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All of those are true, and they suck. I also find that my meds don't work well for a few days before my period. There's practically zero studies done on that, but it seems to be a pretty common thing.
And that's not even including the whole pregnancy debacle. I also hate not being able to piss easily by the side of the road.... But now I'm getting hella of topic
"I also hate not being able to piss easily by the side of the road."
This. I work as a postman and everyday I am envious of men who can piss easily almost everywhere.
I'm an avid camper and love to backpack. Being a female on the trail is so f-ing hard!! Men just wee where ever they want and don't have to deal with pissing on their pants or ankles or period blood or tampons or anything. You have to pack out your trash.. Which includes period products and they'll attract animals so you have to have a special canister to keep your bloody stuff sealed and away from your tent. Its disgusting and embarrassing. As soon as I have my baby I'm getting my uterine lining lazered out. I'm done with this shit.
Sorry for the rant, you just unlocked something 😂😂😂
So.... This might sound gross but they make female urinals. Even disposable ones now.
The Amazon delivery drivers I know say they're a godsend. Pee in the truck, use a wet wipe, move on with your shift. Their trucks aren't air conditioned so they drink a massive amount of water during the summer.
Amazon branded trucks with no AC? Wow.
Is this for legitimate reason, like the door being opened constantly would ruin the system or because a multibillion dollar company is saving a dollar at the expense of employee health?
I'm not 100% sure, I'd never thought to question it. I imagine since Amazon contracts out that it's up to whoever is running the facility. One of my girlfriends is diabetic t1 so she goes through a shit ton of water. She buys these female urinals that have like, that diaper material in them to absorb it, and throws them out at the end of her shift so she doesn't get docked for stopping too often for the bathroom.
You probably have PMDD. Talk to your dr, Prozac is supposed to help. (Unfortunately Prozac doesn't mix well with all my mental illness. 🙄) PMDD is very commonly comorbid in women with ADHD. I have an IUD and don't actually get a period, but every month I have a week of insane mood swings, irritability, and thoughts of offing myself. Plus my ADHD meds stop working, so yeah, it's a bad time.
I second this! I get into really low moods and become an inconsolable crying mess until I get my period. I am currently taking Venlafaxine for PTSD but it is also used for depression, PMDD, and other mental health conditions. This is the first period I have had where I am not a complete mess. Talk to your doctor about PMDD. Maybe they can help you find something that will help
> Plus my ADHD meds stop working, so yeah, it's a bad time.
Fuck me, *that’s* why I’m so off this week! Happens nearly every month and every month I’m still like “why am I feeling so off? Am I sick? Did I overexert myself? What could be going on? What a mystery 🤔”
Hormonal fluctuations and ADHD are a wicked combination. I'm in meno now, but I was on an antidepressant, mood stabilizer, and a benzo for bipolar disorder, and they just quit working before my period. When I started taking oral birth control continuously my pmdd magically went away.
You should speak to your doctor about being assessed for PMDD. You will need to track your symptoms and cycle, though. PMDD will be monthly, same time right after ovulation - menstruation. PMDD is like PMS on crack. Suicidal thoughts, anxiety and/or panic attacks, extreme irritability, mood swings, depression, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. It's really scary.
I found out in my mid 20s that I had adenomyosis. On top of terrible PMDD, I'd get massive clots, cramps that made me puke regularly, I passed out once and came close to passing out many times, especially in my late teens and early 20s. My periods slowly went from 8 days long (when I was 12 and first got my periods) to 14 days long and when I finally found a doctor who listened to me rather than make a "pain journal' when I asked for a script for 800mg ibuprofen... It was life changing. And at 29 I got a hysterectomy but kept my ovaries. When I wiped the next morning after peeing and didn't see blood .. I wept on the toilet. I cried in relief, doubled over, shaking and sobbing because it was finally over forever.
I never wanted kids so the idea of hanging on to an organ that tortured me for half my life and would continue to for decades more was the worst kind of hopelessness.
I'm 43 now. Got over a decade of good years and now Peri is kicking my ass. But honestly if I hadn't yeeted my uterus, I'd be way worse off. I'd probably have bled to death already or offed myself. Lol
Edit to add- I still get PMDD but it's all the emotional stuff. I'll be super moody and weepy and be convinced that my meds aren't working anymore and what is wrong with me omg I'm crazy!!! And then two days later I'm fine and my husband shrugs his shoulders and says, "see baby? I told you it was that." I'm surprised every time. Lol.
Holi neuroscientist here, there have been quite some studies recently, [here’s a blog](https://www.absoluteadvocacy.org/dopamine-and-estrogen-a-surprising-relationship/amp/) that summarises a review from 2021 pretty well
Ps I also hate not being able to pee next to the road
Oh my uterus and ovaries? Fuck em. My vagina I like but those assholes can gtfo. Periods are the worst. I’ve found the same that my meds don’t work at certain times in my cycle. It’s very frustrating! And the pain from cramps put me in bed sometimes. But we are just supposed to suck it up. Ridiculous.
I'm sick of periods, they drain my mental health and energy like a vampire savoring thier victim over days or weeks.
They legit make me suicidal at times.
Fuck periods, yeast infections, endometriosis, and every thing else that comes with a uterus.
And instead of spending time and money on valuable research they do shit like "squirting is actually just pee!"
I had a doctor suggest I switch from an IUD to an oral pill to help more with acne and I was like “Dude this IUD is the only thing that I know is working 100% for me rn.” No periods for a decade, I only have to think about it once every seven years or so instead of remembering to take a pill the same time every day, getting refills, carrying my meds with me, etc. Absolutely no way you can pry this IUD from my cold dead uterus thanks
Which I could use one. But my uterus is so small that the hormonal IUD lead to Irritation in the tissue around the IUD ans hence horrible pain.
And oral pills worsen my ADHD symptoms so much. Like no energy left for anything, impuls control on emotions is not possible and my focus is just a joke. :/
\*googles\* One patch per week. I could do that! Weird that no doctor ever mentioned it. Maybe it's not part of the subsidized healthcare.
Either way, when I had a Nexplanon implant it gave me more trouble than it relieved, so it might not be worth it.
I have the arm implant and I LOVE it. My endometriosis was killing me and stopping my periods entirely is the only thing that has ever helped. I feel so much better not losing weeks of my life to the pain and exhaustion of periods!
And the hormons are not worsening your ADHD symptoms?
Besides this effect I also tend to get UTIs a lot on hormonal contraceptives that always require antibiotics (or else my kidneys get infested too) that lead to yeast infections because of effed up vaginal microbiome
I've been doing this with BC pills and it's a life saver
I typically only let one through twice a year, on recommendation from by doctor, but because I'm otherwise suppressing them I find the couple I do have for "maintenance" are far milder and easier to deal with
I've done the same. When I wake my break, I don't get anything. The only downside is that continuous oral BC does not stop me from getting PMS symptoms. I've been using this method for so long that it took me a while to notice the monthly pattern behind my poor mood regulation and depressive episodes 😂.
I can relate to this!
one time I decided to try taking a break from the pills because I have seen some discussion in ADHD spaces that some people experience more anxiety while taking them, and as an anxious person I started wondering if they were having a negative effect
boy, that break was SO bad for my mental health, I didn't realize how much the pills did for me, so I firmly went back on and will stay on them for my own sanity
they would ruin me, emotionally, mentally, and physically
I've been so much more stable since making the decision to look into skipping with oral contraceptives
there's not a lot of info on it and some doctors seem to not like the idea, but a female doctor finally agreed with me and just thought that I should let a period through at least every 6 months but other than that she felt it was fine to skip
I'm so sorry...this sounds like you have been through it. 😩
I make clothes so maybe I can help? What does the dress look like? What kind of bras do you currently own?
I genuinely complain about them constantly.
I FUCKING HATE MY PERIOD. I have gotten it every single month without fail since I was 12. I have a heavy period, bad cramps, and have always needed heavy-duty pads (I have not liked any form of birth control I’ve tried, so this is my lot in life.) Every woman in my family is like this, too.
I have a week before my period of being vaguely moody and absolutely ravenous. Then 5-7 days of bleeding, cramping, being exhausted, getting headaches. It’s so unfair. Worst part of being a woman for me.
Same! I get horrible periods and the mood swings start a week before and then a week long period. That's almost half of our lives!! 2 weeks a month dealing with this shit. 😭😭
As someone that has horrible endometriosis and worked as a research assistant studying female sexuality including a 3 year study on female ejaculation I appreciate your sentiment but it’s a bit misguided. There is VERY little research on female ejaculation; significantly less than research on endometriosis, which isn’t saying a lot. Trust me there isn’t any money being “wasted” on female ejaculation studies, which are also needed. The lack of research and funding for most female health problems is dismal across the board. We need research into ALL aspects of female health.
I’m not sure but I interpreted the comment you responded to not that money was “wasted” on researching female ejaculation, moreso that the only money spent was on some bullshit research that concluded “squirting is axshually pee” which is now the current consensus even tho the people whose bodies do it know better
u/justarmadillo5 was correct in their statement. Not that researching women's sexual health is a waste of money in general. Sexual health is vital research for all sexes.
As someone genuinely struggling with my body and ability to connect with my partner thank you for this. I'm switching meds yet again to deal with an almost non existent sex drive and I'm frustrated and confused
When is the last time you tried to talk to a doctor about how much your period messes you up? Asking because I have a friend who had pretty severe symptoms before/during their period for decades (like, all of their sick time went to dealing with their period, their cramps were so severe that they basically could not function or think very well, and OTC meds were very little help). Every time they asked a doctor about it, they were basically told to stop whining, and I know they second guessed themselves a lot about maybe their pain tolerance wasn't that high and they really just needed to get over themselves.
A couple years ago they found a doctor that actually *takes their pain seriously* and started working with them to find a medical solution. Now they still get cramps, but they can function through them like most of the rest of us. They're low-key furious at how long they were just allowed to suffer because doctors wouldn't listen to them, and so they stopped asking.
