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Acne Cure
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The Leading Resource for; Acne Cure, Acne Stop, Clear Skin, and Acne Treatment  
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A sea of cosmetics crowds the drugstore shelves, luring you with claims of romance, popularity and beauty. To be happy, you must use these products! Or so the advertisers would have you believe.

Do they work? Will you be the most beautiful, the most successful, and the most radiant person if you use these products? Where does the hype end and the help begin?

Cosmetics are defined in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as "articles (other than soap) intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions."

The following are all considered cosmetics:

• skin care creams, lotions, powders

• perfume, cologne, toilet water

• makeup (lipstick, foundation, blush)

• nail polish, polish remover, cuticle softener

• hair coloring preparations

• deodorants

• shaving cream, aftershave, skin conditioner

• shampoos (except dandruff shampoos)

• bath oils and bubble bath

• mouthwash and toothpaste (with whiteners it is considered a drug)

Skin Care

Cosmetics can't work miracles, but they can help keep your skin clean and looking moist and soft. They also can temporarily close pores, plump up skin to make it appear smoother, and give you a rosy glow or blush.

Many cosmetic products are designed to protect the skin of people over 30 against dryness and the accompanying wrinkles. But these aren't the concerns of most teens. The biggest skin problem for most teenagers is acne. Some studies show that all adolescents have acne to some degree because when puberty hits, your skin starts secreting more oil. This contributes to blackheads and pimples, which cause your pores to stretch a little bit. Although acne cannot be avoided simply by washing your face, the oils on the surface of your skin can be diminished by frequent washing with cleansers made for that purpose. And there are many treatments available for acne both in over-the-counter and prescription strengths (see "Acne Agony" in the July-August 1992 FDA Consumer).

If, while trying to decrease the oily shine on your face, you make your skin overly dry, or if you're spending a lot of time outdoors in very cold weather, you may want to use a moisturizer. "Teens really should only use a water-based moisture lotion labeled 'non-comedogenic,' which means it doesn't clog pores," says Dr. Barry Leshin, M.D., associate professor of dermatology at the Wake Forest School of Medicine. "Heavier oil-based moisturizers can cause acne cosmetica--an [acne-like] skin condition directly attributed to the use of cosmetics."

Ingredients

What cosmetics can or cannot do for your complexion is determined by the ingredients of the cosmetics and your own complexion. Cosmetics contain ingredients from nature and from the laboratory. Some work well for cleaning, others are good for lubricating--and some don't do very much at all.

It's a good idea to read the labeling on cosmetics to find out what the product contains. Some ingredients, such as alcohol and mineral oil, are fairly common. Others seem more unusual and may require some explanation. Here are some examples.

• Liposomes: Microscopic sacs manufactured from natural or synthetic fatty substances which include phospholipids (components of cell membranes). When properly mixed with water, phospholipids can "trap" any substance that will dissolve in water or oil. Manufacturers say that liposomes act like a delivery system, depositing product ingredients into the skin. When the liposomes "melt," the ingredients, such as moisturizers, are released.

• Aloe vera: A plant from the lily family, aloe vera in large amounts has anti-irritant properties. Although it's an ingredient in many skin lotions, it would take much more aloe vera than most products contain for the anti-irritant properties to work.

• Vitamins: Foods containing vitamins A, D, E, K, and some of the B complex group are necessary in diets to maintain healthy skin and hair but, according to Dr. Leshin, "There is no evidence that vitamins or other additives are advantageous when applied to the skin."

Allergies

Overuse of some cosmetics can cause allergies and other skin problems (see "Cosmetic Safety More Complex Than at First Blush," in the November 1991 FDA Consumer). Ingredients such as fragrance and preservatives can cause allergic reactions in some people. Skin reactions, which doctors call contact dermatitis, should be taken seriously. (See "Contact Dermatitis: Solutions to Rash Mysteries" in the May 1990 FDA Consumer.) Even if you've used a cosmetic for years with no problems, you can develop an allergic reaction as you become sensitized to one or more of the ingredients.

Some cosmetics are labeled "allergy-tested" or "hypoallergenic," but products with these claims don't always offer a solution to cosmetic allergies. "Hypoallergenic" means only that the manufacturer feels that the product is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Before placing this claim on the label, some companies conduct tests, and others simply don't include perfumes or other common problem-causing ingredients in their products. The claim "dermatologist-tested" on some cosmetic products only means that a skin doctor has tested the product to see if it will generally cause allergenic problems. Other label claims that carry no guarantee that they won't cause reactions include "sensitivity-tested" and "non-irritating."

"Natural" ingredients are extracted directly from plants or animal products as opposed to being produced synthetically. Natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions. If you have an allergy to certain plants or animals, you could have an allergic reaction to cosmetics containing those ingredients. For instance, "lanolin," extracted from sheep wool, is an ingredient in many moisturizers and is a common cause of allergies.

Marcia Sheets, a substitute teacher in Sykesville, Md., has tried to use cosmetics for years, but even those claiming to be allergy-free have created problems for her.

"I've had hives and swollen eyes, I've sneezed because of perfumes, and I've had blotchy skin--even from some products that are supposed to be gentle. If you have allergies, you just don't use the stuff. Over the years, I've figured out what I can use and what I can't."

If you have an allergic reaction to a cosmetic, you should stop using all cosmetics until you call your doctor, who will then try to determine which ingredient, or combination of ingredients, caused the reaction.

Cosmetic Safety

Serious problems from cosmetic use are rare, but sometimes problems arise with specific products. FDA warned consumers last February about the danger of using aerosol hairspray near heat, fire, or while smoking. Until hairspray is fully dry, it can ignite and cause serious burns. Injuries and deaths have occurr ed from fires related to aerosol hairsprays.

Another problem can occur with aerosol sprays or powders: If they are inhaled, they can cause lung damage.

The most common injury from cosmetics is from scratching the eye with a mascara wand. Eye infections can result if eye scratches go untreated. Such infections can lead to ulcers on the cornea, loss of lashes, or even blindness. To play it safe, never try to apply mascara while riding in a car, bus, train, or plane. Sharing makeup can also lead to serious problems. Cosmetics become contaminated with bacteria the brush or applicator sponge picks up from the skin--and if you moisten brushes with saliva, the problem is much more severe. Washing your hands before using makeup will help prevent exposing the makeup to bacteria.

