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DESCRIPTION
Leukorrhea is a medical term that denotes a thick, whitish vaginal discharge. It is also known as vaginitis when inflammation is present in the vagina. Leukorrhea is a natural defense mechanism the vagina uses to maintain its chemical balance, as well as to preserve the flexibility of the vaginal tissue. It may also result from inflammation or congestion of the vaginal mucosa. In cases where it is yellowish or gives off an odor, a health care provider should be consulted since it could be a sign of an STD (sexually transmitted disease).
ATROPHIC VAGINITIS
Atrophic vaginitis is a condition primarily found in post-menopausal women and those whose ovaries have been surgically removed. This disorder can result in the formation of adhesions and a high susceptibility to infection.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of vaginitis, or inflammation of the mucous membranes lining of the vagina, include:
- Burning and/or itching sensation
- Abnormal vaginal discharge.
Common symptoms of atrophic vaginitis include:
- Itching or burning.
- Painful intercourse.
- A thin, watery discharge occasionally tinged with blood.
CAUSES
There are many causes of leukorrhea, the usual one being increased estrogen. The amount of discharge may increase due to vaginal infection (vaginitis) or STDs, in which case it becomes more yellow and foul-smelling. It is usually a non-pathological symptom secondary to inflammatory conditions of the vagina or cervix.
Vaginal discharge is normal for a woman, and all women are different. Causes of change in discharge include infection, malignancy, and hormonal changes. It sometimes occurs before a girl has her first period, and is considered a sign of puberty.
Leukorrhea may occur normally during pregnancy. This is caused by increased bloodflow to the vagina due to increased estrogen. Female infants may have leukorrhea for a short time after birth due to their in-uterine exposure to estrogen.
After delivery, leukorrhea accompanied by backache and foul-smelling lochia (post-partum vaginal discharge, containing blood, mucus, and placental tissue) may suggest the failure of involution (the uterus returning to pre-pregnant size) due to infection.
Vaginitis may be caused by bacterial or fungal infection, vitamin B deficiency, or irritation from excessive douching or the use of such products such as deodorant sprays. Infectious vaginitis is often caused by trichomonas, gonococci, or other sexually transmitted organisms. Other factors, such as poor hygiene and tight, non-porous clothing, may contribute to the problem. Pregnancy, diabetes, and the use of antibiotics disturb the body's natural balance, creating an environment in which infectious organisms can thrive. Oral contraceptives can also produce vaginal inflammation.
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)
PREVENTION
Refrain from using vaginal deodorant sprays or other feminine hygiene products.
Avoid douching unless instructed by your health care provider or midwife for medical purposes.
Take frequent showers and practice good hygiene. Use gentle, non-deodorant soap for cleaning the genital area. Avoid getting soapy water into vaginal vault.
Wear natural porous clothing and especially underwear. Avoid nylon panties or other non-porous fabrics. Use natural cotton undergarments.
Avoid estrogen products such as hormonal birth control contraceptives, creams, lotions, and feminine products.
If you are sexually active with multiple sex partners, be checked regularly for sexually transmitted infections and practice safe sex using condoms. If you are allergic to latex, use non-latex condoms. Even if you are in a monogamous relationship and you begin to have burning or itching, be checked out by your health care provider or midwife.
Avoid sugar and if you are diabetic, be sure to have your condition under control. If you are pregnant, consult with your midwife about remedies to used during pregnancy. Avoid using over-the-counter medications during pregnancy to treat vaginitis.
Avoid using antibiotics unless they are absolutely necessary. If you must take them, be sure to eat plenty of non-fat, unsweetened yogurt with active cultures or acidophilus supplements to replace the "good bacteria" in your body.
Eat a well balanced diet with needed B vitamins either through your food or from a good natural dietary supplement.
DIETARY & HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
RECOMMENDATIONS
Eat plain yogurt that contains live yogurt cultures, or apply plain yogurt directly to the vagina. This can fight infection and soothe inflammation. Also consume brown rice, millet, and acidophilus.
Herbal Remedies: Acidophilus Supplement Powder, Non-Dairy, 3 oz. Bulk
Herbal Remedies: Acidophilus, 3 Billion, NOW Foods, 90 Tabs
Herbal Remedies: Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement, Non-Dairy, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Kosher Liquid, All Natural, Vegetarian Medium, Lactose Free, Apple Strawberry Flavor, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.