Anyway. It doesn't sound like you're talking about regular, common period symptoms, or regular, common ADHD+PMS symptoms. I'm definitely not a doctor. But if you have access to a doctor, I would consider bringing this up to them, especially if it's been a few years since you tried to figure out a solution.
Yes, I have brought it up with many doctors. I was finally told by an OB that ultimately, it is more common than people realize especially for those with depression. However we just don't know enough to have any actual answers.
Have you looked into PMDD? Suicidal thoughts on your period are not typical, and PMDD is a common comorbidity in ADHD women. I have PMDD and the suicidal thoughts have entirely vanished with the help of a very very low dose of Prozac (just 10mg, I had to go lower than the dose they started me on because I got a lot of side effects)
It hasn't solved all my period problems, but it has helped a lot with the most distressing emotional issues.
Working out, dieting and drinking enough water does take its toll on me but my vagina has never given me any issues and is very low maintenance. Have you seen a doctor to figure out why you keep getting reoccurring yeast infections?
yeah. i'll admit i go through bad bouts of depression not showering as much as i should, but its never caused any sort of infection. likely an underlying issue.
OP, it could be a number of issues. i suggest u invest in some cotton undies/thongs, since lace and other materials aren't breathable and that alone causes infections.
if you're washing ur undies and pants with scent beads or fabric softener, STOP. not only can scented products prompt infections/irritation, but they also leave film on clothes making them less breathable.
as for actual cleaning, unscented soap ONLY, cetaphil is my fav. and only wash the outer vulva/labia, u dont want any soap in ur actual vagina. on busy days or whenever you cant bring urself to fully shower, u can do a sink bath. my toilets right next to the sink, so i legit sit on the toilet and wash my bits with my hand on sweaty days or instances i dont have time to shower.
unscented baby wipes are also a god send! keep them by the toilet, and keep a pack in ur purse for when ur out and about. but whatever u do please DONT flush them, even if the packaging says its ok. they're full of crap, wipes absolutely destroy pipes, trash only
and just incase nobody every taught u, ensure ur always wiping from front to back as well. soon as a tissue touches ur back end, its trash, grab a new one, even if u didnt have a bowel movement.
boric acid suppositories are also awesome for all lady issues- uti's, bacterial infections, and yeast. think of it as a probiotic for ur cooter. if u frequently take antibiotics, they're especially helpful, because antibiotics kill *all* bacteria, even the good stuff.
I'm from Kentucky and it's common there, but rarely have I seen it anywhere else. For whatever reason, when I was a kid (in the 80s...eek), my parents decided cootie was somehow less vulgar than cooter lol. So you can imagine my horror when I got to kindergarten in Texas (we moved when I was 4) and people were talking about getting their cootie shots 🤣. This is the number one reason (among many) I'm glad people now teach their kids to call genitals by their proper names.
All good ideas,
Another good brand of body wash is Lumē which helps to balance your Ph levels of your skin it also contains mandelic acid. In my opinion it works the best.
Also, invest in a bidet, it keeps all your bits clean and you will spend less annually on TP.
Lastly, try to keep your diet clean.
Lumē is a godsend!! My immune system is super dysfunctional (autoimmunity + some deficiencies). My immunologist (and PCP before) prescribe me prescription topical anti-fungal cream which helps a ton with the itching + stopping an infection before it gets so bad that it takes multiple days
Another thing worth contemplating if you don’t mind hormonal birth control…. Skipping periods…
It has been a huge bonus to not have a period anymore. While my 2nd IUD didn’t cause my menses to stop like the first one, we just added a tiny oral mini pill and it just makes my life so much easier! No messy blood stains, no surprise spotting, no longer having to worry about tampons/menstrual discs or pre/post cycle yeast infections.
I agree with all of this aside from the boric acid! I read a comment on here praising it so I decided to try it for myself and it made me bleed for 3 weeks 😔
thats a super rare reaction, im sorry that happened to you but boric acids definitely worth a shot for most people. spotting is rare but can happen, but it isn't dangerous more so just annoying. i never used them more than 3x a week with symptoms, aside from that i only use them once in a while for a little refresh
I want to second boric acid suppositories! Very good at keeping things up to code, especially
If you’re in a “am I having an issue or just imagining things.” Might want to avoid penetration for a day or two though. Add some
coconut oil for soothing if you find the boric acid a little harsh
Edit: people say be wary of coconut oil so your mileage may vary! On one hand it’s anti fungal/anti microbial, on the other hand it can throw off the ph balance of the system which would lead to more infections.
If someone is having vaginal issues, coconut oil and boric acid is NOT going to help. She needs a doctor. Can’t believe people are giving medical advice here.
obviously medical care should be first route. but all of these things listed can cause frequent infections and are easy to overlook. doctors can't always find the cause aside from a dx, and its better to stop it at the root vs constantly taking antibiotics/monistat etc. at one point i was having frequent irritation and inflammation, come to find out it was because i accidentally bought scented TP. immediately stopped when i discontinued use. if its not an std/sti, its caused by an environment factor
although i agree, absolutely do not put coconut oil on, in, or around the vulva. that would only exacerbate symptoms; its not sterile, and moisture is horrible for vaginal health- breeding ground for bacteria.
i found out about boric acid from my gynecologist back in 2017. she made sure to say that recommendation was off the record but she and i both got tired of the monthly appointments. i haven’t had an issue since.
OP, not sure how old you are – but I had a string of yeast infections when I was 22, 23. After my third time at the doctor, I basically asked “why me?” I wasn’t doing any of the things that I thought were gonna give me a yeast infection. For example I am a cotton underwear girly always and I rarely change soaps. Then my doctor told me that they actually don’t really know why so many young women get yeast infections but they do know that there are risk factors and they include wearing tight clothing, multiple partners, high levels of alcohol and sugar and stress. At that point in my life, those factors could’ve defined me.
Also, if you’re using any topical antibiotics, make sure that you wash your hands to prevent any antibiotics reaching regions that they shouldn’t be if you catch my drift.
Now that you mention it, I take it back, my vagina is high maintenance because it's barking for attention on the daily. Health wise though, very low maintenance.
^seconding talking to a doc! An OBGYN I used to work with also had these tips:
-Wash only with water, only wash the vulva (the exterior part of the vagina). If you wash too much, the normal bacteria/yeasts can get wiped out and that allows the disease/problem-causing bacteria and yeasts to take over.
- (aside from during your period) Sleep with as much vag-ventilation as possible-- ideally nude, but could also use loose cotton boxers/shorts
I've been wondering this for years. I was with a guy for 7 years and I kept getting unexplained yeast infections and then whenever we broke up the yeast infections stopped. Now I've been with my current husband going on five years and I've had maybe one infection in five years(?) I always wondered if it was an issue with the ex (not sure if it's related but sex also always hurt with the ex and never hurts with the current husband).
Ah, thanks, just curiosity on my part.
Men do carry yeast and can carry the BV bacteria. With women we're tested with a vaginal swab, which men can't use. I guess I'll look up treatment options for men. 😸👍
It’s unreal how much of a pain in the ass it is to get a doc to even test them. I had yeast infection after yeast infection for years and they always blamed me.
Guess who it was.
I hate this for you. And all of us.
I hate how most medical research is done on men, and yet when it comes to sex stuff, so often it's the woman who has the burden in the actual medical system.
Birth control - there's the pill, arm implants, vag implants, all kinds of things for women. Where's the pill for men huh?! (I did just hear of some kind of topically applied male bc that's new, but I guess they don't think men will 'adopt the product' because of fears about how it will affect them...)
Fertility issues - maybe this is just my perception, but it seems so often women are like 'let's both get checked' and men are like 'no, I don't want to! My swimmers ARE JUST FINE!'
Yeast infections - oh, it's the woman's fault, of course. Of course of course.
I'm just talking out of my ass. But I think this shit is real! Sexism when it comes to sexual medical issues, I guess? Or is it just that a lot of men prefer to deny reality when it comes to their dicks, which puts the burden on women? Ugh.
It is real. There are many studies. Was even taught in my doctorate of physical therapy courses. But then students go to clinicals to learn from practicing providers and the bullshit just gets carried on.
My aunt who endured torture for 10 years for infertility before the doctor checked her husband’s sperm count. Guess who was the issue.
A patient who gave permission for me to tell this story. First child. Doc did an episiotomy despite the fact they’ve been proven more harmful than helpful. Then gave her a husband stitch. She couldn’t tolerate sex. Told her she should have sex anyway, she was being hysterical and her husband would leave her if she didn’t. (Looking at you, Guthrie Healthcare, Horseheads NY for this stellar OB).
The women who aren’t told that pelvic floor muscles can be helped without surgery or meds in a lot of cases, for pain, weakness, you name it.
Literally hundreds of stories from patients about their MDs that I can’t tell you and I’ve only been practicing 10 years.
It makes me ill. I try to push back and educate but MD beats DPT.
I’m sorry friend. My big ones are binge eating and brushing my teeth…. My teeth are just awful and I’m terrified of getting them fixed. Both the process and the cost just make me wanna curl into myself and poof out of existence.
It’s ok to be overwhelmed and emotional, it’s ok to get fkin pissed and/or cry about it. I really try to work towards better, it’s not a binary or black/white. It’s a struggle to be kind, but that’s my road.
Much love to you. Please keep trying, you’re honestly doing great. Plus you deserve to be on good terms with your vagina, keep pushing until you get a resolution 💛
Yes it does. I'm so very self conscious about body odor. I do all I can. I have unnecessary shower products and I'm always worried if I'm "smelly."
Now with my iud I noticed I do have a slight odor. I hate it and I wonder if my man can smell it too. That and I'm very sensitive and will get infections if I'm not ultra on top of showering after sex and cleaning the area thoroughly.
Tmi : but I also have ibs and worry about stains and making sure that area is always super cleaned. It's stressful and I hate it. Makes physical intimacy a chore. I have to eat around whether I'm getting some that night. So no foods that can trigger a flare. 😭
When I first got an IUD, I started getting recurring bacterial vaginosis after having sex. Basically bacteria introduced by your partner’s fingers/penis/sperm can cling to the IUD strings. The best way to clear it up is with boric acid suppositories.
