SEE: What you need to know about fungal and bacterial vaginal infections.
Any interference with this system would result in an imbalance between the population of the protective and harmful bacteria. The main beneficial microorganisms are the lactobacilli which produces hydrogen peroxide, and any reduction in the level of this substance would result in infection by opportunistic organisms.
Symptoms Of Vaginal Infection Include; Burning, itching, and an unpleasant odor are just some of the common symptoms of vaginal infections. But treatments vary by condition, so it's important to know which type of vaginal infection you have.
Some of the ways you can have a vaginal infection without sex include;
Use of Toilet
Infection can occur any time certain harmful bacteria comes in contact with your vulva. Poop germs that find their way up to the urethra — by being wiped into the vulva, migrating during sex business, or even toilet water back-splash — are common perpetrators.
Ladies: If you do feel the urge to pee, don’t ignore it!
Use of Antibiotics
The use of antibiotics, especially in a long-term produces vaginal infection. The reason for this is obvious. The high antibiotic concentration reduces the population of the protective vaginal flora, especially the lactobacilli. This would invariably promote the growth and proliferation of vagina yeast, especially Candida albicans.
Use of Contraceptives
Oral contraceptive pills do not change the numbers of beneficial lactobacilli. They keep vagina pH at about 4.4 and do not change the thickness of protective vaginal skin cells. The use of oral contraceptive pill may reduce the risk of Bacteria Vaginosis with about 50%. However, the risk of yeast infections is increased when birth control pills are used.
Depo-Provera is an injectable contraceptive that can decrease hydrogen peroxide producing bacteria within a few months of use. The consequence of these is the presence of opportunistic infections like candidiasis.
The use of spermicides with a diaphragm or cervical cap can cause a transient decrease in lactobacilli, and increase the proportion of E. coli, Enterococcus, and anaerobic gram-negative bacteria.
Douching and Use of Antiseptic Soaps
These products remove the good bacteria and impact on vagina health causing candida super-infection
Treatment for Vaginal Infections: All of these infections can be treated, but it is essential to know which infection you have so that the right medication is prescribed.
General Tips for Vaginal Health
Pretty much anything that upsets the chemical balance of your vagina may lead to infections. And, you may not even have an infection; discomfort can also be caused by a reaction (which typically goes away once you stop using whatever’s annoying your vag).
Get to know your genitals. Pay attention to your regular smells and vaginal discharge (these usually change slightly throughout your menstrual cycle). Peeking in your undies, whiffing your crotch, and checking out your goodies with a mirror may seem like new-age silliness, but it’s one of the best ways to know what’s normal for you and what’s not.