Consume fiber daily. Oat bran is a good source.
Eat a diet that is fruit-free, sugar-free, and yeast-free.
Avoid aged cheeses, alcohol, chocolate, dried fruits, fermented foods, all grains containing gluten (wheat, oats, rye and barley). ham, honey, nut butters, pickles, raw mushrooms, soy sauce, sprouts, sugar in any form, vinegar, and all yeast products. Also eliminate citrus and acidic fruits (grapefruits, lemons, limes, oranges, pineapple, and tomatoes) from your diet until the inflammation subsides.
Keep clean and dry. Wear cotton underwear, which absorbs moisture and allows air to circulate. Avoid tight clothing and synthetic fabrics. Change into dry clothing as soon as possible after swimming. Do not spend prolonged periods of time in a wet bathing suit.
To relieve itching, open a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil to the inflamed area.
Add 3 cups of pure apple cider vinegar to bath water to treat vaginitis. Soak in a sitz bath or tub for 20 minutes, allowing the water to flow into the vagina.
Herbal Remedies: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (Mother), Dynamic Health, Organic, 16 fl. oz.
Do not use corticosteroids or oral contraceptives until your condition improves. Oral contraceptives can upset the balance of microorganisms in the body.
Do not use sweet-smelling douches. If you must douche, try douching with 2 capsules of garlic or with 1 cup of fresh garlic juice added to a quart of warm water. Alternate this treatment with acidophilus douches; Open 2 acidophilus capsules and add them to either 1 quart of warm water or to 1 cup of plain yogurt. The garlic fights infection while the acidophilus helps to restore normal flora and acid balance.
Avoid taking iron supplements until the inflammation subsides. Infectious bacteria require iron for growth. If a bacterial infection is present, the body naturally "hides" iron by storing it in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow to inhibit the growth of the bacteria.
Drink steam distilled or quality water only.
CONSIDERATIONS
Atrophic vaginitis is often treated with prescription estrogen ointments. The use of these products increases the body's need for Vitamin B-6. Vaginal absorption of synthetic estrogen may be dangerous.
Natural progesterone cream applied to the vagina is beneficial for atrophic vaginitis.
Also see these links:
HERBS
Aloe Vera is helpful for infections and is known for its healing effects. Aloe vera gel can be applied topically to relieve itching. It can also be taken internally or used in a douche.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Concentrate, NOW Foods, 100% Organic, 4 oz. (Equivalent to 1.25 Gallons of Juice)
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 32 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Gel, NOW Foods, 1 Gallon
Barberry has remarkable infection-fighting properties.
Herbal Remedies: Barberry Microbial Defense, NutraMedix, 1 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Barberry Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Douche with infusions made from antiseptic herbs such as Calendula, Garlic, Goldenseal, fresh Plantain, St. John's Wort, Tea Tree Oil, along with herbs such as Comfrey Leaves, to sooth irritation. Echinacea and Goldenseal can also be taken orally. Caution: Do not take Goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, do not use it during pregnancy, and use it with caution if you are allergic to ragweed. Note: Comfrey is recommended for external use only.
Herbal Remedies: Comfrey Leaf / Herb Skin Poultice, 2.5 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Comfrey Leaf Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Root, Nature's Way, 570 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Herb, Nature's Way 400 mg, 180 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Goldenseal Tincture, Nature's Way, Alcohol Free, 1 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Goldenseal Supplement, Nature's Way, 180 Caps
Calendula and Vitamin A vaginal suppositories are soothing and healing to irritated tissues. Goldenseal suppositories are useful for all types of infection.
Herbal Remedies: Calendula Gel, Califlora (Relief for First Aid & Sunburn), Homeopathic, Boericke & Tafel, 2.75 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Calendula Cream (Marigold), NatureWorks, 4 fl. oz..
Chamomile has antifungal properties.
Herbal Remedies: Chamomile Flowers Herb, German Chamomile, Nature's Way, 350 mg, 100 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Chamomile Essential Oil, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 1 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Chamomile Tea, Caffeine Free, Yogi Tea, Certified Organic, 16 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Chamomile Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Chamomile Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, 345 mg, 60 Caps
Cinnamon and Dandelion inhibit the growth of Candida Albicans. They can be used as a douche or taken internally.
