Symptoms may include discharge that has an abnormal color or odor, vaginal pain, dryness, itching, redness and irritation. Symptoms may be constant or vary with the menstrual cycle or other factors.
WHAT CAUSES THESE SYMPTOMS?
Often these symptoms are caused by an imbalance in the normal healthy flora of the vaginal tract. Infection can play a role, as well as hormonal balance, pH imbalance, food sensitivities, and exposure to irritants such as personal hygiene products and non-breathable fabrics.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI) OR BLADDER INFECTION (CYSTITIS)?
Symptoms can range from no symptoms to severe pain with urination, burning, urgency, increased frequency of urination, incontinence, change in the odor of urine, cloudy or blood tinged urine, fever, and back pain
WHAT CAUSES URINARY SYMPTOMS?
Most often the cause is an E. coli infection, however there are a number of organisms that may be involved. Infection can be caused by inadequate hygiene, low immune function, incomplete bladder emptying, or structural abnormalities in the urinary tract that interfere with voiding. When the bladder does not empty properly, the residual urine can breed infection.
HOW ARE VAGINAL AND URINARY CONDITIONS TREATED FROM A NATUROPATHIC PERSPECTIVE?
Our goal is always to treat the root cause of the problem instead of masking the symptoms. In order to further evaluate your symptoms, we may order a salivary hormone panel, food sensitivity test, blood work, urine analysis, or vaginal culture to determine the cause. Dietary and lifestyle changes are often an important part of the treatment plan. Avoid your food sensitivities and drink plenty of water. Sugar should also be avoided because not only does it suppress the immune system, but it also feeds the bacteria. Do not use scented personal hygiene products such as tampons which can irritate the skin of the vaginal tract, and wear cotton fabrics to allow the skin to breathe. Anti-microbial prescriptions will help kill off any unwanted microbes and probiotics will help restore balance to the natural flora. We also carry natural suppositories to help soothe irritated tissue and support the healing process. Using high quality professional products with guaranteed potency is important to ensure that there are no impurities and your treatment will be safe and effective.
