Not all symptoms that you may experience around your genitals are caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Natural changes in your body as well as infections (that are not sexually transmitted) can cause symptoms.
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Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial vaginosis is a common cause of vaginal discharge, related to an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. It can be caused by various organisms. Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection.
The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis may include:
- a fishy smelling discharge which may be more noticeable after sex or during a period;
- thin, white or pale grey vaginal discharge.
Male partners do not get any symptoms.
Bacterial vaginosis is usually treated with antibiotic tablets, gels or creams.
There are some activities that can upset the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and put women at increased risk. These include:
- having a new sex partner or multiple sex partners;
- douching (rinsing inside the vagina) or using vaginal washes or deodorants;
- smoking;
- oral sex (licking of the vulva).
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Thrush
Thrush is a common yeast infection caused by a fungus called Candida. It often occurs during pregnancy or after a course of antibiotics. It can also be passed by sexual contact.
Thrush can cause a thick, white discharge from the vagina, itchiness or redness around the vulva, penis or anus. It can also cause pain during sex or when passing urine.
You’ll usually need antifungal medicine to get rid of thrush. This can be a tablet you take, a tablet you insert into your vagina (pessary) or a cream to relieve the irritation.
Thrush should clear up within 7 to 14 days of starting treatment.
You do not need to treat partners unless they have symptoms.
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Vaginal discharge
Vaginal discharge is normal. It’s a fluid or mucus that keeps the vagina clean and moist, and protects it from infection. The amount of discharge varies. You usually get heavier discharge at different points in your period cycle, during pregnancy (if you’re sexually active) or if you’re using birth control.
If your discharge changes – for example, in smell, colour or texture – it might be a sign of an infection. But do not self-diagnose. Contact your GP or GUM clinic if you’re worried.
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Lumps and bumps
Everyone can get lumps and bumps on their genitals from time to time. Lumps and bumps can have lots of different causes.
Sometimes hair follicles (the tiny pockets from where each hair grows) around the genitals or groin area can become inflamed. This is called folliculitis. It may be more common if you shave the area. At first it may look like a small pimple. It may be itchy, and sore but in most cases, it will resolve on its own.
Other causes of lumps and bumps include cysts, genital warts or skin conditions.
Whilst some lumps and bumps are harmless, some can be caused by infections or other, more serious, causes. If you have concerns you should contact your GP or local GUM clinic.