Herbal Remedies: Cinnamon Bark, NOW Foods, 600 mg, 240 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Cinnamon Bark, Ceylon Cinnamon, NOW Foods, 600 mg, 120 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Cinnamon Extract (Cinnamomum Cassia), Vegetarian, 60 VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Tea, NOW Foods, Organic, 30 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Root (Taraxacum Officinale) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Herbal Remedies: Dandelion Root, Vegetarian Supplements, Nature's Way, 540 mg, 180 VCaps
Echinacea has antifungal properties and enhances the immune system. It can be taken internally or used as a douche.
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Immune Support Tea, Yogi Tea, Certified Organic, 16 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Tea, Caffeine Free, NOW Foods, 100% Natural, 30 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Root Complex, Nature's Way, 180 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Tincture For Children, Orange Flavor, Alcohol Free, 100% Organic, 1 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, 340 mg, 60 Caps
Herbal Remedies: EchinaGuard Echinacea Tincture Supplement, Nature's Way, 1 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Herb, Nature's Way, 400 mg, 180 Caps
Meno-Fem from Prevail is a combination of traditional herbs and nutrients designed to combat the symptoms of menopause. It is helpful for vaginitis related to hormonal imbalance. (Unable to find this product on the internet.)
Pau D'Arco contains natural antibiotic agents and has a healing effect. It can be taken in capsule form, made into a tea, or used as a douche.
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Extract, Incan LaPacho, 100% Natural Herbal, 4 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Tea, Incan Purple LaPacho, 48 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Tea, Purple LaPacho, 25 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco, Purple LaPacho, Inner Bark, Nature's Way, 545 mg, 180 Caps
Tea Tree Oil is good for vaginitis. Topical Tea Tree Oil cream is effective against fungal infection, herpes blisters, warts, and other types of infection. Tea Tree Oil suppositories have been used successfully for vaginal yeast infections.
Herbal Remedies: Tea Oil Suppositories, 6 Count
Herbal Remedies: Tea Oil & Eucalyptus Soap, 3.5 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Tea Oil, Essential Oil, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 1 fl. oz.
HOMEOPATHIC & OTHER REMEDIES FOR VAGINITIS
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended doses are for adults over the age of 18. For a girl between 12 and 17 years, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended amount.
LEUKORRHEA-VAGINITIS SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS
Information, products and supplements for vaginitis, inflammation of the vagina.
Aloe Vera Juice, Pure Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed, Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
The magnificent Aloe plant, that is designed to be self-sufficient & thrive in the desert, feeds us in unique ways with its 250+ naturally occurring constituents including: enzymes, amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, glycoproteins, sterols, growth factors, & all sizes of uniquely complex Aloe polysaccharides and mannans.Aloe Vera Juice, Herbal Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed, Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
Herbal Aloe Force Re-Natures the cells, tissues, glands, organs and all systems of the body to function as originally designed.Barberry Tincture, 2 fl. oz.
Barberry is used for treating gallbladder disease, heartburn and indigestion and diarrhea. This herb can also be used to treat infections, parasites, psoriasis, and vaginitis.Black Cohosh Tincture, Menopause Herb, 2 fl. oz.