Artificial nails can be a source of problems, especially when not applied correctly. Artificial nails must be completely sealed because any space between the natural nail and the artificial nail gives fungal infection an opportunity to begin. Such infections can lead to permanent nail loss.

Sleeping while wearing eye makeup can cause problems, too. If mascara flakes into your eyes while you sleep, you might awaken with itching, bloodshot eyes, and possibly infections or eye scratches. To avoid eye infections or injury, remove all makeup before going to bed.

Other safety tips are:

• Keep makeup containers closed tight when not in use.

• Keep makeup out of the sunlight to avoid destroying the preservatives.

• Don't use eye cosmetics if you have an eye infection such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), and throw away any makeup you were using when you first discovered the infection.

• Never add any liquid to a product unless the instructions tell you to.

• Throw away any makeup if the color changes or an odor develops. Preservatives can degrade over time and may not be able to fight bacteria.

Cosmetics run the gamut from eye shadow to deodorant sprays. And consumers' concerns and questions are just as varied as the products themselves.

"Consumers are so confused by the products out there because they all do so many different things," says Lynn Reniers, a licensed cosmetologist with Elizabeth Arden. "So it's important to send them away with a very clear understanding of product usage."

When FDA surveyed 1,687 consumers ages 14 and older in 1994 about their use of cosmetics, many of the responses pertained to consumer perceptions about cosmetic labeling claims. For example, many said they expect a product to prevent or slow the formation of wrinkles if it makes such a claim on its packaging. And nearly half of those surveyed felt that a product claiming to be "natural" should contain all natural ingredients. But do these products live up to their labeling claims?

Not necessarily. John Bailey, Ph.D., director of FDA's Office of Cosmetics and Colors, says, "Image is what the cosmetics industry sells through its products, and it's up to the consumer to believe the claims or not."

Behind the image, however, are real products, and consumers want to know what works and what doesn't.

An understanding of FDA's cosmetic responsibilities can help consumers make wise, rational decisions about the cosmetics they buy.

Regulatory Authority

The regulatory requirements governing the sale of cosmetics are not as stringent as those that apply to other FDA-regulated products. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act, cosmetics and their ingredients are not required to undergo approval before they are sold to the public. Generally, FDA regulates these products after they have been released to the marketplace. This means that manufacturers may use any ingredient or raw material, except for color additives and a few prohibited substances, to market a product without a government review or approval.

But some regulations do apply to cosmetics. In addition to the FD&C Act, the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act requires an ingredient declaration on every cosmetic product offered for sale to consumers. In addition, these regulations require that ingredients be listed in descending order of quantity. Water, for example, accounts for the bulk of most skin-care products, which is why it usually appears first on these products.

Although companies are not required to substantiate performance claims or conduct safety testing, if safety has not been substantiated, the product's label must read "WARNING: The safety of this product has not been determined."

"Consumers believe that 'if it's on the market, it can't hurt me,'" says Bailey. "And this belief is sometimes wrong."

FDA's challenge comes in proving that a product is harmful under conditions of use or that it is improperly labeled. Only then can the agency take action to remove adulterated or misbranded products from the marketplace.

The Fine Line Between Cosmetics and Drugs

The FD&C Act defines cosmetics as articles intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions. This definition includes skin-care creams, lotions, powders and sprays, perfumes, lipsticks, fingernail polishes, eye and facial makeup, permanent waves, hair colors, deodorants, baby products, bath oils, bubble baths, and mouthwashes, as well as any material intended for use as a component of a cosmetic product.

Products that intend to treat or prevent disease, or otherwise affect structure or function of the human body are considered drugs. Cosmetics that make therapeutic claims are regulated as drugs and cosmetics, and must meet the labeling requirements for both. A good way to tell if you're buying a cosmetic that is also regulated as a drug is to see if the first ingredient listed is an "active ingredient." The active ingredient is the chemical that makes the product effective, and the manufacturer must have proof that it's safe for its intended use. For products that are both drugs and cosmetics, the regulations require that active ingredients be listed first on these products, followed by the list of cosmetic ingredients in order of decreasing predominance.

Examples of products that are both cosmetics and drugs are dandruff shampoos, flouride toothpastes, antiperspirant deodorants, and foundations and tanning preparations that contain sunscreen.

Before products with both a cosmetic and drug classification can be marketed, they must be scientifically proven safe and effective for their therapeutic claims. If they are not, FDA considers them to be misbranded and can take regulatory action.

Reading Is Believing

The ingredient list on a cosmetic container is the only place where a consumer can readily find out the truth about what he or she is buying. Consumers can check the listing to identify substances they wish to avoid. And becoming familiar with what cosmetics contain can help counter some of the alluring appeal showcased elsewhere on the product.

"Our best friend is the ingredient label," says beauty consultant and 14-year veteran consumer reporter Paula Begoun. "And spending the time to read it may be all that is needed to protect ourselves from hurting our skin."

But the ingredient list, although a mandatory requirement on cosmetics, is also the most difficult part of the label to understand. Bailey admits that most of us don't recognize the names of the ingredients listed because there are thousands available to chemists creating a wide variety of products. But there's no way to change that, he says, and still accurately identify the substances that are used.

Consumers can, however, obtain specific information about a cosmetic ingredient in various references, such as the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook, published by the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association, available at many public libraries. FDA recognizes the association as a reliable source of facts on substances that have been identified as cosmetic ingredients, as well as their definitions and trade names.

Cosmetic ingredient declaration regulations apply only to retail products intended for home use. Cosmetic samples and products used exclusively by beauticians in salons are not required to include the ingredient declaration. However, these products must state the distributor, list the content's quantity, and include all necessary warning statements.

They Can Be Irritating

Almost all cosmetics can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Often the first sign of a reaction is a mild redness and irritation. There is no list of ingredients that can be guaranteed not to cause allergic reactions, so consumers who are prone to allergies should pay careful attention to what they use on their skin.

Nearly one-quarter of the people questioned in FDA's 1994 cosmetics survey responded "yes" to having suffered an allergic reaction to personal care products, including moisturizers, foundations, and eye shadows.

"Because of the almost limitless combinations in all sorts of mixtures and formulations, it is virtually impossible to know if, when, or how anyone's skin will react to any cosmetic," Begoun says. She advises consumers to "buy with a healthy dose of skepticism," and to stop using an offending product and return it to the place of purchase. "Returning the product gives the cosmetics company essential information about how these formulas are working."

