Vaginal yeast infections 113
• Wear clean, dry underclothes made of cotton (because it absorbs wetness) and
which fit loosely to let air in around your genitals and keep them dry.
• When you lie down to sleep, do not wear any underwear. This will help your
genitals to stay dry.
• During your monthly bleeding, change the cloth or pad you use to catch the
blood several times a day. If they are to be used again, wash them well with
soap and water and let them dry completely in the sun.
• Use a tampon (made from cotton, cloth or a sponge) inside your vagina, and
be sure to change it at least 3 times a day. Leaving one in for more than a day
may cause a serious infection (for more information about monthly bleeding,
see page 109).
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is another infection that causes a discharge from the vagina. It is not
sexually transmitted. If you are pregnant, it can cause your baby to be born too soon.
Signs:
• more discharge than usual
• a fishy smell, especially after sexual intercourse
• mild itching
Treatment:
Medicines for discharge: to treat bacterial vaginosis
Medicine
How much to take
metronidazole
400 to 500 mg
or metronidazole
2 grams (2000 mg)
(avoid metronidazole in the first 3 months of pregnancy)
or clindamycin
300 mg
or clindamycin
5 grams of 2% cream
When to take
by mouth, 2 times a day
for 7 days
by mouth, in a single dose
by mouth, 2 times a day
for 7 days
inside the vagina at
bedtime for 7 days
Your partner should also be treated with 2 grams of metronidazole by mouth, one time only.
IMPORTANT Do not drink alcohol during the time you are taking metronidazole.
IMPORTANT Discharge in the vagina can be caused by sexually transmitted
infections (STIs). For more information, see page 158.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007