My boyfriend and I use condoms in combination with spermicide. It seems like every time after we have intimate moments I have something like a yeast infection. I have several days where I have a discharge, which I think is the spermicide, but I also have some burning and a little itch. This last time, it lasted two to three weeks. I don't understand what is going on. I don't have any problems during the sex or for a few days after except for the discharge. Is there a possibility that I could have an allergy to spermicide? I was told I had a bacteria infection over three months ago, but I took the pills they gave me.
It could simply be a reaction to the spermicide. Many people who use spermicide experience burning or itching or rash. But because you mention that you had a bacterial infection a few months ago, and those frequently return, Id recommend seeing your gynecologist again to make sure it hasnt come back. Make sure they are checking for both a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis, because those require different medications. If its coming back frequently you can ask your gynecologist about preventative treatment.
I recently started to use tampons. They go in just fine, but taking them out hurts like a bitch! I'm leaving them in for 6 to 8 hours and they are saturated. What's going on?
First, make sure youre relaxing your pelvic floor muscles when removing the tampon. Then, whats really important is to use the right absorbancy tampon. Try using a lighter tampon to make sure its getting fully saturated. You should also try unscented tampons, and the organic cottons ones that are unbleached, if you're not using them already. Many women's skin is very sensitive to scents or dyes, and thats the same in your vagina. If your skin is getting irritated, your vagina could be swelling, making removal difficult. You could also have an underlying vaginal infection, so if none of those things work, see your gynecologist to rule that out, along with other issues.
Dr. Iris Orbuch is the director of the Advanced Gynecologic Laparoscopy Center and the co-director of gynecologic robotic surgery at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Do you have a women's health question for Dr. Iris? Submit it here!
Photo credit: Courtesy of Iris Orbuch