As a menopause herb, medical studies reported Black Cohosh to be more effective than estrogen in relieving symptoms.Candida Yeast Nelson's Bach Homeopathic, 84 Chewable Pills
Candida Yeast Nelson's Bach Homeopathic is for the temporary relief of symptoms of yeast infection or cystitis including white or yellowish vaginal discharge, itching and burning of genitalia not relieved by scratching, period arrives early.Comfrey Leaf Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
One of the most well-known healing plants, especially for its ability to heal tissue and bone.Dong Quai Root (Angelica Sinensis) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Dong Quai root (Angelica sinensis), referred to as the 'female ginseng', is rich in vitamins and minerals and is one of the most widely used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. It is effective for female disorders such as menstrual disturbances, PMS and hot flashes due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, bactericidal and vasodilative effects. The herb is also used to regulate menstrual cycles, relieve menstrual cramps and alleviate symptoms related to PMS.Echinacea With Goldenseal Root, Nature's Way, 450 mg, 100 Caps
Echinacea with Goldenseal supports the immune system.FemRelief Feminine Homeopathic Relief Bath Powder Packets (2 Packets Per Box)
FemRelief Homeopathic yeast infection remedy is a powder that you dissolve in 3-4 inches of bath water and then soak in it.Garlicin Cholesterol Control, Odor Free, Nature's Way, 350 mg, 90 Enteric-Coated Tabs
In clinical studies garlic has been shown to lower serum cholesterol and help maintain circulatory efficiency. The greatest effect resulted from garlic products with standardized amounts of allicin release in doses of 5,000 mcg per day.Garlicin HC, Healthy Circulation Formula With Odor Free Garlic, Nature's Way, 90 Enteric-Coated Tabs
Garlicin HC garlic supplement supports cardiovascular health with the help of Hawthorn, Cayenne and Vitamin E.Samento (Uncaria Tomentosa), Extra Strength (100 Times For Effective Than Regular Cat's Claw), 0.5% POA, 600 mg, 30 Caps
Samento is beneficial in the treatment of a wide range of immune system related conditions; these include but are not limited to cancer, arthritis, bursitis, rheumatism, allergies, ulcers, systemic candidiasis, all forms of herpes, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, intestinal disorders and HIV infection.Samento Liquid Extract (Uncaria Tomentosa), 0.5% POA, 1 fl. oz.
Beneficial in the treatment of a wide range of immune system related conditions; these include but are not limited to cancer, arthritis, bursitis, rheumatism, allergies, ulcers, systemic candidiasis, all forms of herpes, diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, intestinal disorders and HIV infection.Tea Tree Oil Antiseptic Solution (15% Water Soluble), 2 fl. oz.
Tea Tree Oil Antiseptic Solution can be used for mixing with water for douching, athletes foot, facial problems and bathing.Tea Tree Oil Suppositories, 6 Count
Tea Tree oil suppositories for vaginal hygiene are recommended for the treatment of vaginal infections and puritis (itching).Very Private Body Silk, FDA Safety Tested, 6 fl. oz.
This systemic moisturizer is a serious dry skin treatment; rebalance and recondition even seriously dry, patchy, flaky skin.Very Private Intimate Moisture, FDA Safety Tested, 2 fl. oz.
For the most pleasurable, lasting intimacy. Eliminates vaginal dryness instantly. So natural, feels like a woman's own moisture, really protects delicate vaginal tissue.Very Private pH Balanced Body Wash, FDA Safety Tested, 6 oz.
The ultimate in safe and sensuous bodycare. Best of all it contains a bacteria and fungal protection system so each time you wash it helps protect the sensitive intimate area against common vaginal irritations.Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.Vitamin E, Natural D-Alpha Tocopheryl, Nature's Way, 400 IU, 100 Softgels
Vitamin E has potent antioxidant activity, supplies oxygen to the blood, aids in strengthening capillary walls, and plays a beneficial role in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention, anti-aging benefits, circulation, wound-healing, immune function, nervous system function, PMS, hot flushes, diabetes, vascular disease, eye health, tissue repair, athletic performance, leg cramps, skin and hair health, and alleviating fatigue.Vitamin E (D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate), 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 400 IU, 250 Softgels
Vitamin E is a major antioxidant and the primary defense against lipid peroxidation. It is particularly important in protecting the body's cells from free radical/oxidative damage.Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Witch Hazel can be taken internally for diarrhea and hemorrhage or extremely as a rinse or gargle for sore throats.Witch Hazel Tincture, 2 fl. oz
Witch Hazel can be taken internally for diarrhea and hemorrhage.Zinc Lozenges w/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges
Nature's Way Zinc lozenge boosts cold season defense with zinc, widely recognized as an important nutritional support during the cold season, and echinacea pupurea, clinically shown to support the immune system, and Vitamin C, a vitally important vitamin for general health maintenance.
HerbalRemedies: Vaginitis Information
HerbalRemedies: Vaginitis Supplements & Products
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member have any symptoms of vaginitis, vaginal inflammation, excessive vaginal discharge with itching, burning and odor.
You have symptoms that get worse, despite treatment.
You have any unexpected or unusual symptoms. Some people may have sensitivity, allergies, or other health conditions which would prevent them from using certain medications, herbs, or other treatments. Some medications may produce side effects.
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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