Don’t forget that men can be stinky and gross and they tend to have more tolerance than we do for certain things! My boyfriend loves it when he can smell my sweat for example, he says it’s more primal and animalistic, a pheromones thing 🤷🏼♀️ I get grossed out if I’ve got sweaty pits but he really does go wild for my “lady musk” as he puts it lol. I’m sure your man thinks you’re lovely!
Oh my gosh that makes sense. I never thought about the strings!!! I may get those suppositories. Definitely would help when I'm being thrown off. I hate vaginally creams. They burn so bad.
All of this for me too. I did take a birth control once that made me stink down there and my boyfriend kept lying to me about it but he stopped having sex with me and then broke up with me and while we were fighting he told me it WAS stinky. Anyway, don’t date musicians kids.
I used to get recurrent yeast infections, now instead of waiting to confirm it’s a full blown infection I use boric acid suppositories at the first sign of discomfort, or what I like to call “sad pussy”. I also stopped having sex with cis men, which greatly reduced the frequency, but that may or may not be an option available to you.
Seconding this - see if you can order the powder and capsules separately and make your own. Better than suppositories with extra ingredients anyway. This was a game changer for me. Hang in there, I know it sucks!
I had a lot of trouble too with a prior partner- are they cleaning their hands and other body parts c well before sexy time? I’ve had two partners since ands zero issues ., but we also shower almost always before.
Yes and we always shower before and after, we are not even that active bc we don’t live that close and have busy routines. I’ve been to several appointments with doctors but nothing has helped much, just the standard procedure with fluconazole and ointments
I feel overwhelmed by my vagina in a way where my rights (bc I have a vagina) are slowly being taken away (in the US) and I’m scared. PS have you tried taking probiotics? Might help!
Here in Brazil we never had the right to have an abortion (unless it’s from a rape and it’s on the firsts weeks) now even that is being taken away from us, since the disgusting conservative side wants to punish women who abort after 22 weeks (sexual violence case) with more years in prision than the rapist itself! So yeah, I feel you
That’s so fucked. The world is so fucked. And pardon my continued use of fuck, but FUCK. I’m sorry. That has to be so scary. I definitely took my rights for granted before they started being taken away.
I agree with all of this, especially the use of fuck because what else can you say when you look around the shitshow of a planet where you’re just a meaty incubator? At least that’s how I feel. I don’t blame any gal for just getting it removed. Do it now before you lose that right too.
If everything is normal, your vagina shouldn't be bothering you (except during your period). It really only acts up when something is wrong.
I recommend seeing a gynaecologist to get to the bottom of it.
If you're not concerned with having kids right now, ask them for birth control that takes your period away.
It might sound weird but genuinely it’s a good idea to go to the doctor and make sure your blood sugar is within healthy range.
Ladies can also contract BV and be given it multiple times if you have or have had a partner who has it without any symptoms—it happens more than one might think. Get a pap done for an STI panel even though it will likely be negative—it’s just a helpful tool to rule it out.
I didn’t have anyone to teach me because my mom passed when I was young, but there’s also a *proper direction to wipe* that I didn’t know about until I was an adult. Go from front to back.
Ooh! Another random thought. If you happen to use any kind of sex toys, there is special cleaner for them that is safe for type of product they’re made to clean and also less likely to irritate the lady bits than say dish soap residue might.
Also, avoiding soap in the vagina is a good idea; it can irritate and cause imbalance to its typical pH. You can get one of those shower heads with a handle and hose extension so you can really rinse everything front to back with adjustable flow. Hope this helps, even if only one of the aspects of hop-ha care discussed is something pertinent to anyone’s situation.
After years of hesitation because I didn't want to mess with my hormones, I finally asked a doctor about a hormonal IUD. He suggested the Kyleena because it's a lower dose of hormones than some of the others, but just as effective. (IUDs already have a lower dose of hormones than other forms of hormonal birth control because they're right in your uterus, and don't need to go through your intestinal tract, bloodstream, etc.)
It's been amazing. My periods got lighter immediately, and about a year later, they'd completely disappeared. After 4 years, I started getting light spotting around the time of my period, because the amount of hormones is starting to get reduced, since I'm nearing the time to replace the IUD. (My doctor assured me that it's effectiveness for birth control is not reduced.)
Prior to this, I had the copper IUD twice. So I'm no stranger to the insertion and removal. The insertion hurts, there's no getting around it, it feels like you're getting punched in the uterus. But it doesn't hurt for long, it's a moment of pain and then discomfort afterwards but tolerable. I drove myself home just fine after my last 2 insertions.
The benefits are incredible! It's so amazing to have reduced or eliminated periods! I'll never go back to non-hormonal birth control again unless absolutely necessary!!!
I recommend IUDs to anyone that complains about periods. I have the Kyleena, too. I've had an IUD for six years now. When I got it changed out last year, I bled for 1-2 days afterwards and it was TERRIBLE. I hated dealing with all the blood. It reminded me why I'll always have an IUD.
I think a lot of people are scared of IUDs because of the few horror stories. But the horror stories are always the ones you hear, you rarely hear people say "I've never had an issue with my IUD" because there's no reason to talk about it?? It's just... There.
Anyways, I highly recommend getting an IUD to anyone reading this!!! You will love how easy it is!
Yup, that's just it! You hear the horror stories because that's what people talk about, but 99% of folks have no issues and just quietly go about their lives not talking about it.
I was such a heavy bleeder in my teens and twenties and I only wish I'd gotten this kind of IUD sooner!!!
I certainly wouldn't chose vagina again if I had the choice 😂 I have struggled with extremely painful periods since my early 20s. They're so bad I've thought about surgery.. My mom had a hysterectomy at a young age for the same reason. Periods suck so much, tampons and pads suck, landscaping sucks, UTI’s suck, PAP smears suuuuck, constant fluctuating hormones that literally affect your brain function suck. Im currently 6mo pregnant and I'm learning what is about to happen to my body thinking “men are so fking lucky, they have no idea what we deal with”. 😂
Boric acid capsules have been a life saver for me. I’ve accepted that I just have a “delicate pH balance”, and it’s so much easier to pop a capsule up there if I start to feel things getting out of whack. Also, have to be very stringent about hand washing if anyone’s going exploring.
OP- I used to get recurring yeast infections due to no real cause that I could tell. Never had one til I was almost 30 and then suddenly I was getting them like every other month. Super frustrating. I added a women’s probiotic supplement to my morning vitamins and haven’t had one since - it’s been years at this point. Might be worth a try!
I had the same issues with my vagina for awhile. Constant yeast infections for no reason. What helped me was a course of boric acid supplements and probiotics. I have only had one yeast infection since and it was because I was on harsh antibiotics for 2 weeks.
I would make an appt with a doctor (a GOOD ONE) to get to the bottom of the infections. I know for myself, I cant wear any kind of spanx/excersise clothing as undies because the bacteria will just bloom. My favorite undies are the microfiber ones, but I know those can give some women yeast infections too. Some women swear only to cotten undies. Maybe try out different undies fabric types?
Untill you find an end to it tho, may your monistat be cheap and plentiful =')
I have chronic UTI’s, Ive been getting them constantly since I was 6 and I’m almost 20 now 😭 although it’s not the same as a yeast infection I still understand your struggles and anxiety’s, I try so hard to make sure I don’t get one and follow a lot of steps and precautions but it still happens 💔 you aren’t alone
Just in case… Make sure you aren’t using those “intimate washes.” I had recurring yeast infections for years until I learned those often cause them. Stopped using them and I haven’t had one since!
The Flow app taught me a lot about discharge and what’s normal and what’s not. And changing my diet changed my discharge a lot. Mainly going gluten free and mostly dairy free. Maybe see if things change based on an elimination diet and see if that helps.
Things that have been game-changers (as somebody who used to previously suffer from yeast infections a lot:
1. Cotton panties 80%+ of the time
2. Reducing hot bubble baths
3. Boric acid suppositories
4. Coconut oil suppositories
5. Drinking water (lol)
I don't use suppositories a LOT but if I start to feel yucky or itchy (OP I'm sure you know what that's like) then I use one and that prevents. I mainly use coconut oil in a preventative way and boric acid in a curative way.
I used to get yeast infections a lot because the women in my family insisted that you wash your actual vagina with soap and not just your vulva, suds up in there were a nightmare!
I’m still prone to UTI’s though, I have a small bladder and don’t notice when I’m hyper focusing, can’t remember to do anything without a reminder
Pee after sex and after washing. Immediately and always. This means pee in the shower since that's where you wash but after sex, get up and go to the toilet, don't pee the bed.
If possible it might be worth getting the thrush checked - I kept getting thrush but then the doctor found out the strain of yeast was resistant to the over the counter/common treatment so I was put on antibiotics and it finally cleared it up!!! Used to get them sooooo easily and frequently (think the yeast was just permanently living in the depths of me!). Now I don't remember the last time I had it!
I know you're all American but as someone from Europe please do not use boric acid in or near your vagina 🤦♀️ especially if you want to have kids in the future, not only can it cause irritation, discomfort, & chemical burns but it's a reprotoxic and can seriously damage your fertility
Oh my Goodness YES😭😭😭 im currently on month FOUR of a yeast infection that won't go away and have seen two specialists already. I wash frequently but always have the same questions as you "is this normal?" It's exhausting ffs and i haven't even been able to touch MYSELF in four months 🙃😭
Would rather not be punished each month by my reproductive system but since I aaaaam, these things have helped:
- Period panties. No worry about forgotten tampons or an extra monthly expense, just wash and re-use. They ain’t cute but they get the job done.
- Bidet. Can be installed at home and gives my little lady an extra rinse. Takes getting used to but worth it.
- Pee after sex. Always. Even if you recently did, pee again.
- Hydrate and drain. I used to be UTI prone. If I feel one coming I drink lots of water and sit on the toilet and just drain as much as pee as I can for as long as I can, just a little bit every minute or so. Getting the bacteria out early prevents it from worsening or turning into an infection.