What Lies Behind the Meaning

FDA has tried to establish official definitions for the use of certain terms such as "natural" and "hypoallergenic," but its regulations were overturned in court. So companies can use them on cosmetic labels to mean anything or nothing at all. Most of the terms have considerable market value in promoting cosmetic products to consumers, but dermatologists say they have very little medical meaning.

Some of the more common terms that consumers should be aware of include:

• Natural: implies that ingredients are extracted directly from plants or animal products as opposed to being produced synthetically. There is no basis in fact or scientific legitimacy to the notion that products containing natural ingredients are good for the skin.

• Hypoallergenic: implies that products making this claim are less likely to cause allergic reactions. There are no prescribed scientific studies required to substantiate this claim. Likewise, the terms "dermatologist-tested," "sensitivity tested," "allergy tested," or "nonirritating" carry no guarantee that they won't cause skin reactions.

• Alcohol Free: traditionally meant that certain cosmetic products do not contain ethyl alcohol (or grain alcohol). Cosmetic products, however, may contain other alcohols, such as cetyl, stearyl, cetearyl, or lanolin, which are known as fatty alcohols.

• Fragrance Free: implies that a cosmetic product so labeled has no perceptible odor. Fragrance ingredients may be added to a fragrance-free cosmetic to mask any offensive odor originating from the raw materials used, but in a smaller amount than is needed to impart a noticeable scent.

• Noncomodogenic: suggests that products do not contain common pore-clogging ingredients that could lead to acne.

• Shelf Life (Expiration Date): the amount of time for which a cosmetic product is good under normal conditions of storage and use, depending on the product's composition, packaging, preservation, etc. Expiration dates are, for practical purposes, a rule of thumb, and a product may expire long before that date if it has not been stored and handled properly.

• Cruelty Free: implies that products have not been tested on animals. Most ingredients used in cosmetics have at some point been tested on animals so consumers may want to look for "no new animal testing," to get a more accurate indication.

The list of ingredients, once again, can help consumers determine if there is any significant difference between products labeled similar to the above, and competing brands that don't make these claims.

Since the cosmetics industry often produces new, reworked versions of old ingredients, a wise consumer will take the time to read the labels to know what's in a product and how to use it safely. After all, consumers are likely to try other products with the same recognizable names. Once you have all the information, you can begin to make your own decisions about what products work best for you.

"There is really very little that's new under the sun," Bailey concludes, "and that certainly applies to cosmetics."

Carol Lewis is a staff writer for FDA Consumer.

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Beauty on the Safe Side

Serious injury from makeup is a rare occurrence, according to John Bailey, director of FDA's Office of Cosmetics and Colors. But it does happen. Good common sense and a few precautions can help consumers protect themselves against hazards associated with the misuse of cosmetics.

• Never drive and apply makeup. Not only does it make for dangerous driving, but hitting a bump in the road and scratching your eyeball can cause bacteria to contaminate the cut and could result in serious injury, including blindness.

• Never share makeup. Always use a new disposable applicator when sampling products at a cosmetics counter. Insist that salespersons clean container openings with alcohol before applying their contents to your skin.

• Never add liquid to a product to bring back its original consistency. Adding other liquids could introduce bacteria that can easily grow out of control.

• Stop using any product that causes an allergic reaction.

• Throw away makeup if the color changes or an odor develops. Preservatives degrade over time and may no longer be able to fight bacteria.

• Do not use eye makeup if you have an eye infection. Throw away all products you were using when you discovered the infection.

• Keep makeup out of sunlight. Light and heat can degrade preservatives.

• Keep makeup containers tightly closed when not in use.

• Never use aerosol beauty products near heat or while smoking because they can ignite. Hairsprays and powders may cause lung damage if inhaled regularly.

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Helping the Buyer Beware

Despite many questions about their safety, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) have become widely used in recent years. AHAs are derived from fruit and milk sugars, and are among the popular ingredients that attract customers with their claims to reduce wrinkles and age spots, and help repair sun-damaged skin. (See "Alpha Hydroxy Acids" in the March-April 1998 FDA Consumer.)

FDA recommends that consumers take precautions with AHA and BHA products:

• Test any AHA/BHA-containing product on a small area of skin before applying to a larger area.

• Avoid the sun when possible.

• Use an effective sunscreen when using an AHA-containing product, even if you haven't used the product that day.

• Follow use instructions on the label.

• Do not exceed recommended applications.

• Do not use on infants and children.

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Prohibited Ingredients

The following ingredients, because of the dangers they impose, are either restricted or prohibited by regulation for use in cosmetics:

• bithionol

• mercury compounds

• vinyl chloride

• halogenated salicylanilides

• zirconium complexes in aerosol cosmetics

• chloroform

• methylene chloride

• chlorofluorocarbon propellants

• hexachlorophene

• methyl methacrylate monomer in nail products

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Overactive Bladder Syndrome
www.OveractiveBladderSyndrome.com

What is Overactive Bladder & Overactive Bladder Syndrome?

Overactive Bladder Syndrome, also known as Female Urinary Incontinence or Stress Urinary Incontinence, is the loss of bladder control. 

Symptoms of Overactive Bladder Syndrome can range from mild leaking to uncontrollable wetting. It can happen to anyone, but it is more common in women who have had at least one vaginal childbirth, and becomes even more of a problem during menopause. 

Overactive Bladder Syndrome happens when genitourinary muscles are too weak or too active. If the muscles that keep your bladder closed are weak, you may have accidents when you sneeze, laugh or lift a heavy object. This is stress incontinence. If bladder muscles become too active, you may feel a strong urge to go to the bathroom when you have little urine in your bladder. There are other causes of Overactive Bladder Syndrome, including nerve damage and pelvic organ prolapse.

Doctors in Genitourinary Medicine are specialists in Overactive Bladder Syndrome.  Treatments for Overactive Bladder Syndrome depends on the type of problem you have and what best fits your lifestyle. It may include simple exercises, medicines, special devices or procedures prescribed by your doctor, or surgery.

What is Bladder Neck Suspension?

The purpose of Bladder Neck Suspension Surgery is to return a woman's bladder and/or urethra to its original, "supported" position.

Vaginal Relaxation?
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(also known as "loose vagina")
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What is Vaginal Relaxation?

What is "Colposuspension" surgery?

Age and vaginal childbirth takes it toll on women's pelvic organs.  

