Vaginal Sores: Everything You Need To Know
3/10/2022 2:46:45 PM
Since sexually transmitted infections and poor personal hygiene are the most commonly implicated reasons for vaginal sores, itâs important to practice safe sex and maintain a good standard of personal hygiene to avoid contracting these diseases. A lot of the time, these diseases can also be caused by autoimmune factors and skin conditions. It’s important to investigate the nature of such vaginal sores and blisters thoroughly to avoid serious long-term complications.
Read on as we discuss what causes vaginal sores, how to treat vaginal sores, and the outlook for conditions associated with this symptom.
How To Tell If Its A Yeast Infection Or Herpes
Vaginal yeast infections are very common up to 75 percent of women will experience this fungal infection in their lifetime, and many will have more than one, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Most vaginal yeast infections are caused by the fungus candida albicans. The naturally contains a balanced mix of yeast, which includes candida, and bacteria. But an overgrowth of candida or penetration of the fungus into deeper vaginal cell layers can cause a yeast infection, notes the Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms of a yeast infection include:
- A burning sensation, particularly during intercourse or urination
- Redness and swelling of the vulva
- Thick, white, odorless vaginal discharge that looks like cottage cheese
- Watery vaginal discharge
While a vaginal yeast infection isnt considered a sexually transmitted infection and is not contagious, there is an increased risk of getting a vaginal yeast infection when you first start having regular sex. Sexual contact can sometimes cause a yeast infection, if you have a bad reaction to another persons natural genital yeast and bacteria, according to Planned Parenthood. Infections may also be linked to oral sex, notes the Mayo Clinic.
Antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, an impaired immune system, certain oral contraceptives, and hormone therapy can also cause an overgrowth of fungus, which can lead to a yeast infection.
The First Herpes Outbreak May Come With A Flu
The first time the HSV expresses itself after you have been infected which could be 47 days after the infection, months, or years, even the sores may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms like fever, body ache, and swollen glands.5
An yeast infection does not cause these. Of course, you may simultaneously have a flu and an yeast infection. The blisters or rashes will be the telling difference.
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How Should I Treat Thrush When I Have Genital Herpes
Thrush is also known as candidiasis or a yeast infection.
It is widely thought that that using a thrush cream to treat a yeast infection can make a genital herpes outbreak worse. So if you have both at once, it is best to use a pill to get rid of thrush: you can buy fluconazole pills at the chemist or it can be prescribed by your doctor. One dose should be enough.
First of all, it may be an idea to make sure that thrush is actually what you have. American studies show that two-thirds of women who buy over-the-counter thrush treatments dont have a yeast infection at all.
Problems may also be caused by jock itch another itchy rash, often in the groin area that is usually caused by fungus infections called tinea. It is treated with anti-fungal cream, but tablets are sometimes used.
A Look At Yeast Infections
Most yeast infections are mild and can clear up within a few days with OTC treatment or prescribed medications. But others can be more severe and may take up to two weeks to clear. Some mild yeast infections can occasionally go away without any treatment and the help of home remedies, but more often than not, you will need OTC or prescription medications to treat the yeast infection.
If you choose to treat your condition with OTC medication or natural remedies and the symptoms dont go away, you need to see a medical professional who can diagnose and treat you. You may be dealing with something other than a yeast infection.
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Testing For Genital Herpes
If you think you may have genital herpes you should make an appointment with your GP or local sexual health services.
If there are symptoms present such as blisters, sores and ulcers, your doctor or nurse may be able to make a diagnosis straight away.
If you have visible blisters, your doctor or nurse may take a swab for testing, to check if this is herpes and what type. This swab can also test for another STI which causes blisters called syphilis.
The genital herpes swab tests are very reliable, though if the ulcer is too dry then it may be less likely to find a positive result.
An Allergic Reaction Or Sensitivity
Although theyre formidable organs, vaginas are also quite sensitive. If youre using a soap, lotion, or cream that youre allergic or sensitive to, that can cause itching and burning because of inflammation, says Dr. Abdur-Rahman. Things like laundry detergents that touch your sheets and towels could also be the culprit here, as can even latex condoms, if you happen to be allergic.
Whatever the cause, this kind of vaginal irritation is known as noninfectious vaginitis, which is a very fancy way of saying that youre dealing with vaginal inflammation that isnt a result of bacteria, fungus, or other pathogens, the Mayo Clinic explains. In addition to that itching and burning, noninfectious vaginitis can cause some pretty wonky discharge .
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What Are The Symptoms Of Vulvar Lichen Planus
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the following are possible symptoms of lichen planus:
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Bumps and patches on the skin that itch
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Soreness, burning, and tenderness
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Blisters and open sores that may make urination and sexual intercourse painful
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Pale appearance or white lacy pattern on the vulva
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Yellowish discharge
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Fragile and thin vaginal skin, which sometimes causes cracking and bleeding
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If left untreated, this skin condition can erode the vaginal skin tissues, especially the labia minora .