I had a kidney infection over a decade ago and so I am a bit more vigilant about taking care of things down there than I was before.
I’ve never had a yeast infection, but I’m very tired of periods. I’m done having kids, due to the wreckage the two I have made of my vagina/uterus (plus the obvious financial obstacles) so why can’t I be done with this shit?
I don’t think I’ve ever had yeast but I have chronic recurring UTIs and it honestly to god makes me want to die. It disrupts my sleep so badly and I already have insomnia, and I think it makes my vaginismus worse because I now have anxiety that sex will give me another UTI.
I also have endometriosis and I would gladly never have another period in my life but premature menopause sounds just as, if not more disruptive.
Don’t get me started on pregnancy scares. I never, ever want to be pregnant. I don’t ever intend to use any of these accursed organs, they just cause problems. At least the appendix potentially has some kind of purpose in maintaining the gut microbiome or something. Uterus? Useless.
I fucking hate my body, I never asked for any of this.
100%. More days than not a resent having to use and take care of my meat suit. I have more issues with caring for my chest than my vagina but I dislike caring for both. I'm sure a good part of it is gender dysphoria for me personally, but I also relate to you as a person with adhd, absolutely.
My chest is large and also prone to yeast infections. It's the absolute worst, especially in the summer time. Even when I'm 100% on top of applying all the products and hygiene that my doctor(s) give me, it still itches and I fucking hate it. Last summer I had a particularly bad yeast infection and I called out of work for two days and at one point I was so discouraged, overstimulated, and dysphoric that I just laid face-down straight on to the carpet and just cried for like 20 minutes. My partner came home and helped me cool down but yeah, some days I hate having a body.
This sucks. I'm sorry you experience this.
I used to get yeast infections under my boobs and under my apron belly. What solved it for me was using a coarse ground rice flour. It needs to still feel gritty. I think the exfoliation is what helped.
Oh thank you!
I did finally find something that helps a little - salicylic acid serum. It's supposed to be for your face (which I also use it for), but it's literally the only thing that both stopped new yeast/acne from forming and actually cleared up the scarring black spots! I will also remember the rice flour for days when it's super hot or muggy.
I have a double prolapse which is exhausting. It just gets in the way of EVERYTHING. I have to think about how I move, lift, exercise, poop. I am sick of having to dedicate precious mental resources to things that shouldn't even need a second thought.
Do you have regular unprotected PiV sex? It’s turned out through recent studies a lot of women/people who suffer with yeast and uti’s who were constantly told to fix their diet/weight/underwear etc were just having sex with partners who don’t wash enough
Only when I have a man as a sexual partner do I have any issues with my vagina lol. Otherwise I have found having one to be fairly maintenance free!
Every once in a while a bubble bath with upset my ph but usually the culprit is a dick.
I wish I could tell you it gets better, but there's something with every age...I'm going through peri now and just had my first bout of "vulvitis." What the hell?! I'd never even HEARD of that! I thought maybe I had a yeast infection (never had one before), but apparently taking too long to cool down after a workout in this hot, humid weather brought it on. When I pointed out to the OBGYN that I'd never had this happen before, she said the drop in estrogen makes things more sensitive down there. Great. 😬
My solution to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis: ditch any kind of soap or cleanser on your labia. Even ones that say they are pH balanced are too harsh for the delicate biome down there. Give her a rinse every day and you’ll be fine.
Don’t do anything to it and you should be fine, sounds like you’re using products thinking you’re taking care of your hygiene but it should be left alone. Its self cleaning already
Take this with a grain of salt as I know virtually nothing personally about this, but I used to work at a holistic doctor’s office and they would sometimes recommend the Candida diet if someone was having issues with yeast (plus other things I’m sure). My coworker had done it like 3 times and swore by it. Drastically reduced her gut symptoms and her yeast infections. I don’t do diets because I’m already an intensely picky eater, but figured it was something worth mentioning.
Candida diet is super restrictive and should ideally be monitored by a doctor if you do it long enough. Also it's likely not quite addressing the issue here...
I used to get yeast infections a LOT. Not so much post menopause . But I definitely learned how to get rid of them fast.
White vinegar, a teaspoon of it, in a douche. Twice a day. This acidifies the vagina and yeast doesn't like it.
You can also put plain yogurt in douche water, it will help rebalance as the lactobaccilus fights the yeast and replenishes your probiotics.
Douches are not forever, just until the yeast symptoms abate. Normally you do not want anything in the vagina that wasn't designed to be (like a baby or a sex partner's parts).
And this one is weird, but it WORKS fast, I had to do this in desperation when I was in China where there were zero medications available: a drop or two of regular Listerine mouthwash on a tampon, leave it in overnight and that infection will be GONE. Listerine contains Thymol which is an antifungal. No harmful effects.
Hey! I have chronic candidiasis/yeast infections. I had one that took me almost three years to treat bc the yeast was immune to all treatments.
The way to go here is taking all of the carbs out of your diet, and the only thing that really helped me was Boric Acid suppositories, once a day before sleeping for a week and then once a week. Probiotic suppositories also help in this treatment (twice a week)
It is not easy having ADHD and following these treatments. But trust me, you won't need to use wipes, special soaps, anything. Your vagina will clean itself with a balanced Ph
Edit: Yeast feeds itself with sugars. The diet thing could be crucial, but I know it is not easy to take carbs and sugar out of the diet. Also, remember, antibiotics could be causing your yeast infection, too. It's been two years since I got rid of my yeast infection, but I fear the day it comes back. I hope you get better soon
Really. I am out of yeast problems for almost 9 years. I suffered for 8 years of yeast infections before. Anti-yeasts creams from my Obgyn helped always only temporarily.
Whenever my girl starts smell bad (but it really didn't happen in a long time) I start eating pumpkin seeds. It doesn't have to be much (for me). 20 grams daily are enough. After 2 - 4 days of eating them I am healthy. It helps me even with bacterial infections.
I don't like their taste much but in our grocery store I discovered pumpkin seeds who are salted and roasted. This tastes good and works on my vaginal infections too.
In regard to hygiene, you should get a portable bidet to put beside your toilet, and use it after every toilet use. It will help sm in regard to cleaning your period blood.
Dude its so tiring. I get a uti so fast and i‘m taking all these supplements but i also think my adhd meds emphasizes the uncomfortable feeling.
Having a long ass period that lasts up to 7 days straight is exhausting, the up and down of the hormones and the effect it has on my adhd😭
Dont get me started with bacterial infections 🫠🫠🫠
I relate to this completely. ****Do you wear tampons? It took months for me to realize they were causing all my issues, and I was devastated. I hated wearing pads (im in menopause now). Nothing like feeling like a baby in a diaper than slapping a pad in your underwear.
Get tested for Trichomoniasis. Where I am, it is not a standard STD test, you have to ask for it specifically. It can mimic the symptoms of BV or yeast infections. Also take D-Mannose as a supplement after sex. It helps reduce your chances of getting UTI’s from sex. I’m so sorry you have to deal with this. It can be very frustrating. Hope you get some answers.
PSA!!!
For ANY yeast, smell, pH change after sex, irritating discharge, BV:
BORIC ACID SUPPOSITORIES, and a Vaginal Pre/probiotic
(never need more than three days BA, and the other I use only when a “full reset” is necessary)
For UTI’s D-Mannose works every time fast. It is a sugar that binds to the harmful bacteria and flushes it out.
These are the easiest, fastest, most effective methods I have ever used- and I’ve run the gambit of antifungals, antibiotics (caused the yeast in the first place), home remedies (up to and including putting garlic up my vag for a serious and persistent candida infection caused by antibiotics that didn’t respond to anything else)
I’ve read too many hours of threads to count from nurses, OBGYN’s, certified herbalists, and people like me trying to figure out their vagina and comparing notes on what works
This is the most practical, effective, and inexpensive and least harmful way to deal with all of these issues. I am yelling because I wish I knew sooo long ago. I never go without these in my cabinet now though rarely need to use them. This is after going a year and a half straight with yeast and bv. Hoping to save some lives here!
Coconut oil is amazing. antibacterial, works as lube and moisturizer for irritation and it has a bit of a coconutsmell but I agree with everyone else talk to your doctor that sucks :( and change ur undies in the morning and at night and after a shower and sometimes I finding don't have it in me to do a full shower with washing my hair just do a body shower or even lower body shower every otherday or as needed! And cotten underwear !!! No leggings and maybe sleep in boxer briefs for ventilation ? Those are my ideas I hate always having to shave and wash my hair and take care of it and exercise is hard hahahahah
I have to say men is pretty low maintenance, you should really see a doctor or Gynae about this, and don’t let them gaslight you, keep searching until you get answers because that’s no way to live mate.
Regular yeast infections can be a symptom of diabetes. Some pharmacies will test you for free. I would get it checked out, even if just to rule it out.
I am quite shit at taking care of myself, but I've never had any problems with yeast infections or anything of the sort. Worst I've ever dealt with is allergic reactions to certain fabrics used in underwear and the occasional ingrown hair (mind you, I am asexual and I don't have sex, so I'm also lower risk for these kinds of health issues). Talk to your doctor. Also get your guy checked out, they can carry yeast and BV, his shitty hygiene could be causing problems for you.
Now my dental hygiene? That's a dumpster fire.
Hey bb I have heard of this Apple Cider Soap that is used for fussy vajayjays like yours....I've used it too, by Say it Scents. I think it's called the Girly Bar. The creator sweara by it because she constantly gets BV without it and apparently a lot of people like it. I like it too but never has these issues so I can't swear by it. I hope you can get it under control!!!
ALSO AZO makes a probiotic for women's down unders. ;) I think it can help keep the bacteria all balanced out.
Right there with you. I'm one year out from basically a c-section to remove fibroids (largest was the size of a newborns head). The years leading up to it were long, exhausting, and terrible.
Having a vagina is sooo hard lol. I mean, mine is pretty cute so ill keep him, but still. I went through a phase of seemingly always having a yeast infection and eventually my pussy just calmed down lol. It defs happened more when i was on and off antibiotics a lot, so maybe you are taking a medication that is throwing you off? Also cotton panties. Polyester etc will always set me off. And bubble bath etc. Idk why but my pussy is more resilient these days.