"Female Urinary Incontinence" is one of the problems most (over 50%) women who have delivered babies vaginally have to contend with.  Women with Female Urinary Incontinence "leak" urine when they strain,  cough, laugh or run. This condition is also called "stress urinary incontinence" meaning the stress of physical activity, not emotional stress is causing her to "leak" urine.  

The problems associated with female urinary incontinence are corrected in the the "floor" of the woman's pelvis by several methods or types of surgeries - one of which is called Colposuspension. 

A woman's pelvic floor is a sheet of special muscles and ligaments that stretch across the inside of the female pelvis. Women can feel it "tighten" when they try to hold back the flow of urine - or when they strain,  cough, laugh or run. The uterus and bladder are located above the pelvic floor. The vagina and the opening of the bladder (the urethra) pass through the pelvic floor. If the pelvic floor weakens, the uterus and bladder "drop" down. The control of the urine is thereby weakened. 

Colposuspension surgery strengthens the pelvic floor to lift, or "suspend" the uterus and bladder back up to their correct position within the woman's pelvis

Colposuspension comes from the Greek word for vagina - "colpos."

What is "Urethropexy"?

Urethropexy is a surgical procedure where the support of a woman's urethra is re-supported through sutures that surround the urethra's pelvic floor  and vaginal tissues to her pubic bone.

What is the Vaginal Vault and Where is the Vaginal Vault Located?

As previously stated, Vaginal Vault Prolapse occurs in about 15% of women who have had a hysterectomy for uterine prolapse, and in about 1% of women who have had a hysterectomy for other reasons. Vaginal Vault Suspension is the surgical procedure that corrects and repairs Vaginal Vault Prolapse.

What is a Vaginal Vault Prolapse?

The vaginal vault is the area at the top of the vagina, next to and adjacent to the cervix. It can only “fall” or descend downwards toward the introitus, or the entrance of the vagina, after a woman's womb has been removed (hysterectomy). 

Vaginal Vault Prolapse occurs in about 15% of women who have had a hysterectomy for uterine prolapse, and in about 1% of women who have had a hysterectomy for other reasons.

Vaginal Vault Suspension is a surgical procedure that may be selected to correct/repair Vaginal Vault Prolapse.

What is Vaginal Vault Suspension?

Vaginal Vault Suspension is the surgical procedure that repairs Vaginal Vault Prolapse and also provides support for the apex or "vaginal vault" of the vagina to pelvic structures.

What is a Trachelectomy?

A trachelectomy, also referred to as a cervicectomy, is the surgical removal of the cervix. 

In this surgery, the uterus itself is saved or preserved, and therefore this type of surgery preserves a woman's chance of becoming pregnant and having children.  The trachelectomy surgical alternative - as opposed to the more radical hysterectomy which removes the uterus in addition to the cervix - is typically elected by younger women with early stage cervical cancer.

What Everyone Needs to Know About Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery.

Reconstructive pelvic surgery is an area of surgery dealing with a woman's pelvis, and includes gynecology and uro-gynecology.  Pelvic reconstructive surgery is many times very complex surgery that may require not just the removal of certain organs or tissues in a woman's pelvis, but may also include the resection of areas and putting her organs and tissues back together in a way that makes her more functional, with less/no pain and feels better. 

What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

Pelvic inflammatory disease, or "PID" is an infection of a woman's pelvic organs which include the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. 

Bacteria causes pelvic inflammatory disease. Bacteria can move upward, from a woman's vagina or cervix - which is the opening to the uterus, or womb - into her fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus, which then cause an infection. Many types of bacteria can cause pelvic inflammatory disease. But bacteria found in two common sexually transmitted diseases - chlamydia and gonorrhea - are the most frequent causes of pelvic inflammatory disease. 

After a woman becomes infected, it can take from a few days to a few months to develop pelvic inflammatory disease. 

The major symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease are lower abdominal pain and abnormal vaginal discharge. 

Other symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease may include one or more of the following; fever, pain in the right upper abdomen, pain during vaginal intercourse, and irregular menstrual bleeding.  

Pelvic inflammatory disease, particularly when caused by chlamydia, may produce only minor symptoms or no symptoms at all, even though it can seriously damage the reproductive organs. 

Untreated, pelvic inflammatory disease causes scarring and can lead to infertility, tubal pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, and other serious problems. 

Pelvic inflammatory disease is more common and more aggressive in HIV+ women than in uninfected women. Pelvic inflammatory disease may become a chronic and relapsing condition as a woman's immune system deteriorates. 

Women can play an active role in protecting themselves from pelvic inflammatory disease disease by following these steps and precautions: 

*  Call your doctor if you have discharge with odor or bleeding between cycles. 

*  Use either male or female condoms during sex. 


What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction, which is also referred to as outlet obstruction or outlet delay, refers to a condition in which the pelvic floor muscles of a woman's lower pelvis - that surround the rectum, do not function normally. It is not known why these muscles fail to work properly in some women, but they can make the passage of stools difficult even when everything else seemingly is normal.

What Causes Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Women with pelvic floor dysfunction find that muscle pain occurs when muscles are tense, strained, traumatized and/or otherwise inflamed. Their pelvic muscles are no exception. Causes of pelvic floor dysfunction can include:

*  Chronic faulty posture with weak core musculature 
*  Trauma (fall on tailbone, old tailbone fracture, auto accident)
*  Inflammation or infection
*  Pelvic organ disease (endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis) 
*  Repetitive motion injuries such as those from gymnastics, volleyball, soccer, ballet or ice
    skating
*  Abdominal muscle wall weakness or hernias 
*  Chronic constipation
*  Pregnancy or complicated vaginal delivery 
*  Abdominal or pelvic surgery such as a hysterectomy 


Do I have Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Women with pelvic floor dysfunction often have changes in their spine and/or pelvis.  Symptoms or conditional might include; scoliosis, short leg, swayback or a "torsioned" sacrum. The most common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction include one or more of the following:

*  Vaginal pain 
*  Pain with urination 
*  Urinary urgency and frequency 
*  Rectal pain 
*  Pain during vaginal intercourse 
*  Pain with sitting, standing, walking 
*  Pain and/or difficulty getting up from a seated or lying down position
*  Hip pain often with loss of range of motion in hips 
*  Deep pain in lower back radiating to legs, thighs, groin, hips 
*  Abdominal and lower abdominal/intestinal pain
*  Pelvic pressure or a feeling like your vagina or uterus are "falling out."
*  Involuntary loss of urine or stool 

What are Pelvic Adhesions?

