Vaginal Infections in Ghana: Itching, Discharge, Yeast Infection and Bacterial Vaginosis Explained

Vaginal itching, odour and unusual discharge are very common, and they are nothing to be ashamed of. Most causes are easy to treat once the right one is identified. The problem is that different infections need different medicines, so guessing, douching or using “vaginal cleansing” herbs often makes things worse.

The common causes

Getting the right diagnosis

• A nurse or doctor can examine you and take a quick swab; results are often available the same day.
• Go to a clinic rather than self-treating if it is your first episode, you are pregnant, symptoms keep coming back, you have a new partner, or you have pain, fever or bleeding.
• Repeated yeast infections can be a sign of diabetes or HIV, so ask for a blood sugar test and HIV test.

Treatment tips

• Complete the full course of medicine.
• For trichomoniasis and other STIs, your partner must be treated too.
• Avoid alcohol while taking metronidazole if prescribed.
• Pregnant women should only use treatments approved by their antenatal clinic.

Everyday prevention

• Do not douche or insert herbs, alum, salt, lemon or “tightening” products into the vagina. The vagina cleans itself; douching upsets its balance and raises the risk of BV and pelvic infection.
• Wash the outside only, with water or a mild unperfumed soap. Recommended: Forever Aloe Liquid Soap
• Wear breathable cotton underwear; change out of wet clothes promptly. Recommended: Forever Active Pro-B
• Wipe front to back.
• Use condoms with new partners.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best medicine for vaginal itching?

It depends on the cause. Yeast infections need antifungals; BV and trichomoniasis need antibiotics. A quick test tells you which.

Can a vaginal infection go away on its own?

Mild irritation may settle, and BV sometimes clears, but infections often return or worsen without treatment. Untreated BV and STIs raise the risk of pelvic infection and pregnancy complications.

Is vaginal discharge normal?

Yes. Clear or white discharge that changes through the month is normal. Seek care if it changes colour, smells strongly, or comes with itching or pain.

Related: PCOS, fibroids and ovarian cysts and urinary tract infections.

Medical disclaimer: This article provides general health information and does not replace professional diagnosis or treatment. See a qualified health professional for vaginal symptoms, especially during pregnancy.