Contraceptive Abuse: Expert Blames Vagina Yeast Infection

It is no longer news that va
gina yeast is a common female condition. Although yeast infection is popularly caused by the fungus associated with intense itching, swelling and irritation, a Gynecologist, Dr Dipo Ayandele last Tuesday has attributed its cause to abuse of contraceptives and anti-biotics.
Ayandele of Zachary Memorial Hospital, Ibadan made this known in an interview with newsmen in Lagos when he said that vaginal yeast infection is the most common of all vaginal infections.
According to him, wearing of tight underwears can also predispose a woman to this common vaginal infection. He listed symptoms of vaginal yeast infection to include painful urination, itching and burning in the vagina area. “When you have abnormal white or gray vaginal discharge, that is either watery or thick, that may be a sign of vagina yeast infection,” he said.
Other symptoms he outlined include intense itching and burning of the labia, discomfort during intercourse, redness and swelling of the skin around the vagina among others.
Dr Ayandele, however, allayed fears in his audience when he said that yeast infection could be prevente with some precautions such as keeping the genital area clean and dry. “Always wipe from front to rear after using the toilet,” he advised.
The doctor called for regular bathing as a way of keeping the vagina clean, adding that there was no need using douches which according to him, could cause irritation.
Advising women generally, Dr Dipo said efforts should be made to always put on loose-fitted cotton underwears while those whoa re already infected must avoid scratching the vagina area too hard to prevent further skin infection.
He noted that the risk of developing vagina yeast infection is increased with hormonal changes such as pregnancy, ovulation and menopause. However, it can be treated at home with prescribed medications, Dipo said.

Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi

Cross section of participants at the 2014 Rotary Annual Free Health Programme held at Oroworukwo Community recently. Photo: Nwiueh Donatus Ken