Pelvic adhesions are the cause of many gynecological problems including significant pain, infertility and conception. Pelvic adhesions are irritations of a woman's pelvic organs as a result of a "pelvic inflammatory event" or from trauma to the area such as in the case of pelvic or gynecological surgery.

Examples of a pelvic inflammatory event include; fallopian tube infections that might occur from endometriosis, removal of an ovarian cyst, sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, post surgery infections, and even appendicitis and appendectomies.

As a woman's body's pelvic area recovers from an inflammation, trauma or surgery, it begins the healing process and starts to repair itself.  The woman's body and its' healing process may cause some tissues and structures in the pelvis to become unintentionally "stuck" to another tissue or structure. In a normal woman's healthy pelvis, this space is lined with a tissue called the peritoneum, which also covers the outside of organs located in the abdomen and pelvis. In the pelvis of a non-injured/non-irritated woman, the peritoneum can be very "slippery" with the the organs and structures lying immediately next to each other that "slip" off each other and do not become bonded together. With a woman who has had a pelvic inflammation, trauma or injury, her body's healing process starts a sequence of events that may result in some of the pelvic tissues becoming "stuck" to or "adhering" to tissues or organs next to the inflamed, or injured tissue, and when this occurs, the outcome may be pelvic adhesions.

What is Menorrhagia?

Menorrhagia is the medical term for women (and young girls first starting their menstrual cycles) that excessive menstrual bleeding. Excessive menstrual bleeding is defined as having a period that lasts 7 or more days each menstrual cycle (period) or is so heavy that you saturate your menstrual pad and/or tampon and need to change your feminine hygiene product(s) every one to two hours.  It is very important to inform your doctor if you have excessive menstrual bleeding! 

Women that are suffering from Menorrhagia may experience; anemia, fatigue,  embarrassing menstrual accidents, and feel that you have to restrict your life and social activities to such an extent that you "miss out on life."  Many women prefer to stay close to home so as to avoid embarrassment due to their need to go to the restroom so often so that they can change their feminine hygiene products before they become too saturated and cause even more embarrassment.


How many women have Menorrhagia?

Approximately 1 in 5 women have Menorrhagia.

Are there any treatments or therapies for Menorrhagia?

Yes, there's hope and help for women with Menorrhagia!

Here are a few of the options and therapies you will want to discuss with your doctor.

Hormone therapy - also known as "both control pills," and/or other medications may be prescribed to treat hormone imbalance. Hormone therapy is effective about 50% of the time, and may be required for a long period of time. 

Uterine Balloon Therapy - Also known as Thermal Balloon Ablation) (see below for more information)

Dilation and curettage - also referred to as a "D & C" - is a surgical procedure whereby the doctor scrape the inside of the woman's uterus to remove the lining. For most women with Menorrhagia, a D&C is temporary and reduces excessive bleeding for only a few periods.

Endometrial Ablation is another possible therapy but only if you and your husband don't plan to have children in the future. Typical Endometrial Ablation removes the lining of the uterus with an electrosurgical tool or laser. Like any surgical procedure, there are risks, which include perforation of the uterus, bleeding, infection, or even heart failure due to fluids used to open up or distend the uterus.

Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus.  As a hysterectomy involves the removal of the woman's uterus, Menorrhagia will no longer be a problem. Hysterectomy is also a surgical procedure and also involves risks. The recovery period after hysterectomy is 3 to 6 weeks. 

Uterine Balloon Therapy 
www.UterineBalloonTherapy.com

What is "Uterine Balloon Therapy"?

"Uterine Balloon Therapy" - also known as "Thermal Balloon Ablation" - is a minor surgical procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus using a balloon that is inserted through the vagina, which is then filled with a fluid and then heated.  The heat - which isn't that hot, and never felt by the patient undergoing the therapy - then destroys the lining of the uterus. 

How is is Uterine Balloon Therapy performed?

Uterine Balloon Therapy  requires light general anaesthesia, or local anaesthesia. 

Uterine Balloon Therapy involves inserting a balloon catheter through the vagina, then through the cervix and into the uterus. The balloon is then filled with sterile liquid so that it expands and fills the contours of the patient's uterus. The liquid inside the balloon is then heated and maintained at 87°C for 8 minutes which scalds the endometrial lining. 

After 8 minutes, the liquid in the balloon is then withdrawn and the balloon catheter is deflated and removed back out of the uterus and vagina. 

The lining of the uterus (endometrium) will gradually shed away (through the vagina - like a period) over a 2 to 3 week period.  The woman will experience a vaginal, bloodstained discharge over this 2-3 week period.

Almost all patients are discharged the same day after the Uterine Balloon Therapy procedure and may experience uterine cramps - very similar to menstrual cramps, for a few hours to 1-2 days at most. 

Who are candidates for Uterine Balloon Therapy?

Women who have been suffering from Patients suffering from Menorrhagia, or excessive menstrual bleeding due to benign causes, are excellent candidates for Uterine Balloon Therapy. 

The overall success rate for women that undergo Uterine Balloon Therapy is around 80% and significantly reduces menstrual bleeding for these women.

However, Uterine Balloon Therapy is not a suitable therapy for patients with submucous fibroids or patients with large and irregular uterine cavities. 

In addition, this procedure is NOT for patients who have not completed their family planning and intend to have children as becoming pregnant after Uterine Balloon Therapy can be life-threatening.


Benefits of Uterine Balloon Therapy

Uterine Balloon Therapy has the distinct advantage of being handled on an outpatient basis and with a very low risk for complications. 

Additionally, there is no effect on a woman's hormonal functioning and she will not require hormone replacement therapy unlike in the case of a hysterectomy with removal of ovaries.

Finally, most women find that Uterine Balloon Therapy is their preferred treatment for menorrhagia as they get to keep their uterus, as opposed to a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and may lead to other complications in the future, including Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

What is Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal dryness is one of the most distressing, and painful problems a woman faces.  Vaginal dryness occurs when the natural vagina secretions decreases within the vagina. The amount of vaginal moisture varies throughout a woman's monthly menstrual cycle. Vaginal dryness is particularly problematical as a woman enters and becomes menopausal.

What is a "Vaginal Moisturizer"?

Vaginal moisturizers, provided by numerous companies, and a variety of brand names, are products designed to relieve the pain and discomfort of vaginal dryness. These products are applied or inserted, into the vagina, one or more times per day, depending on the amount of vaginal dryness she may be experiencing.

