Your genitals, like your other organs, must be kept healthy to ensure that your entire body is healthy. There are some warning signs to look for when your vagina has an infection or another type of problem that you should address right away.

Discharge from the vagina is normal – and healthy. It carries the dead cells and unwanted toxins and bacteria and prevents dryness and infections. But when your vagina is in ill-health it can be uncomfortable and disconcerting, and it can also affect your sexual life by slowing your libido and affecting your fertility.

Long-term vaginal problems may affect relationships, cause stress and lower your self-esteem. An unhealthy vagina also makes you more apt to develop vaginal yeast infections.

Some warning signs that your vagina is unhealthy include:

* Odorous Discharge – When you discover a foul odor from your vagina (fishy smell), it could indicate that an infection is present. Such foul-smelling discharge may take place after intercourse. A healthy discharge from the vagina is clear or white and is there to keep the vagina lubricated.

* Bleeding Between Periods – If you experience bleeding in between your regular menstrual cycle or if your period lasts longer than usual, you may have a problem and should see your doctor. A small amount of mid-month bloody discharge may be normal for some people, but it is better to get it checked out.

* Itching or Burning – Annoying itching and burning sensations in and around the vagina may indicate the presence of a vaginal infection. Itching and burning may also be caused by the chemicals and other ingredients contained in soaps, contraceptive products, some douching products and creams.

* Vaginal Atrophy – This warning sign happens when your body isn’t producing enough estrogen, causing the vagina walls to become thin and inflamed. Painful intercourse may indicate vaginal atrophy. Vaginal atrophy often happens after menopause and may also contribute to urinary tract infections.

* Blisters or Bumps on the Outer Genitals – This may be a sign of vulvar or vaginal cancer. Sometimes, the bumps may change color and become hard or turn into lesions. Such bumps may also indicate the presence of an STD such as herpes.

* Painful Urination – If you experience painful urination, you may have a yeast or bacterial infection of the vagina. It could also be a sign of various types of STDs such as genital herpes and chlamydia. Another possibility is a urinary infection, so see your doctor.

As with most ill-health or disease, the best prevention or cure will be in creating and maintaining an environment that supports health. Preventing an overgrowth of the organisms that contribute to vaginal ill-health is most efficiently addressed by a combination of good diet and personal cleanliness.

All women should strive to keep the vagina healthy by practicing good hygiene – just as they would for other parts of the body. Since the vagina is located near the anus and is also exposed to urination, it’s critical to keep bacteria buildup from happening.

Women can keep the vagina healthy and clean by regularly washing their feminine parts well, including the folds of the labia where bacteria builds up quickly. Keeping the vagina very clean, eating healthy and cutting down stress in your life can help to balance the health of your private parts and keep infections at bay. If you continually experience vaginal infections and other problems, especially after addressing the above, you may need to seek medical advice.