It is not difficult to understand how some women may mistake these symptoms for or some other sort of .
When To Consult A Doctor
When the situation for both infections seems unusual, its time to consider reaching out to a medical professional.
Candidiasis should only last up to two weeks with treatment. However, if it does not disappear within that time frame, you should seek help from your doctor. Recurring yeast infections are also unusual and may cause an underlying disease or complication.
Regarding genital herpes, you should schedule a visit to your doctor soon as you identify the symptoms. Genital herpes does not have a cure, so symptoms will persist until the patient is given the appropriate suppressive or intermittent treatment.
Unfortunately, this medication is only available through prescription. Therefore, patients should see their doctor as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading to other individuals.
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Genital Herpes: Symptoms And Treatments
The tell-tale sign of herpes is blisters on or around the genital area . These blisters eventually break and become painful sores. Outbreaks are more frequent during the first year. Although there is no cure, the frequency generally decreases with each passing year.
This condition, unlike a yeast infection, is treated with antiviral medications. These medications will not cure herpes, but they can help make outbreaks shorter, less severe and less frequent.
If genital herpes is not treated, you can touch sores and spread herpes to another part of your body, such as your mouth or eyes, according to the CDC.
Are Canker Sores Caused By The Herpes Virus
Canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers, are not caused by the herpes virus or any other virus. Canker sores typically appear as small, shallow lesions on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums, according to the Mayo Clinic. They usually have a white or yellow center and a red border, and they typically occur on or under the tongue, inside the cheeks or lips, on the gums, or on the roof or back of the mouth.
Unlike cold sores, canker sores occur only inside the mouth, and they are not contagious.
Minor canker sores, which are the most common kind, are usually small and oval shaped with a red edge, and they heal in one to two weeks, without leaving scars, per the Mayo Clinic.
Major canker sores, which are less common, are larger and deeper than minor ones. They are typically round with defined borders, but they may have irregular edges when they are very large. Major canker sores can be very painful, and they may take up to six weeks to heal. They may also leave scars.
Herpetiform canker sores are uncommon. They are the size of a pinpoint and often occur in clusters of 10 to 100 sores, but they may merge into one large ulcer. These sores have irregular edges, and they heal without scarring in one to two weeks.
According to the Mayo Clinic, canker sores may be triggered by a variety of factors, including:
- A faulty immune system
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Penile And Vaginal Discharge
Bodily discharge is sometimes commonly associated with genital herpes. It occurs in men and women who experience recurrent outbreaks of herpes. The term discharge refers to the leaking or emission of fluid from a humans genitalia or sex organs. In a male, the herpes discharge is emitted from the penile head, whereas in a woman, herpes vaginal discharge leaks out from the vaginal opening.
In both cases, whether it is herpes vaginal discharge or penal discharge, the appearance of the liquid may be clear and thin or it can be a murky and thick fluid. In addition to the colorless fluid, some people may even observe a small amount of blood leak from either of the sex organs in the discharge or during urination.
How To Know If Its Gonorrhea Or Genital Herpes
Gonorrhea is a bacterial STI that can affect the genitals, rectum, and throat, according to the CDC. The infection is very common, especially among young people ages 15 to 24 years old.
Most women with gonorrhea don’t have any symptoms, and if they do, they are often mild and can be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection, per the CDC. Symptoms of gonorrhea in women may include:
- Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
- Increased vaginal discharge
Symptoms of gonorrhea in men may include:
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Less commonly, painful or swollen testicles
Rectal infections in men and women may cause no symptoms or cause symptoms including:
- Painful bowel movements
In women, untreated gonorrhea can cause PID, notes the CDC. In men, gonorrhea can cause a painful condition in the tubes attached to the testicles and in rare cases, lead to infertility.
Untreated gonorrhea can also spread to your blood or joints, which can be life-threatening, but this is also rare. Having untreated gonorrhea may also increase your chances of getting or giving HIV.
Healthcare providers typically collect a urine sample to diagnose gonorrhea. Your provider may also use swabs to collect samples from your throat and/or rectum.
Treatment with antibiotics can cure gonorrhea, but drug-resistant strains of the infection are on the rise. You should return to your healthcare provider if your symptoms continue for more than a few days after you receive treatment.
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What Is The Difference Between Genital Herpes And Genital Warts
Both genital herpes and genital warts are STIs, are spread through skin-to-skin contact, and are caused by a virus. But the viruses that cause genital herpes and genital warts are different:
- Herpes simplex virus is the virus that causes genital herpes.
- Human papillomavirus is the virus that causes genital warts.
There is no cure for either genital herpes or genital warts. But, different medicines can help manage the symptoms of herpes and treat the complications of HPV infections that can cause genital warts.