A vaginal moisturizer may or may not be a vaginal lubricant.  Vaginal lubricants are normally used as an aid for intercourse and used on a short-term basis to help a woman that is not able to produce enough vaginal moisture to permit her to comfortably (and painlessly) engage in intercourse.  

A menstruating woman's vaginal moisture changes from day to day, and varies depending upon her hormones that control the production of vaginal moisture.  A woman can experience vaginal dryness even during times of menstrual bleeding, especially when using tampons, as tampons can remove the natural moisture her vagina produces which can cause irritation and pain.

What is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder?

Female Sexual Arousal Disorder or simply "FSAD" occurs when a woman is unable to attain and maintain a full and complete erection of her clitoris along with sufficient vaginal lubrication during intercourse to be able to reach an orgasm.  

Female Sexual Arousal Disorder may also be diagnosed when the woman has no desire for sexual intercourse. 

Female Sexual Arousal Disorder affects up to 43 percent of all women, or an estimated 90 million women. Most women (more than 1/2) with FSAD are postmenopausal. Some women with Female Sexual Arousal Disorder describe the condition as being "unable to get turned on," or being continually disinterested in sex. Female Sexual Arousal Disorder has  also been called "frigidity." Other symptoms of Female Sexual Arousal Disorder may include dyspareunia and vaginismus, both of which involve pain during intercourse.

The woman and her husband/partner should both be seen as this is a "couple's problem" that is typically best resolved with both partners in treatment.  Their doctor will also insure that this  is not the result of another psychological disorder which could be a primary problem. 

If the husband/ partner of a patient with suspected Female Sexual Arousal Disorder feels that this is a problem within the relationship, that concern should be sufficient for the individual to seek psychological consultation.

What is Female Erectile Dysfunction?

Female Erectile Dysfunction occurs when a woman is unable to attain, and maintain a complete erection of her clitoris through orgasm.

If the husband/partner of a patient with suspected Female Erectile Dysfunction feels that this is a problem within the relationship, his concern should be sufficient for the individual the couple to seek medical and/or psychological consultation to determine the cause of her Female Erectile Dysfunction. 

What Are Female Sexual Problems?

Female Sexual Problems are also referred to as "Female Sexual Dysfunction."  A woman may have one or more Female Sexual Problems that we are just now learning that may be related to a number of factors.  

Typically, Female Sexual Problems are labeled generically as "Female Sexual Dysfunction" until such time as her doctor or therapist may be able to make a proper diagnosis.  

Female Sexual Problems may be a cause of significant distress to both her and her husband. 

If the husband/partner of a patient with suspected Female Sexual Problems feels that this is a problem within the relationship, his concern should be sufficient for the individual to seek psychological consultation. 

What is Female Orgasmic Disorder?

Female Orgasmic Disorder is defined as a sexual dysfunction that is characterized by a persistent or recurrent delay or absence of orgasm following the excitement phase of the female sexual response cycle, causing significant distress or interpersonal problems, and not being attributable to a drug or a general medical condition. 

Female Orgasmic Disorder is directly related with the woman's inability to attain and maintain a fully-erect clitoris.  

Without a full erection of the clitoris, a woman cannot reach an orgasm.

What is Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder?

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder or "HSDD" has been defined as a deficiency or absence of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity. Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder is considered a disorder if it causes distress for the woman or husband.  The woman and her husband should both be seen as this is a "couple's problem" that is typically best resolved with both partners in treatment.  Their doctor will also insure that this  is not the result of another psychological disorder which could be a primary problem. 

If the husband/partner of a patient with suspected Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder feels that this is a problem within the relationship, his concern should be sufficient for the individual to seek psychological consultation.

What is Female Sexual Medicine?

While a gynecologist or family physician may be knowledgeable and able to diagnose disease and disorders of a woman's vulva and care for her reproductive and vulvovaginal health, he/she may lack the requisite education as it relates to "female sexual dysfunction," which is a growing area of medicine known as "Female Sexual Medicine" which treats women and the various ailments and disorders which interfere with female sexual satisfaction, including;

Female Erectile Dysfunction - see:  www.FemaleErectileDysfunction.com

Female ED - see:  www.FemaleED.com

Female Sexual Arousal - see:  www.FemaleSexualArousal.com

Female Sexual Arousal Disorder - see:  www.FemaleSexualArousalDisorder.com

Female Sexual Dysfunction - see:  www.FemaleSexualDysfunction.net

Female Sexual Function - see:  www.FemaleSexualFunction.com

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder - see:  www.HypoactiveSexualDesireDisorder.com

Pelvic Organ Prolapse - see:  www.PelvicOrganProlapse.com

Sexual Pain Disorder - see:  www.SexualPainDisorder.com

Vaginal Relaxation - see:  www.VaginalRelaxation.com

Vaginal Vault Prolapse - see:  www.VaginalVaultProlapse.com

Vulvar Vestibulitis - see:  www.VulvarVestibulitis.com

Vulvovaginal Health - see:  www.Vulvovaginal.com

It is important to note that 43% of American women -- about 40 million -- have physical and/or emotional distress relating to enjoying sex.  This is manifested in loss of interest in sex, no longer finding sex enjoyable, or providing the enjoyment sex used to bring, or the inability to complete a sexual encounter to orgasm.  or it just is not as enjoyable as it used be. Many women also report diminished sexual sensations in their vulva, vagina or clitoris while other women have pain during intercourse.

What is menopause?

Menopause is a normal change in a woman's life when her period stops. That's why some people call menopause "the change of life" or "the change." During menopause a woman's body slowly produces less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This often happens between the ages of 45 and 55 years old. A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a period for 12 months in a row.

What is hormone therapy for menopause?

Hormone therapy for menopause has also been called hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Lower hormone levels in menopause may lead to hot flashes, vaginal dryness and thin bones. To help with these problems, women are often given estrogen or estrogen with progestin (another hormone). Like all medicines, hormone therapy has risks and benefits. Talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about hormones. If you decide to use hormones, use them at the lowest dose that helps. Also use them for the shortest time that you need them.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Every woman's period will stop at menopause. Some women may not have any other symptoms at all. 