But anyway i havent seen anyone on this thread mention it so--APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (with the "mother" for proper probiotics). And i dont meant drinking it (bad for your teeth). I would put a bit in a bath, or i would wet a paper towel with water first to dilute than cover it in apple cider vinegar and just sorta...lay it over my pussy for a bit. It can feel intense and weird but theres also a tangible cooling/relief. Tbh was the most effective treatment i tried.
Put some non flavored (this is important) Greek yogurt on a tampon and yeet it up your vagine and it can help with the yeast infection. The boric acid suppositories also help.
Ever since my uterus declared that it didn’t like the conditions and flounced off with my cervix, it’s been very low key down there. Good luck!
As a currently pregnant person who does not enjoy being pregnant at all, I am deeply deeply jealous of my husband. I also get recurring UTIs. So annoying. Men’s bodies are so low maintenance, they’d don’t know how lucky they are. 🙄
You are right! When I was a child and learned what periods were I cried because I was mad I had to deal with it. Staying on top of the hygiene is a pain, changing pads/tampons is a pain. Sometimes I struggle to get in the shower but my period forces me because I’ve leaked or I just smell.
I just found out I’m pregnant and now my vagina is doing even weirder things. I’m not looking forward to the extra care and attention I have to give to my body now.
That many yeast infections is not normal though. I really recommend going to a doctor. I’ve found that yeast infections are caused by such random things. For example, if you take any antibiotic there’s a high chance you’ll get a yeast infection. There could be something going on that’s causing the frequent irritation. Is best to get to the bottom of it so you can have a better quality of life.
A few tips I’ve been given to keep infections away:
-Cotton underwear
-Wash clothes with free and gentle detergent
-Use dove gentle soap bars (not the shower gel)
-nothing with scents or dyes should be used to clean the area
-you don’t really need to douche
-if it wasn’t designed to be put inside of you, don’t put it inside of you.
As for the periods, mine have gotten much lighter and easier to manage since I got an IUD.
I get to have my cervix cauterized in a few weeks to prevent my abnormal cells from marching closer to cancer. It's going to increase my chances of miscarriage. I won't be able to take a bath, one of my only comforts when I'm stressed or in pain, for 2 months after the procedure. I'm less than pleased about this whole situation.
Get your pap smears, ladies. While this shit sucks it's better than cancer.
Quick question? How old are you?
I had many more issues in my teens then in my twenties, at least when it comes to yeast and bladder infections.
Im not sure what im doing different. I did go vegetarian at some point and I moved to europe but no other major changes. Same type of clothes and period products, same wiping style etc.
So maybe becoming older, moving to europe or quiting meat will help you. I highly doubt it but hey maybe there is hope.
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All of those are true, and they suck. I also find that my meds don't work well for a few days before my period. There's practically zero studies done on that, but it seems to be a pretty common thing. And that's not even including the whole pregnancy debacle. I also hate not being able to piss easily by the side of the road.... But now I'm getting hella of topic
"I also hate not being able to piss easily by the side of the road." This. I work as a postman and everyday I am envious of men who can piss easily almost everywhere.
I'm an avid camper and love to backpack. Being a female on the trail is so f-ing hard!! Men just wee where ever they want and don't have to deal with pissing on their pants or ankles or period blood or tampons or anything. You have to pack out your trash.. Which includes period products and they'll attract animals so you have to have a special canister to keep your bloody stuff sealed and away from your tent. Its disgusting and embarrassing. As soon as I have my baby I'm getting my uterine lining lazered out. I'm done with this shit. Sorry for the rant, you just unlocked something 😂😂😂
Paper plate. Rolled into a snowcone shape. You’re welcome =)
So.... This might sound gross but they make female urinals. Even disposable ones now. The Amazon delivery drivers I know say they're a godsend. Pee in the truck, use a wet wipe, move on with your shift. Their trucks aren't air conditioned so they drink a massive amount of water during the summer.
Amazon branded trucks with no AC? Wow. Is this for legitimate reason, like the door being opened constantly would ruin the system or because a multibillion dollar company is saving a dollar at the expense of employee health?
I'm not 100% sure, I'd never thought to question it. I imagine since Amazon contracts out that it's up to whoever is running the facility. One of my girlfriends is diabetic t1 so she goes through a shit ton of water. She buys these female urinals that have like, that diaper material in them to absorb it, and throws them out at the end of her shift so she doesn't get docked for stopping too often for the bathroom.
Being docked for having to stop too much at the bathroom. 😮😬 That’s a serious employer violation when it involves a health condition.
Have you tried a shewee? They might help.
I tried it once camping. Ended up just pissing all over myself. Maybe tmi, but I couldn't get a good seal with it and it just leaked all over.
That sucks, I'm sorry it didn't work for you.
Thank you. I didn't know it. Looks interesting.
my pms is so bad I even get suic1d4l sometimes, it’s crazy!
You probably have PMDD. Talk to your dr, Prozac is supposed to help. (Unfortunately Prozac doesn't mix well with all my mental illness. 🙄) PMDD is very commonly comorbid in women with ADHD. I have an IUD and don't actually get a period, but every month I have a week of insane mood swings, irritability, and thoughts of offing myself. Plus my ADHD meds stop working, so yeah, it's a bad time.
I second this! I get into really low moods and become an inconsolable crying mess until I get my period. I am currently taking Venlafaxine for PTSD but it is also used for depression, PMDD, and other mental health conditions. This is the first period I have had where I am not a complete mess. Talk to your doctor about PMDD. Maybe they can help you find something that will help
> Plus my ADHD meds stop working, so yeah, it's a bad time. Fuck me, *that’s* why I’m so off this week! Happens nearly every month and every month I’m still like “why am I feeling so off? Am I sick? Did I overexert myself? What could be going on? What a mystery 🤔”
Hormonal fluctuations and ADHD are a wicked combination. I'm in meno now, but I was on an antidepressant, mood stabilizer, and a benzo for bipolar disorder, and they just quit working before my period. When I started taking oral birth control continuously my pmdd magically went away.
You should speak to your doctor about being assessed for PMDD. You will need to track your symptoms and cycle, though. PMDD will be monthly, same time right after ovulation - menstruation. PMDD is like PMS on crack. Suicidal thoughts, anxiety and/or panic attacks, extreme irritability, mood swings, depression, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. It's really scary.
I found out in my mid 20s that I had adenomyosis. On top of terrible PMDD, I'd get massive clots, cramps that made me puke regularly, I passed out once and came close to passing out many times, especially in my late teens and early 20s. My periods slowly went from 8 days long (when I was 12 and first got my periods) to 14 days long and when I finally found a doctor who listened to me rather than make a "pain journal' when I asked for a script for 800mg ibuprofen... It was life changing. And at 29 I got a hysterectomy but kept my ovaries. When I wiped the next morning after peeing and didn't see blood .. I wept on the toilet. I cried in relief, doubled over, shaking and sobbing because it was finally over forever. I never wanted kids so the idea of hanging on to an organ that tortured me for half my life and would continue to for decades more was the worst kind of hopelessness. I'm 43 now. Got over a decade of good years and now Peri is kicking my ass. But honestly if I hadn't yeeted my uterus, I'd be way worse off. I'd probably have bled to death already or offed myself. Lol Edit to add- I still get PMDD but it's all the emotional stuff. I'll be super moody and weepy and be convinced that my meds aren't working anymore and what is wrong with me omg I'm crazy!!! And then two days later I'm fine and my husband shrugs his shoulders and says, "see baby? I told you it was that." I'm surprised every time. Lol.
Holi neuroscientist here, there have been quite some studies recently, [here’s a blog](https://www.absoluteadvocacy.org/dopamine-and-estrogen-a-surprising-relationship/amp/) that summarises a review from 2021 pretty well Ps I also hate not being able to pee next to the road
I've definitely heard that stimulants don't work as well during certain times in our cycle so I'm hopeful more research is being done on this.
Oh my uterus and ovaries? Fuck em. My vagina I like but those assholes can gtfo. Periods are the worst. I’ve found the same that my meds don’t work at certain times in my cycle. It’s very frustrating! And the pain from cramps put me in bed sometimes. But we are just supposed to suck it up. Ridiculous.
I'm sick of periods, they drain my mental health and energy like a vampire savoring thier victim over days or weeks. They legit make me suicidal at times. Fuck periods, yeast infections, endometriosis, and every thing else that comes with a uterus. And instead of spending time and money on valuable research they do shit like "squirting is actually just pee!"
I legit got an iud because I didn’t want periods anymore. Haven’t had one in six years.
I had a doctor suggest I switch from an IUD to an oral pill to help more with acne and I was like “Dude this IUD is the only thing that I know is working 100% for me rn.” No periods for a decade, I only have to think about it once every seven years or so instead of remembering to take a pill the same time every day, getting refills, carrying my meds with me, etc. Absolutely no way you can pry this IUD from my cold dead uterus thanks
Which I could use one. But my uterus is so small that the hormonal IUD lead to Irritation in the tissue around the IUD ans hence horrible pain. And oral pills worsen my ADHD symptoms so much. Like no energy left for anything, impuls control on emotions is not possible and my focus is just a joke. :/
I don't get how oral pills would even work for me. I can't be trusted to take anything once a day every single day. XD
That is why I have timers in my Smartphone to remind me of taking my medication.
There are patches!
\*googles\* One patch per week. I could do that! Weird that no doctor ever mentioned it. Maybe it's not part of the subsidized healthcare. Either way, when I had a Nexplanon implant it gave me more trouble than it relieved, so it might not be worth it.
I have the arm implant and I LOVE it. My endometriosis was killing me and stopping my periods entirely is the only thing that has ever helped. I feel so much better not losing weeks of my life to the pain and exhaustion of periods!
And the hormons are not worsening your ADHD symptoms? Besides this effect I also tend to get UTIs a lot on hormonal contraceptives that always require antibiotics (or else my kidneys get infested too) that lead to yeast infections because of effed up vaginal microbiome
My Dr. Prescribed skipping my periods on oral BC. F'ing game changer.
