Toilet Disease

The phrase “toilet disease” is generally used by most times by women to describe any and all abnormalities noted with their private parts. However the term in itself is a misnomer as there really isn’t a disease caused by the toilet.

A more appropriate term to use would be “vaginitis” which is a term that refers to conditions that cause infection or inflammation of the vagina. These may result from infections caused by various organisms, use of scented vaginal washes, harsh soaps / chemicals, even wearing the wrong underwear and also via sexual contact.

While all these conditions may share similar symptoms, their causes and therefore treatment are usually quite different. It is important to avoid guessing and improper self medication and instead recognise and differentiate the symptoms if you do develop a vaginal infection and see a health care provider for appropriate measures to be taken.

The most common cause of vaginal infections is Bacterial vaginosis (BV) which usually occurs as a result of overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina due to disruption of the normal ph balance in the vagina. This may be due to a variety of causes such as: frequent douching, use of IUCDs, pregnancy, hormonal changes, antibiotic use. It is important to note that while Bacterial Vaginosis is not considered an STD, it can increase your chances of getting one.

Bacterial vaginosis causes a thin gray-white vaginal discharge with a strong unpleasant fish like odor. There may also be burning and itching around the outside of the vagina during urination. Some women have no symptoms at all.

Vaginal yeast infections, also known as candidiasis is caused by overgrowth of the fungus Candida Albicans which is normally found in a healthy vagina in small quantities. An overgrowth of yeast can occur when there is a change in the balance of micro organisms in the vagina. This can sometimes be caused by use of antibiotics, high estrogen states such as pregnancy or hormone therapy, steroid use and also medical conditions such as diabetes or HIV infection. Wearing tight, non cotton underwear

Yeast infections cause a thick odorless clumpy whitish- gray type of vaginal discharge and may cause intense itching around the genitals. Painful urination and intercourse may also occur.

The third most common is Trichomonas. This is a sexually transmitted disease/infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It is an infection of the urinary and genital tract with the vagina being the most common site of infection for women.

Trichomonas causes a frothy vaginal discharge which may be yellow – green or gray and foul smelling. Itching and irritation of the genitals, burning during urination and discomfort during intercourse may also occur.

It is important to see a doctor as soon as any symptoms occur. Diagnosis is usually made by doing a urine test and/or taking a swab from your vagina for a vaginal culture.

Treatment is based on the cause and varies depending on severity of infection, duration of infection, recurrence of infection and whether you’re pregnant or not.