As women begin reaching the age of 40, their bodies are preparing for menopause, or the stopping of their monthly menstrual periods.  Menopause never happens all at once.  As young ladies approach their first period and monthly menstruation, her body's hormones are "transitioning" to producing hormones levels that will support monthly menstruation for about the the next 35 years. Similarly, as women reach their 40's, their bodies' hormone levels begin to change, and in preparation of menopause. 

Women will know they are approaching menopause, as they will notice the following symptoms:

• Changes in your period - time between periods or flow may be different.

• Hot flashes ("hot flushes") - getting warm in the face, neck and chest.

• Night sweats and sleeping problems that lead to feeling tired, stressed or tense.

• Vaginal changes - the vagina may become dry and thin, and sex may be painful.

• Thinning of your bones, which may lead to loss of height and bone breaks (osteoporosis).

Who needs treatment for symptoms of menopause?

• For some women, many of these changes will go away over time without treatment.

• Some women will choose treatment for their symptoms and to prevent bone loss. If you choose treatment, estrogen alone or estrogen with progestin (for a woman who still has her uterus or womb) can be used.

What are the benefits from using hormones for menopause?

Hormone therapy is the most effective FDA approved medicine for relief of hot flashes, night sweats or vaginal dryness.

Hormones may reduce your chances of getting thin, weak bones (osteoporosis) which break easily.

What are the risks of using hormones?

For some women, hormone therapy may increase their chances of getting blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, breast cancer, and gall bladder disease. For a woman with a uterus, estrogen increases her chance of getting endometrial cancer (cancer of the uterine lining). Adding progestin lowers this risk.

We would strongly suggest that women with vaginal dryness or other menopausal symptom review the Natural Hormone Cream website at:  www.NaturalHormoneCream.com  and consider a trial period of this alternative to synthetic hormones.

Should I use estrogen just to prevent thin bones?

You can, but there are also other medicines and things you can do to help your bones.

Should I use hormone therapy to protect the heart or prevent strokes?

No, do not use hormone therapy to prevent heart attacks or strokes.

Should I use hormone therapy to prevent memory loss or Alzheimer's disease?

No, do not use hormone therapy to prevent memory loss or Alzheimer's disease.

Do hormones protect against aging and wrinkles or increase my sex drive?

Studies have not shown that hormone therapy prevents aging and wrinkles or increases sex drive.

How long should I use hormones for menopause?

You should talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Again, hormones should be used at the lowest dose that helps and for the shortest time. (For example, check if you still need them every 3-6 months.)

Does it make a difference what form of hormones I use for menopause?

The risks and benefits may be the same for all hormone products for menopause, such as pills, patches, vaginal creams, gels and rings.

Are herbs and other "natural" products useful in treating symptoms of menopause?

At this time, we do not know if herbs or other "natural" products are helpful or safe. Studies are being done to learn about the benefits and risks.

Inipads
Safer, Healthier, Environmentally-Friendly
Feminine Hygiene Products, Information, Education and Resources
www.Inipads.com

COMING SOON..... 
Femgyn Health's  INIPADS!
A Tampon that's NOT a Tampon!

Femgyn Health's Inipads are like a pantyliner - but NOT a pantyliner..... 

Femgyn Health's Inipads are like a  tampon, but not a tampon! 

Our new Femgyn Health's Inipads are similar to the previous "inter labial pads" in that they are placed between the labia minora (smaller lips) of a woman's vulva, on the outside of her vagina, and not IN the vagina (see picture below) like tampons are. 

Best of all, our Femgyn Health's Inipads are made from 100% certified organic cotton, the safest and best material that can be used for feminine hygiene....  with no adhesives or harsh chemicals ever used!

Our Femgyn Health's Inipads stay in place naturally in the "interlabial" space between a woman's labia minora without any harsh chemicals or adhesives, without shifting or bunching like menstrual pads and pantiliners....  Our Inipads won't dry out a woman's vagina like typical tampons do, especially toward the end of each menstrual period.  Finally, and best of all, our Inipads won't pinch your vagina or cause irritations of your vagina - not to mention the microscopic cuts inside of the vagina, the way tampons do, especially when inserting and removing a tampon from the vagina up to 4-6 times/day!

Women use our Femgyn Health's Inipads during their menstrual periods or for other feminine hygiene reasons, such as vaginal discharge or urinary leakage.  

Femgyn Health's Inipads don't overly absorb or cause vaginal dryness problems since they aren't worn in the vagina.

Femgyn Health's Inipads absorb like tampons worn inside the vagina, but are never inserted in the vagina like tampons - where a woman's vagina frequently becomes excessively dry toward the end of her period, due to the drying properties of tampons.

Femgyn Health's Inipads have two absorbencies which are our "Light Inipads" and our "Regular Inipads."

Femgyn Health's Inipads will never bunch up or shift around like the typical menstrual pads and they are very comfortable to wear, even when sitting for long periods!

Femgyn Health's Inipads are usually replaced when urinating, and can be safely flushed down the toilet or wrapped and thrown into the trash.

Remember!!!  Femgyn Health's Inipads are made from certified organic cotton - and NOT made from the same materials commonly used in the leading feminine hygiene brands of tampons and menstrual pads. This means that our Femgyn Health's Inipads are great for you and great for our environment! 

_________________________________________________

Labia Reduction Surgery
www.LabiaReductionSurgery.com

What is Labia Reduction Surgery?

More and more women are seeking "female genital surgery" to correct problems relating to their vulvas whether they are unhappy with the looks of their vulva or if their elongated labia minora are causing them pain or embarrassment - female genital surgery can correct these problems.

Some of the more common reasons given by women to seek female genital surgery include;  

• labia minora (smaller lips of the vulva) are uneven, mis-shapen or elongated

• one of the labia minora lips is longer than the other

• labia minora feel "floppy"   

• no longer able to wear a bikini or favorite swimsuit because you are afraid that your labia minora may "fall out" of the bikini

• long labia minora cause pain during intercourse or when wearing tight jeans.

• clitoral hood has excess skin which is either unsightly or interferes with sexual pleasure

• too much skin surrounding your clitoris

• after childbirth, my vagina seems too loose, and intercourse doesn't feel the same

• your vagina feels like it is "gaping" open  

• intercourse is no longer pleasurable, for you - or for him and doesn't feel as good as it once did 

What you, and he, are experiencing, is something called "Vaginal Relaxation" the medical term for having a "loose vagina."

These are just some of the complaints we regularly hear from women who want to improve their vulva and how it looks (and feels) - and what we call "cosmetic gynecology." 