I've been doing this with BC pills and it's a life saver I typically only let one through twice a year, on recommendation from by doctor, but because I'm otherwise suppressing them I find the couple I do have for "maintenance" are far milder and easier to deal with
I've done the same. When I wake my break, I don't get anything. The only downside is that continuous oral BC does not stop me from getting PMS symptoms. I've been using this method for so long that it took me a while to notice the monthly pattern behind my poor mood regulation and depressive episodes 😂.
I can relate to this! one time I decided to try taking a break from the pills because I have seen some discussion in ADHD spaces that some people experience more anxiety while taking them, and as an anxious person I started wondering if they were having a negative effect boy, that break was SO bad for my mental health, I didn't realize how much the pills did for me, so I firmly went back on and will stay on them for my own sanity
Same! It's mind blowing how much time and energy and ruined clothing went into a monthly period.
they would ruin me, emotionally, mentally, and physically I've been so much more stable since making the decision to look into skipping with oral contraceptives there's not a lot of info on it and some doctors seem to not like the idea, but a female doctor finally agreed with me and just thought that I should let a period through at least every 6 months but other than that she felt it was fine to skip
Yet suffer with a low sex drive too. 😥
Yeah, I’ve been using mine continuously for going on 8 years and it’s AMAZING
I'm on my third one. Not having a period to worry about improved my quality of life immeasurably. I don't want to ever deal with it again.
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I'm so sorry...this sounds like you have been through it. 😩 I make clothes so maybe I can help? What does the dress look like? What kind of bras do you currently own?
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Is boob tape an option? Bras are such a fucking nightmare!
I genuinely complain about them constantly. I FUCKING HATE MY PERIOD. I have gotten it every single month without fail since I was 12. I have a heavy period, bad cramps, and have always needed heavy-duty pads (I have not liked any form of birth control I’ve tried, so this is my lot in life.) Every woman in my family is like this, too. I have a week before my period of being vaguely moody and absolutely ravenous. Then 5-7 days of bleeding, cramping, being exhausted, getting headaches. It’s so unfair. Worst part of being a woman for me.
Same! I get horrible periods and the mood swings start a week before and then a week long period. That's almost half of our lives!! 2 weeks a month dealing with this shit. 😭😭
Yup, they just suck. I wish there were more or better options.
As someone that has horrible endometriosis and worked as a research assistant studying female sexuality including a 3 year study on female ejaculation I appreciate your sentiment but it’s a bit misguided. There is VERY little research on female ejaculation; significantly less than research on endometriosis, which isn’t saying a lot. Trust me there isn’t any money being “wasted” on female ejaculation studies, which are also needed. The lack of research and funding for most female health problems is dismal across the board. We need research into ALL aspects of female health.
I’m not sure but I interpreted the comment you responded to not that money was “wasted” on researching female ejaculation, moreso that the only money spent was on some bullshit research that concluded “squirting is axshually pee” which is now the current consensus even tho the people whose bodies do it know better
That’s fair. Thank you for this interpretation. I may have jumped the gun.
u/justarmadillo5 was correct in their statement. Not that researching women's sexual health is a waste of money in general. Sexual health is vital research for all sexes.
Huh? Squirt *is* made of mostly pee. It’s a different from the act of urinating though.
As someone genuinely struggling with my body and ability to connect with my partner thank you for this. I'm switching meds yet again to deal with an almost non existent sex drive and I'm frustrated and confused
I’ve been struggling with this a lot too. You aren’t alone, fwiw ❤️
When is the last time you tried to talk to a doctor about how much your period messes you up? Asking because I have a friend who had pretty severe symptoms before/during their period for decades (like, all of their sick time went to dealing with their period, their cramps were so severe that they basically could not function or think very well, and OTC meds were very little help). Every time they asked a doctor about it, they were basically told to stop whining, and I know they second guessed themselves a lot about maybe their pain tolerance wasn't that high and they really just needed to get over themselves. A couple years ago they found a doctor that actually *takes their pain seriously* and started working with them to find a medical solution. Now they still get cramps, but they can function through them like most of the rest of us. They're low-key furious at how long they were just allowed to suffer because doctors wouldn't listen to them, and so they stopped asking. Anyway. It doesn't sound like you're talking about regular, common period symptoms, or regular, common ADHD+PMS symptoms. I'm definitely not a doctor. But if you have access to a doctor, I would consider bringing this up to them, especially if it's been a few years since you tried to figure out a solution.
Yes, I have brought it up with many doctors. I was finally told by an OB that ultimately, it is more common than people realize especially for those with depression. However we just don't know enough to have any actual answers.
Have you looked into PMDD? Suicidal thoughts on your period are not typical, and PMDD is a common comorbidity in ADHD women. I have PMDD and the suicidal thoughts have entirely vanished with the help of a very very low dose of Prozac (just 10mg, I had to go lower than the dose they started me on because I got a lot of side effects) It hasn't solved all my period problems, but it has helped a lot with the most distressing emotional issues.
Def, second this. This is very high maintenance always and there is no permanent solution to it.
Working out, dieting and drinking enough water does take its toll on me but my vagina has never given me any issues and is very low maintenance. Have you seen a doctor to figure out why you keep getting reoccurring yeast infections?
yeah. i'll admit i go through bad bouts of depression not showering as much as i should, but its never caused any sort of infection. likely an underlying issue. OP, it could be a number of issues. i suggest u invest in some cotton undies/thongs, since lace and other materials aren't breathable and that alone causes infections. if you're washing ur undies and pants with scent beads or fabric softener, STOP. not only can scented products prompt infections/irritation, but they also leave film on clothes making them less breathable. as for actual cleaning, unscented soap ONLY, cetaphil is my fav. and only wash the outer vulva/labia, u dont want any soap in ur actual vagina. on busy days or whenever you cant bring urself to fully shower, u can do a sink bath. my toilets right next to the sink, so i legit sit on the toilet and wash my bits with my hand on sweaty days or instances i dont have time to shower. unscented baby wipes are also a god send! keep them by the toilet, and keep a pack in ur purse for when ur out and about. but whatever u do please DONT flush them, even if the packaging says its ok. they're full of crap, wipes absolutely destroy pipes, trash only and just incase nobody every taught u, ensure ur always wiping from front to back as well. soon as a tissue touches ur back end, its trash, grab a new one, even if u didnt have a bowel movement. boric acid suppositories are also awesome for all lady issues- uti's, bacterial infections, and yeast. think of it as a probiotic for ur cooter. if u frequently take antibiotics, they're especially helpful, because antibiotics kill *all* bacteria, even the good stuff.
Bonus points for the word use of "cooter" 😆
That word makes me cackle every time I see it
(Dating myself) there was a character named Cooter in the Dukes of Hazzard. I always picture him first.
Lol same, though I’m 25 (my parents watched the show growing up and introduced me to it when I was a kid). I even have a cat named after that Cooter!
I'm from Kentucky and it's common there, but rarely have I seen it anywhere else. For whatever reason, when I was a kid (in the 80s...eek), my parents decided cootie was somehow less vulgar than cooter lol. So you can imagine my horror when I got to kindergarten in Texas (we moved when I was 4) and people were talking about getting their cootie shots 🤣. This is the number one reason (among many) I'm glad people now teach their kids to call genitals by their proper names.
Texas kid here, cootie shots were very popular in the 80s elementary aged kids. 😆
All good ideas, Another good brand of body wash is Lumē which helps to balance your Ph levels of your skin it also contains mandelic acid. In my opinion it works the best. Also, invest in a bidet, it keeps all your bits clean and you will spend less annually on TP. Lastly, try to keep your diet clean.
Lumē is a godsend!! My immune system is super dysfunctional (autoimmunity + some deficiencies). My immunologist (and PCP before) prescribe me prescription topical anti-fungal cream which helps a ton with the itching + stopping an infection before it gets so bad that it takes multiple days Another thing worth contemplating if you don’t mind hormonal birth control…. Skipping periods… It has been a huge bonus to not have a period anymore. While my 2nd IUD didn’t cause my menses to stop like the first one, we just added a tiny oral mini pill and it just makes my life so much easier! No messy blood stains, no surprise spotting, no longer having to worry about tampons/menstrual discs or pre/post cycle yeast infections.
I agree with all of this aside from the boric acid! I read a comment on here praising it so I decided to try it for myself and it made me bleed for 3 weeks 😔
thats a super rare reaction, im sorry that happened to you but boric acids definitely worth a shot for most people. spotting is rare but can happen, but it isn't dangerous more so just annoying. i never used them more than 3x a week with symptoms, aside from that i only use them once in a while for a little refresh
I want to second boric acid suppositories! Very good at keeping things up to code, especially If you’re in a “am I having an issue or just imagining things.” Might want to avoid penetration for a day or two though. Add some coconut oil for soothing if you find the boric acid a little harsh Edit: people say be wary of coconut oil so your mileage may vary! On one hand it’s anti fungal/anti microbial, on the other hand it can throw off the ph balance of the system which would lead to more infections.
If someone is having vaginal issues, coconut oil and boric acid is NOT going to help. She needs a doctor. Can’t believe people are giving medical advice here.
For sure this is more maintenance suggestions not in place of seeing a medical professional.
Coconut oil should not ever go into the vagina or around the vulva though.
Huh. My OBGYN recommended using coconut oil as lube.
Why not, out of curiosity? My doctor was very pro that
It’s alkaline while the vagina is more acidic. Can mess up pH and cause infections.
obviously medical care should be first route. but all of these things listed can cause frequent infections and are easy to overlook. doctors can't always find the cause aside from a dx, and its better to stop it at the root vs constantly taking antibiotics/monistat etc. at one point i was having frequent irritation and inflammation, come to find out it was because i accidentally bought scented TP. immediately stopped when i discontinued use. if its not an std/sti, its caused by an environment factor although i agree, absolutely do not put coconut oil on, in, or around the vulva. that would only exacerbate symptoms; its not sterile, and moisture is horrible for vaginal health- breeding ground for bacteria.
i found out about boric acid from my gynecologist back in 2017. she made sure to say that recommendation was off the record but she and i both got tired of the monthly appointments. i haven’t had an issue since.
