, and obstetrician Dr. Anjali Kumar has given some important information about the concepts related to the vagina. Along with this, she has told which are the signs that tell that your vagina needs care (myths about vagina).

Know the myths related to vagina and the facts related to it (myths about vagina)

Myth 1: The smell of the vagina should always be "good and fresh"

Fact: Many people believe that the vagina should always be fragrant. Every woman has her distinct odor, caused by hormonal fluctuations and the natural bacteria present in the vagina. While a strong odor can be a sign of infection, a mild and musky odor is perfectly normal.

Myth 2: Douching is necessary for cleanliness

Fact: Douching involves washing the inside of the vagina with water or other mixtures containing chemicals and fragrances. Contrary to popular belief, douching is not necessary for vaginal cleanliness and can disrupt the delicate balance of healthy bacteria in the vagina, leading to infections and irritation.

Maintaining hygiene is extremely important, otherwise you will not feel refreshed even after all your efforts.

Myth 3: Vaginal tightness indicates good sexual health

Fact: There is a misconception that tightness is a sign of good sexual health. Vaginal tightness can vary naturally among individuals depending on factors such as genetics, age, childbearing experiences, and muscle tone, rather than being an indication of good health or sexual satisfaction.

Myth 4: All vaginal discharge is abnormal

Fact: Vaginal discharge is normal, and serves a variety of functions, including keeping the vagina clean and lubricated, as well as preventing infections. The color and consistency of discharge may vary during your menstrual cycle, but any sudden change accompanied by itching, odor, or discomfort may be a sign of an infection that requires medical treatment and vaginal care.

Myth 5: Yeast infections are caused by poor vaginal hygiene

Fact: Yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, are usually caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans. Although good hygiene is essential, yeast infection can happen to anyone, no matter how hygienic habits they follow.

Know some signs that indicate your vagina needs care.

1. Abnormal discharge

Not all types of vaginal discharge are abnormal, some discharge is completely normal and is also necessary for the vagina. Changes in vaginal fluid can be a sign of infection or other problems. It is important to pay attention to changes in the color, consistency, smell, or amount of the discharge.

Yellow or green discharge can be a sign of bacterial (vaginal discharge) vaginosis.

Thick white discharge like cottage cheese can be a sign of yeast infection.

Grey-white or frothy discharge can be associated with trichomoniasis.

Thick white curdy discharge is a type of fungal discharge, which increases due to increased sugar levels in the body.

2. Vaginal odor

The vagina has its vaginal smell due to the natural bacteria present in it, which is normal. But an unusually strong or foul odor can be a sign of a problem like bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection. This indicates that your vagina needs care.

3. Redness, itching and burning

Persistent itching around the vulva area can be caused by many factors, including yeast infection, exposure to irritants such as soap or laundry detergent, dermatitis, pubic lice or some sexually transmitted infections like scabies.

4. Pain during sex

There can be many reasons for experiencing pain during sex. This problem should never be ignored.