Is That Spot A Pimple Or A Cold Sore
Acne is most common in teens and young adults, but people of all ages can and do get it, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Among teenagers, it is more common in boys. Among adults, it is more common in women. For most people, acne tends to clear up by the time they reach their thirties, but some people in their forties and fifties still have it.
Acne occurs when hair follicles under the skin become clogged with oil or dead skin cells, causing lesions commonly known as pimples or zits. Acne usually occurs on the face but can also appear on the back, chest, and shoulders.
Acne can cause inflammation, swelling, redness, heat, or pain. Different types of acne include:
- Whiteheads: Clogged follicles that stay beneath the skin and cause a white bump.
- Blackheads: Clogged follicles that appear black and reach the surface of the skin.
- Papules: Lesions that are inflamed and usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin.
- Pustules or pimples: Papules topped off by white or yellow pus-filled lesions that may be red at the base.
- Nodules: Large, painful, solid lesions that are deep within the skin.
- Severe nodular acne : Deep, painful lesions that are filled with pus.
Hormones, stress, medications, and diet are among the factors that may trigger acne outbreaks or make them worse.
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What Is Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is an extremely prevalent sexually transmitted disease. According to the CDC, over one in six American residents aged 14 to 49 have genital herpes, which can be caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 or herpes simplex virus type 2 . Most people wont have any symptoms, which explains why many will have no clue they are infected. Any sexually active person is at risk of genital herpes.
Like other herpes viruses, such as chickenpox, genital herpes rests and remains in the body forever once contracted. However, it can have episodic breakouts, at which times there are rashes and sores on and around the genitals. Those sores eventually burst and become ulcers, with pus and fluid draining from them.
As time goes on, outbreaks tend to be less severe and less frequent. However, even when the patient isnt in the midst of an outbreak, the disease is still contagious and people who know they are infected should take care to use protection during sex, also making their partner aware of the condition.
Jock Itch Vs Genital Herpes
When it comes to jock itch vs. herpesboth genital and oralit’s very easy to tell the difference. Unlike jock itch, genital herpes isnt the result of a fungus. Instead, herpes sores are the result of a viral infection. Most cases of genital herpes are the result of infection with the HSV-2 type of the virus, although genital HSV-1 is possible and is becoming increasingly commonplace.
Jock itch symptoms may be similar in some cases to those of genital herpes, but there differences are very apparent. First, its unrelated to moisture or cleanliness. You arent any more likely to get herpes by not showering immediately after you exercise or through underwear thats overly tight or non permeable.
Instead, genital herpes is always caused by infection with either the HSV-1 or HSV-2 virus. The infection rate for genital herpes is very higharound 12% worldwidemaking it by far one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.
The signs of genital herpes are quite different from those of jock itch. Genital herpes typically doesnt cause large patches of skin to become inflamed or red. It also doesnt form the same circular pattern that jock itch does.
Herpes lesions can also develop on the buttocks, thighs and around the anusthe same areas that are often affected by fungal infections like jock itch.
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Customer Reviews And Brand Reputation
FemiClear does not have Trustpilot or Better Business Bureau registration. However, the company website features several customer reviews.
These reviews generally praise the quality of FemiClear products and state that the ointments are easy to apply and work immediately. Customers also generally report that the genital herpes items are effective in relieving itching and burning.
However, some people reported a burning sensation after applying HClear, suggesting that this product may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin.
How To Get Treatment For These Symptoms
If you are experiencing itching, burning, soreness, bleeding, fissures, thick white patches of skin, or ulcers or blisters in the vulvar area, you should see your gynecologist. Most doctors will be able to diagnose these conditions by doing a vulvar skin biopsy.
Donât try to guess at what these symptoms mean or try to self-diagnose. Many women suffer needlessly from lichen planus and lichen sclerosus because they think it is some sort of recurring yeast infection. Although both of these genital skin conditions can be chronic and without a definitive cure, there is treatment that is extremely effective. An early diagnosis and treatment can prevent pain, scarring, and damage to the vulvar skin and tissues.
While these conditions canât be cured, they can be treated and managed. Cortisone creams have been found to be effective in reducing symptoms. Some people find that over-the-counter antihistamine creams help reduce pain and itching.
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Differences Between Yeast Infection And Herpes
The key difference between candidiasis and herpes are as follows:
Origins or cause Candidiasis is caused by a hormonal imbalance in the womans body, usually caused by pregnancy or birth control medication. The overgrowth of yeast within the vaginal area causes candidiasis to appear and spread. On the other hand, genital herpes is only transmitted through sexual activity or direct contact with other infected individuals. Unlike herpes, candidiasis is often contagious.
Symptoms Candidiasis is characterized mostly by the itching, soreness, and cream cheese substance found in the vaginal area. Conversely, herpes does not have this symptom and is distinguished by painful blisters that eventually break open. Although they both cause soreness within the affected areas, their main symptoms are very different. In addition, patients with Candidiasis often do not have flu-like symptoms unless complications arise, which is quite common for herpes patients.