Use an upside down peri bottle! I use it for my period and as a bidet when I’m out and about lmao
OP, not sure how old you are – but I had a string of yeast infections when I was 22, 23. After my third time at the doctor, I basically asked “why me?” I wasn’t doing any of the things that I thought were gonna give me a yeast infection. For example I am a cotton underwear girly always and I rarely change soaps. Then my doctor told me that they actually don’t really know why so many young women get yeast infections but they do know that there are risk factors and they include wearing tight clothing, multiple partners, high levels of alcohol and sugar and stress. At that point in my life, those factors could’ve defined me. Also, if you’re using any topical antibiotics, make sure that you wash your hands to prevent any antibiotics reaching regions that they shouldn’t be if you catch my drift.
Low maintenance vagina is funny!
Mine is also thankfully low maintenance. Barely notice it's there unless it's barking for attention.
Now that you mention it, I take it back, my vagina is high maintenance because it's barking for attention on the daily. Health wise though, very low maintenance.
^seconding talking to a doc! An OBGYN I used to work with also had these tips: -Wash only with water, only wash the vulva (the exterior part of the vagina). If you wash too much, the normal bacteria/yeasts can get wiped out and that allows the disease/problem-causing bacteria and yeasts to take over. - (aside from during your period) Sleep with as much vag-ventilation as possible-- ideally nude, but could also use loose cotton boxers/shorts
Fr it could be someone she is sleeping with who keeps giving her yeast infections 😭 men aren’t always clean like they think
Have your guy get checked out, he could have issues with yeast and not know which may cause your reoccurring issues.
I've been wondering this for years. I was with a guy for 7 years and I kept getting unexplained yeast infections and then whenever we broke up the yeast infections stopped. Now I've been with my current husband going on five years and I've had maybe one infection in five years(?) I always wondered if it was an issue with the ex (not sure if it's related but sex also always hurt with the ex and never hurts with the current husband).
I would 100% say your ex was the issue in the reoccurring infections.
Thanks for the reassurance! I've often wondered but never took the time to look into it since I haven't seen him in almost six years lol.
What do they do for the male side?
I’m not sure, perhaps the same they do for women? I’ve never had one, only know that Ken can carry it.
Ah, thanks, just curiosity on my part. Men do carry yeast and can carry the BV bacteria. With women we're tested with a vaginal swab, which men can't use. I guess I'll look up treatment options for men. 😸👍
It’s unreal how much of a pain in the ass it is to get a doc to even test them. I had yeast infection after yeast infection for years and they always blamed me. Guess who it was.
I hate this for you. And all of us. I hate how most medical research is done on men, and yet when it comes to sex stuff, so often it's the woman who has the burden in the actual medical system. Birth control - there's the pill, arm implants, vag implants, all kinds of things for women. Where's the pill for men huh?! (I did just hear of some kind of topically applied male bc that's new, but I guess they don't think men will 'adopt the product' because of fears about how it will affect them...) Fertility issues - maybe this is just my perception, but it seems so often women are like 'let's both get checked' and men are like 'no, I don't want to! My swimmers ARE JUST FINE!' Yeast infections - oh, it's the woman's fault, of course. Of course of course. I'm just talking out of my ass. But I think this shit is real! Sexism when it comes to sexual medical issues, I guess? Or is it just that a lot of men prefer to deny reality when it comes to their dicks, which puts the burden on women? Ugh.
It is real. There are many studies. Was even taught in my doctorate of physical therapy courses. But then students go to clinicals to learn from practicing providers and the bullshit just gets carried on. My aunt who endured torture for 10 years for infertility before the doctor checked her husband’s sperm count. Guess who was the issue. A patient who gave permission for me to tell this story. First child. Doc did an episiotomy despite the fact they’ve been proven more harmful than helpful. Then gave her a husband stitch. She couldn’t tolerate sex. Told her she should have sex anyway, she was being hysterical and her husband would leave her if she didn’t. (Looking at you, Guthrie Healthcare, Horseheads NY for this stellar OB). The women who aren’t told that pelvic floor muscles can be helped without surgery or meds in a lot of cases, for pain, weakness, you name it. Literally hundreds of stories from patients about their MDs that I can’t tell you and I’ve only been practicing 10 years. It makes me ill. I try to push back and educate but MD beats DPT.
Men can get a urethral swab. I imagine it’s painful.
usually first void urine sample (men have it easy), or sometimes urethreal swab (rarely)
I’m sorry friend. My big ones are binge eating and brushing my teeth…. My teeth are just awful and I’m terrified of getting them fixed. Both the process and the cost just make me wanna curl into myself and poof out of existence. It’s ok to be overwhelmed and emotional, it’s ok to get fkin pissed and/or cry about it. I really try to work towards better, it’s not a binary or black/white. It’s a struggle to be kind, but that’s my road. Much love to you. Please keep trying, you’re honestly doing great. Plus you deserve to be on good terms with your vagina, keep pushing until you get a resolution 💛
thank you for this 🥺
Meanwhile men will never wash their penis and just expect people to put it in their mouth
Dont even get me started on it, they have no idea how hard being a woman is
I am in tears laughing from this comment and my husband is so confused and I can't explain which is making it funnier.
Yes it does. I'm so very self conscious about body odor. I do all I can. I have unnecessary shower products and I'm always worried if I'm "smelly." Now with my iud I noticed I do have a slight odor. I hate it and I wonder if my man can smell it too. That and I'm very sensitive and will get infections if I'm not ultra on top of showering after sex and cleaning the area thoroughly. Tmi : but I also have ibs and worry about stains and making sure that area is always super cleaned. It's stressful and I hate it. Makes physical intimacy a chore. I have to eat around whether I'm getting some that night. So no foods that can trigger a flare. 😭
When I first got an IUD, I started getting recurring bacterial vaginosis after having sex. Basically bacteria introduced by your partner’s fingers/penis/sperm can cling to the IUD strings. The best way to clear it up is with boric acid suppositories. Don’t forget that men can be stinky and gross and they tend to have more tolerance than we do for certain things! My boyfriend loves it when he can smell my sweat for example, he says it’s more primal and animalistic, a pheromones thing 🤷🏼♀️ I get grossed out if I’ve got sweaty pits but he really does go wild for my “lady musk” as he puts it lol. I’m sure your man thinks you’re lovely!
Oh my gosh that makes sense. I never thought about the strings!!! I may get those suppositories. Definitely would help when I'm being thrown off. I hate vaginally creams. They burn so bad.
All of this for me too. I did take a birth control once that made me stink down there and my boyfriend kept lying to me about it but he stopped having sex with me and then broke up with me and while we were fighting he told me it WAS stinky. Anyway, don’t date musicians kids.
Wow what a jerk, all that instead of just letting you know, it's not like it was something you were causing on purpose. Glad you are rid of him!
I used to get recurrent yeast infections, now instead of waiting to confirm it’s a full blown infection I use boric acid suppositories at the first sign of discomfort, or what I like to call “sad pussy”. I also stopped having sex with cis men, which greatly reduced the frequency, but that may or may not be an option available to you.
I live in brazil and it’s not common or easy to find boric acid suppositories here unfortunately since I read that it helps a lot
Idk if this helps, but I found this https://www.drogarianet.com.br/acido-borico-600mg-15-ovulos :)
Wow Thank you thats so kind! I’m searching online too, will check it out
You can also make them by buying boric acid and empty vegetable glycerin capsules.
Seconding this - see if you can order the powder and capsules separately and make your own. Better than suppositories with extra ingredients anyway. This was a game changer for me. Hang in there, I know it sucks!
I had a lot of trouble too with a prior partner- are they cleaning their hands and other body parts c well before sexy time? I’ve had two partners since ands zero issues ., but we also shower almost always before.
Yes and we always shower before and after, we are not even that active bc we don’t live that close and have busy routines. I’ve been to several appointments with doctors but nothing has helped much, just the standard procedure with fluconazole and ointments
Oh ok - I just wanted to ask. Honestly I think I might have been a little allergic to that ex. Best of luck to you- I wish I had more suggestions!
I feel overwhelmed by my vagina in a way where my rights (bc I have a vagina) are slowly being taken away (in the US) and I’m scared. PS have you tried taking probiotics? Might help!
Here in Brazil we never had the right to have an abortion (unless it’s from a rape and it’s on the firsts weeks) now even that is being taken away from us, since the disgusting conservative side wants to punish women who abort after 22 weeks (sexual violence case) with more years in prision than the rapist itself! So yeah, I feel you
That’s so fucked. The world is so fucked. And pardon my continued use of fuck, but FUCK. I’m sorry. That has to be so scary. I definitely took my rights for granted before they started being taken away.
I agree with all of this, especially the use of fuck because what else can you say when you look around the shitshow of a planet where you’re just a meaty incubator? At least that’s how I feel. I don’t blame any gal for just getting it removed. Do it now before you lose that right too.
And regarding the probiotics, they’re not so common here, so I’m trying to get them through food
If you can find a product called kefir, it is amazing re: probiotics. It's kind of like yogurt you can drink.
If everything is normal, your vagina shouldn't be bothering you (except during your period). It really only acts up when something is wrong. I recommend seeing a gynaecologist to get to the bottom of it. If you're not concerned with having kids right now, ask them for birth control that takes your period away.
It might sound weird but genuinely it’s a good idea to go to the doctor and make sure your blood sugar is within healthy range. Ladies can also contract BV and be given it multiple times if you have or have had a partner who has it without any symptoms—it happens more than one might think. Get a pap done for an STI panel even though it will likely be negative—it’s just a helpful tool to rule it out. I didn’t have anyone to teach me because my mom passed when I was young, but there’s also a *proper direction to wipe* that I didn’t know about until I was an adult. Go from front to back. Ooh! Another random thought. If you happen to use any kind of sex toys, there is special cleaner for them that is safe for type of product they’re made to clean and also less likely to irritate the lady bits than say dish soap residue might. Also, avoiding soap in the vagina is a good idea; it can irritate and cause imbalance to its typical pH. You can get one of those shower heads with a handle and hose extension so you can really rinse everything front to back with adjustable flow. Hope this helps, even if only one of the aspects of hop-ha care discussed is something pertinent to anyone’s situation.
