Many women experience intimate discomfort at some point in their lives, which can manifest in a variety of ways.
The symptoms are diverse. Sometimes it is just a little redness or itching, other times it is a burning sensation when urinating. To know when you should take action, it is important to understand how these symptoms develop. You can easily resolve some of them from home with the right care. However, if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to see a doctor before they get worse.
Vaginal imbalance
The lactic acid bacteria of the vaginal flora have the task of protecting your intimate area from bacteria, germs, and fungi. If they become unbalanced, the risk of infection increases and unpleasant symptoms can occur.
Symptoms
- Foul-smelling, gray-whitish discharge
- The vaginal pH value is between 3.8 and 4.5. From 4.6, the increased value indicates that the vaginal flora is disturbed. This does not always lead to symptoms and can remain unnoticed for a long time.
Causes
- Incorrect or excessive intimate hygiene.
- Hormonal changes, for example due to menopause.
- Underwear made of polyester or nylon promotes a warm and moist environment in the intimate area, which upsets the balance of the vaginal flora.
- Taking antibiotics.
Help
- If an imbalance in the vaginal flora goes unnoticed for a long time, the intimate area is not sufficiently protected, which can lead to infections. To counteract this, you can regularly check your pH level with a vaginal self-test to prevent potential discomfort at an early stage.
- For proper hygiene, it is recommended to clean the intimate area only with warm water or, alternatively, with a mild cleansing foam.
- With a lactic acid treatment, you can support your vaginal flora in restoring its natural pH level in the intimate area. Alternatively, vaginal suppositories are a practical application form – especially ideal for use overnight.
- Cotton underwear allows the skin in the intimate area to breathe and helps to absorb moisture.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is the result of an imbalance in the vaginal flora. The lactic acid bacteria are outnumbered, which allows other bacteria to multiply rapidly and lead to intimate discomfort. While vaginosis is generally not dangerous for women, it can become uncomfortable, and even though you can support your intimate area with the right care, vaginosis should always be evaluated by a doctor. This is especially important during pregnancy, as the infection can otherwise have serious consequences for your unborn child.
Symptoms
- There is itching or a burning sensation in the intimate area.
- Increased vaginal discharge, which may have a fishy odor.
- Pain may occur during sexual intercourse and/or urination.
- The vaginal pH level is above 4.5.
Causes
The cause of bacterial vaginosis is an imbalance in the vaginal environment. For this reason, the triggers here are the same. Once the vaginal flora is disrupted, the bacteria have an easy time and can cause discomfort.
Help
In addition to visiting a doctor, you can support your intimate area with the right care. For example, you can ensure good air circulation by wearing breathable underwear. In addition, the ELANEE 3-Level Concept with the appropriate products helps to restore the pH balance. As the name suggests, this concept is based on 3 important pillars.
Level 1: Intimate care and prevention
Level 2: Intensive care and regeneration
Level 3: Acute relief, prevention and balance
Cystitis and urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections are an unpleasant and often painful matter. The most well-known among them is cystitis, and many women are affected by it at least once in their lives. However, urethritis, prostatitis, nephritis, and pyelonephritis also fall into this category. But how do you know if you are suffering from a urinary tract infection?
Symptoms
The symptoms can be divided into two different categories. However, even if an uncomplicated infection doesn't sound that bad, you should never ignore the symptoms and, in case of doubt, always consult a doctor before complications arise.
Uncomplicated infection
- Burning or pain during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate that worsens at night
- Urinary incontinence
Complicated infection
- If a bladder infection is not treated, the infection travels up to the kidney area and causes a kidney or kidney pelvis infection
- Flank pain
- Blood in the urine
- Nausea, high fever, chills, and vomiting
Causes
Urinary tract infections are generally caused by bacteria. The most common cause is intestinal bacteria that enter the urethra during bowel movements. However, in some cases, the triggers are bacteria that reach the kidneys via the bloodstream, for example, and cause an infection there.
Other factors include, for example:
- sexual activity
- antibiotics
- stress
- hormonal fluctuations due to
- menopause or pregnancy
- lack of intimate hygiene
- a disturbed vaginal flora
- diabetes
Help
For mild symptoms, home remedies can help fight the inflammation.
- Drink at least two to three liters. For example, water or kidney and bladder teas.
- Keep your lower body warm with blankets, heating pads, or menstrual heat patches.
- Give your body plenty of rest and recovery.
Vaginal yeast infection
A vaginal yeast infection is an unpleasant infection caused by a yeast fungus. If you are pregnant or your symptoms do not disappear within a few days, it is advisable to see a doctor to receive medical treatment.
Symptoms
- Burning pain
- Itching in the intimate area
- Redness and swelling of the vagina
- Flaky, thick to crumbly discharge with a yellowish discoloration
- White coating on the vaginal mucosa
Causes
It is normal for yeast to be present in the vaginal environment. If the vaginal flora is disrupted, the lactic acid bacteria can no longer keep the naturally occurring fungi in check, and they multiply. This, in turn, leads to an infection.
Help
If you suspect that you have a vaginal yeast infection, seeing a doctor is the most effective way to treat it, as you will need an antifungal medication to combat the fungus effectively. Once the infection has cleared, you can take preventive measures to keep your vaginal flora balanced and prevent it from recurring.
Vaginal dryness
Many women are affected by vaginal dryness at some point in their lives. Age plays no role here, as the causes are varied and the symptoms can significantly impair quality of life.
Symptoms
- Sexual intercourse can be painful and may lead to slight bleeding
- Burning and itching in the genital area
- Burning during urination
Causes
- Hormonal changes due to menopause, menstruation, or pregnancy
- improper intimate hygiene
- stress
- alcohol and nicotine
- medication or chronic illnesses
Help
There are many ways to combat vaginal dryness, such as lifestyle changes or hormonal treatments that can provide support during menopause. In this regard, there is also the ELANEE 3-level concept, which offers perfect support through suitable care products.
Level 1: Intimate care and prevention
Level 2: Quick, situational support
Level 3: Intensive care and long-term regeneration
Gentle cleansing with warm water and a mild wash foam is a proven home remedy for itching. Additionally, mild cooling, for example with a wet towel, can help to soothe the irritation.
The most common cause is a disrupted vaginal environment. This means that the beneficial lactic acid bacteria are impaired and can no longer effectively fight against bacteria. Itching in the intimate area is one of the most frequently occurring symptoms.
Gentle cooling and airy clothing can help to soothe the burning or make it more comfortable. Our gentle Intimate Care Cream can help support skin regeneration.
Vaginal discharge is a completely normal bodily mechanism. If the intimate area is healthy, the color is clear to milky. However, if there is an infection, the color and consistency are often altered.
- White and crumbly: Yeast infection
- Yellow to green: Bacterial infection
- Brown or bloody: Period or spotting
For vaginal dryness, our gels or suppositories, which are specially formulated for the intimate area, help to moisturize the mucous membranes in the intimate area.
Always seek medical advice
Important note: This article contains only general information and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a doctor.
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