Why do I have vaginal itching, swelling, and discharge?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Based on your symptoms (persistent itching, swelling, foul-smelling white watery discharge, and lack of improvement with antifungals and Bactrocin), here are the most likely causes and the steps you should take:

Possible causes:

1. Bacterial vaginosis (BV):

• Symptoms: Fishy odor, thin gray or white watery discharge, irritation.

• Treatment: Usually requires oral antibiotics like Metronidazole or Clindamycin, not just creams.

2. Recurrent or resistant yeast infection (candidiasis):

• Symptoms: Thick white discharge, intense itching, swelling.

• Note: Over-the-counter antifungals may not be effective. You might need a prescription oral antifungal such as Fluconazole (possibly over several days).

3. Mixed infection (BV + Yeast): Common in long-standing or untreated cases, where one infection promotes the other.

4. Allergic reaction or dermatitis (inflammation of the skin causing redness, itching, and irritation):

• Causes: Soaps, sanitary products, detergents, or tight or synthetic clothing

• It may worsen irritation even if there is an infection.

Kindly consult your doctor and take medicines accordingly.

When to seek urgent care:

• Consult a gynecologist immediately if you experience:

• Burning during urination.

• Pain during sex.

• Fever.

• Worsening or colored discharge.

• Sores or ulcers.

Next steps:

• See a gynecologist for a vaginal swab test to identify the exact infection.

• You may need a combination of oral antibiotics (Metronidazole) and oral antifungal (Fluconazole).

• Consider using probiotics (oral or vaginal) to restore healthy vaginal flora.

Avoid:

• Self-medicating further without a diagnosis.

• Using soaps or intimate washes inside the vagina (use only plain water externally).

• Wearing tight or synthetic underwear (prefer cotton).

Libido and sexual health:

Infections and ongoing discomfort often reduce sexual desire. Once the infection is properly treated, libido typically returns. If it does not, hormonal or psychological factors may also need to be evaluated.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.