What causes itching, odor, and discharge?

“Vaginitis” describes any inflammation of the vagina, and “vulvitis” refers to any inflammation of the vulva. Symptoms can include redness, irritation, itching, strong odor, or unusual discharge. Most women will experience this condition at least once.

Proximal causes include imbalances of bacteria, protozoa, or fungi. Diseases have scientific names like bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and yeast infection, sometimes triggered by natural hormonal changes. But the root cause of vaginitis and vulvitis is usually the synthetic consumer products that we introduce ourselves.

In the delicately balanced ecosystem of our genitals, the native inhabitants are lactobacilli. They guard our vulnerable orifices and thrive in an acidic environment with a pH factor of 3.8 to 4.2.

Any number of irritants — from antibiotics to bubble baths, shampoos, soaps, douches, tampons, lubricants, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, panty liners, latex condoms, perfumed toilet papers, even feminine “hygiene” sprays — can knock our ecology out of balance and permit attack by foreign agents.

Douching causes special harm. Chemicals dry and irritate the vagina and overwhelm the friendly bacteria that keep us healthy. Worse, it can spread infection to the uterus, risking pelvic inflammatory disease. This infection of the fallopian tubes can render women sterile.

Instead of dangerous douching, simply wash the vulva daily with Nirena to stay fresh.