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23 years
Hi been having a problem for about a year now. my genital area smells even after taking a shower and it itches a little. help?
Aug 3, 2014

Dr. Zakia Dimassi Pediatrics
Infections in the pubic area or vagina produce symptoms of pruritus (itchy sensation), pain/burning with urination, abnormal secretions (not the clear normal vaginal secretions) that can have a foul smell. These infections can be due to imbalance in the normal bacteria found in the vagina due to altered pH (vaginal pH tends to be low ie acidic due to use of intimate washes), hygiene issues, sexual activity, or sweat glands producing excessive sweat.
1- Vaginal candidiasis: caused by a fungus called Candida. Not a sexuallyttransmitted infection (STI). Causes severe itching, burning, and cotton wool whitish secretions. Can be treated with itraconazole or fluconazole (topical cream plus oral tablets).
2-Bacterial vaginosis: can be due to more than one type of bacteria. Not an STI but more likely with sexual intercourse. Mayprogress uupward and result in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). causes itchiness, burning, and a fish-like smelling secretions. Culture of those is needed to identify the causing agent &giving the right treatment.
3-Trychomycosis: pubic rash, foul odor, or growths on the pubic hair are seen. Treatment is with drying agents.
4-STI: 2 very common infections are Trichomoniasis which pproduce green frothy foul smelling secretions and causes pain during intercourse, and Chlamydia infection, which is common in women with multiple sexual partners and is characterized by some vaginal bleeding that is worse with intercourse. Diagnosis is made based on vaginal exam and culture of vaginal swab/secretions. Treatment is with antimicrobial agents.
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