Cosmetic gynecology may be what you have been looking for!  Look great, feel great, we can help you have the labia minora, vagina or vulva you always dreamed of!

Vaginal Dryness
www.VaginalDryness.net

What is Vaginal Dryness?

Vaginal dryness is one of the most distressing, and painful problems a woman faces.  Vaginal dryness occurs when the natural vagina secretions decreases within the vagina. The amount of vaginal moisture varies throughout a woman's monthly menstrual cycle. Vaginal dryness is particularly problematical as a woman enters and becomes menopausal.

What is a "Vaginal Moisturizer"?

Vaginal moisturizers, provided by numerous companies, and a variety of brand names, are products designed to relieve the pain and discomfort of vaginal dryness. These products are applied or inserted, into the vagina, one or more times per day, depending on the amount of vaginal dryness she may be experiencing.

A vaginal moisturizer may or may not be a vaginal lubricant.  Vaginal lubricants are normally used as an aid for intercourse and used on a short-term basis to help a woman that is not able to produce enough vaginal moisture to permit her to comfortably (and painlessly) engage in intercourse.  

A menstruating woman's vaginal moisture changes from day to day, and varies depending upon her hormones that control the production of vaginal moisture.  A woman can experience vaginal dryness even during times of menstrual bleeding.

Vaginal Odor
www.VaginalOdor.net 

I have a Vaginal Odor ( VO) problem, what do I do? 

All menstruating women's vaginas go through monthly changes wherein their vagina's smell or scent changes from one day to the next, and throughout her monthly menstrual cycle. The amount of vaginal secretions, cervical mucous and vaginal moisture, changes from one day to the next, and throughout the monthly menstrual cycle.  This is due to the flow of hormones that produce these changes throughout her cycle and also the reason for her monthly menstruation, if she has not conceived. 

Vaginal odor problems can be related to many things related to her menstrual hygiene, vaginal hygiene, and/or feminine hygiene, but may also be an indication of a medical condition that may need immediate treatment.  

Here are some of the signs and symptoms related and possible causes of V.O. (vaginal odor):

Vaginal odor may be the result of an inflammation of her vagina.  The vaginal inflammation is often a result of infection in or around the vagina or vulva, called the vulvovaginal area. Sometimes this condition is referred to as vulvovaginitis.

Causes of Vaginal Odor

Bacterial Vaginosis 
Chlamydia  
Genital Herpes  
Gonorrhea 
Lymphogranuloma Venereum ("LGV") 
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease ("PID")
Sexually Transmitted Infection(s)
Syphilis 
Trichomonas
Vaginal Yeast Infection (candida)
Vulvovaginitis 


Bacterial Vaginosis leads to vaginal odor, what causes it?

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a type of vulvovaginitis. Bacterial Vaginosis occurs due to an overgrowth of one or more organisms that are normally present in your/your wife's vagina. 

Many times, when a woman begins taking antibiotics, these antibiotics kill off the natural organisms in her vagina.  This may cause some organisms in her vagina to multiply, and these organisms produce chemicals that cause a fish-like odor characteristic of BV. Vaginal odor may be more acute, and stronger after sexual intercourse. 

Many times, while a woman may believe that vaginal douching prevents or helps prevent vaginal odor, especially after menstruation, douching actually disrupts the normal flora, or naturally occurring organisms that normally live in the vagina.  Vaginal douching, therefore,  may actually increase the risk of vaginal infection.

Signs and symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis include(s): 

*  Grayish-white vaginal discharge
*  Vaginal itching or irritation
*  Vulva/labial redness, irritation, swelling and redness

Treating Bacterial Vaginosis is normally started after a visit to the ob-gyn who may  prescribe medication(s) - usually antibiotics.

Other causes of vaginal odor include the following:

Poor vaginal, menstrual or feminine hygiene methods.

Not changing tampons, or menstrual pads frequently enough.

"Losing" or forgetting a tampon in the vagina, which may lead to a vaginal infection. 

Rarely, an advanced tumor of the cervix or vagina will cause a vaginal odor problem.

Vaginal Hygiene is an area that focuses its studies, resources, and recommended products on proper Vaginal Hygiene, and overcoming Vaginal Hygiene problems. Whether you are concerned about menstruation, whether you should consider douching, vaginal odors, vaginal dryness, menstrual odors during menstruation, or general feminine hygiene information, this site is for you.

What is Gardnerella or Gardnerella Vaginalis?

Gardnerella or Gardnerella Vaginalis is an infection in the vagina caused by bacteria of the Gardnerella Vaginalis strain, often in combination with various anaerobic bacteria. This bacterial strain, "Gardnerella Vaginalis" is also the cause of "bacterial vaginosis" or "BV." 

A vaginal infection caused by Gardnerella often produces a gray or yellow discharge with a "fishy" vaginal odor that increases after washing the vulvovaginal area with alkaline soaps. 

Gardnerella Vaginalis is one of the most common causes of bacterial vaginitis - also called bacterial vaginosis, or "BV." 

Typically, the woman will see her family physician or gynecologist with complaints of a strong vaginal odor that is "fishy" smelling, along with a vaginal discharge which is gray to white in color.  The vaginal odor or fishy smell may be released on application of 10 percent potassium hydroxide to the vaginal secretion on a glass slide during a vaginal exam by the physician.

The normal vaginal pH is 3.5 - 4.5.  Women with Gardnerella typically have a vaginal pH above 4.5 

Gardnerella Vaginalis symptoms include:

• Vaginal Discharge that is white or gray in color. 

• Vaginal odor that smells like fish and is especially noticeable after sex.

• Vaginal pH above 4.5
  

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Here on the Leading Sites for Clitoral Hood Reduction (Clitoridotomy), Labial Reduction, Perineorrhaphy, Perineoplasty,  Vaginal Relaxation and the Vaginal Tuck:

www.ClitoralHoodReduction.com

www.Clitoridotomy.com

www.LabialReduction.com

www.LabiaMinoraReduction.com

www.Perineorrhaphy.com

www.Perineoplasty.net

www.VaginalRelaxation.com

www.VaginalTuck.com

Also Providing Help for Couples Suffering 
with one or more of the following:

Female ED,   Female Erectile Dysfunction,   Female Orgasmic Disorder, 
Female Sexual Arousal Disorder,   Female Sexual Dysfunction,   Female Sexual Problems, 
Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder,   Pelvic Organ Prolapse   and   Vaginal Relaxation

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