After years of hesitation because I didn't want to mess with my hormones, I finally asked a doctor about a hormonal IUD. He suggested the Kyleena because it's a lower dose of hormones than some of the others, but just as effective. (IUDs already have a lower dose of hormones than other forms of hormonal birth control because they're right in your uterus, and don't need to go through your intestinal tract, bloodstream, etc.) It's been amazing. My periods got lighter immediately, and about a year later, they'd completely disappeared. After 4 years, I started getting light spotting around the time of my period, because the amount of hormones is starting to get reduced, since I'm nearing the time to replace the IUD. (My doctor assured me that it's effectiveness for birth control is not reduced.) Prior to this, I had the copper IUD twice. So I'm no stranger to the insertion and removal. The insertion hurts, there's no getting around it, it feels like you're getting punched in the uterus. But it doesn't hurt for long, it's a moment of pain and then discomfort afterwards but tolerable. I drove myself home just fine after my last 2 insertions. The benefits are incredible! It's so amazing to have reduced or eliminated periods! I'll never go back to non-hormonal birth control again unless absolutely necessary!!!
I recommend IUDs to anyone that complains about periods. I have the Kyleena, too. I've had an IUD for six years now. When I got it changed out last year, I bled for 1-2 days afterwards and it was TERRIBLE. I hated dealing with all the blood. It reminded me why I'll always have an IUD. I think a lot of people are scared of IUDs because of the few horror stories. But the horror stories are always the ones you hear, you rarely hear people say "I've never had an issue with my IUD" because there's no reason to talk about it?? It's just... There. Anyways, I highly recommend getting an IUD to anyone reading this!!! You will love how easy it is!
Yup, that's just it! You hear the horror stories because that's what people talk about, but 99% of folks have no issues and just quietly go about their lives not talking about it. I was such a heavy bleeder in my teens and twenties and I only wish I'd gotten this kind of IUD sooner!!!
An IUD has been fantastic to me. 100% recommend Kyleena.
I've struggled with this issue before as well. My GYN finally recommended boric acid vaginal suppositories and it worked like a charm.
I certainly wouldn't chose vagina again if I had the choice 😂 I have struggled with extremely painful periods since my early 20s. They're so bad I've thought about surgery.. My mom had a hysterectomy at a young age for the same reason. Periods suck so much, tampons and pads suck, landscaping sucks, UTI’s suck, PAP smears suuuuck, constant fluctuating hormones that literally affect your brain function suck. Im currently 6mo pregnant and I'm learning what is about to happen to my body thinking “men are so fking lucky, they have no idea what we deal with”. 😂
Boric acid capsules have been a life saver for me. I’ve accepted that I just have a “delicate pH balance”, and it’s so much easier to pop a capsule up there if I start to feel things getting out of whack. Also, have to be very stringent about hand washing if anyone’s going exploring.
Ughhhh the struggle is real! Have you ever been tested for bacterial vaginosis? Symptoms are similar to YI, but takes meds to clear it up…
OP- I used to get recurring yeast infections due to no real cause that I could tell. Never had one til I was almost 30 and then suddenly I was getting them like every other month. Super frustrating. I added a women’s probiotic supplement to my morning vitamins and haven’t had one since - it’s been years at this point. Might be worth a try!
I had the same issues with my vagina for awhile. Constant yeast infections for no reason. What helped me was a course of boric acid supplements and probiotics. I have only had one yeast infection since and it was because I was on harsh antibiotics for 2 weeks.
I would make an appt with a doctor (a GOOD ONE) to get to the bottom of the infections. I know for myself, I cant wear any kind of spanx/excersise clothing as undies because the bacteria will just bloom. My favorite undies are the microfiber ones, but I know those can give some women yeast infections too. Some women swear only to cotten undies. Maybe try out different undies fabric types? Untill you find an end to it tho, may your monistat be cheap and plentiful =')
I have chronic UTI’s, Ive been getting them constantly since I was 6 and I’m almost 20 now 😭 although it’s not the same as a yeast infection I still understand your struggles and anxiety’s, I try so hard to make sure I don’t get one and follow a lot of steps and precautions but it still happens 💔 you aren’t alone
Have you tried d-mannose? Changed my life
Just in case… Make sure you aren’t using those “intimate washes.” I had recurring yeast infections for years until I learned those often cause them. Stopped using them and I haven’t had one since!
I say to my husband all the time, “Having a uterus and vagina is the worst. 0/10, do not recommend. Never get a uterus, trust me on this one.”
The Flow app taught me a lot about discharge and what’s normal and what’s not. And changing my diet changed my discharge a lot. Mainly going gluten free and mostly dairy free. Maybe see if things change based on an elimination diet and see if that helps.
Things that have been game-changers (as somebody who used to previously suffer from yeast infections a lot: 1. Cotton panties 80%+ of the time 2. Reducing hot bubble baths 3. Boric acid suppositories 4. Coconut oil suppositories 5. Drinking water (lol) I don't use suppositories a LOT but if I start to feel yucky or itchy (OP I'm sure you know what that's like) then I use one and that prevents. I mainly use coconut oil in a preventative way and boric acid in a curative way.
I used to get yeast infections a lot because the women in my family insisted that you wash your actual vagina with soap and not just your vulva, suds up in there were a nightmare! I’m still prone to UTI’s though, I have a small bladder and don’t notice when I’m hyper focusing, can’t remember to do anything without a reminder
Pee after sex and after washing. Immediately and always. This means pee in the shower since that's where you wash but after sex, get up and go to the toilet, don't pee the bed.
If you have a consistent partner you might want to check their hygiene. When I have recurring infections it was from the boy I was sleeping with
If possible it might be worth getting the thrush checked - I kept getting thrush but then the doctor found out the strain of yeast was resistant to the over the counter/common treatment so I was put on antibiotics and it finally cleared it up!!! Used to get them sooooo easily and frequently (think the yeast was just permanently living in the depths of me!). Now I don't remember the last time I had it!
I know you're all American but as someone from Europe please do not use boric acid in or near your vagina 🤦♀️ especially if you want to have kids in the future, not only can it cause irritation, discomfort, & chemical burns but it's a reprotoxic and can seriously damage your fertility
Oh my Goodness YES😭😭😭 im currently on month FOUR of a yeast infection that won't go away and have seen two specialists already. I wash frequently but always have the same questions as you "is this normal?" It's exhausting ffs and i haven't even been able to touch MYSELF in four months 🙃😭
Would rather not be punished each month by my reproductive system but since I aaaaam, these things have helped: - Period panties. No worry about forgotten tampons or an extra monthly expense, just wash and re-use. They ain’t cute but they get the job done. - Bidet. Can be installed at home and gives my little lady an extra rinse. Takes getting used to but worth it. - Pee after sex. Always. Even if you recently did, pee again. - Hydrate and drain. I used to be UTI prone. If I feel one coming I drink lots of water and sit on the toilet and just drain as much as pee as I can for as long as I can, just a little bit every minute or so. Getting the bacteria out early prevents it from worsening or turning into an infection. I had a kidney infection over a decade ago and so I am a bit more vigilant about taking care of things down there than I was before.
I’ve never had a yeast infection, but I’m very tired of periods. I’m done having kids, due to the wreckage the two I have made of my vagina/uterus (plus the obvious financial obstacles) so why can’t I be done with this shit?
I don’t think I’ve ever had yeast but I have chronic recurring UTIs and it honestly to god makes me want to die. It disrupts my sleep so badly and I already have insomnia, and I think it makes my vaginismus worse because I now have anxiety that sex will give me another UTI. I also have endometriosis and I would gladly never have another period in my life but premature menopause sounds just as, if not more disruptive. Don’t get me started on pregnancy scares. I never, ever want to be pregnant. I don’t ever intend to use any of these accursed organs, they just cause problems. At least the appendix potentially has some kind of purpose in maintaining the gut microbiome or something. Uterus? Useless. I fucking hate my body, I never asked for any of this.
The body is a flesh prison.
100%. More days than not a resent having to use and take care of my meat suit. I have more issues with caring for my chest than my vagina but I dislike caring for both. I'm sure a good part of it is gender dysphoria for me personally, but I also relate to you as a person with adhd, absolutely. My chest is large and also prone to yeast infections. It's the absolute worst, especially in the summer time. Even when I'm 100% on top of applying all the products and hygiene that my doctor(s) give me, it still itches and I fucking hate it. Last summer I had a particularly bad yeast infection and I called out of work for two days and at one point I was so discouraged, overstimulated, and dysphoric that I just laid face-down straight on to the carpet and just cried for like 20 minutes. My partner came home and helped me cool down but yeah, some days I hate having a body.
This sucks. I'm sorry you experience this. I used to get yeast infections under my boobs and under my apron belly. What solved it for me was using a coarse ground rice flour. It needs to still feel gritty. I think the exfoliation is what helped.
Oh thank you! I did finally find something that helps a little - salicylic acid serum. It's supposed to be for your face (which I also use it for), but it's literally the only thing that both stopped new yeast/acne from forming and actually cleared up the scarring black spots! I will also remember the rice flour for days when it's super hot or muggy.
I have a double prolapse which is exhausting. It just gets in the way of EVERYTHING. I have to think about how I move, lift, exercise, poop. I am sick of having to dedicate precious mental resources to things that shouldn't even need a second thought.
Do you have regular unprotected PiV sex? It’s turned out through recent studies a lot of women/people who suffer with yeast and uti’s who were constantly told to fix their diet/weight/underwear etc were just having sex with partners who don’t wash enough
Only when I have a man as a sexual partner do I have any issues with my vagina lol. Otherwise I have found having one to be fairly maintenance free! Every once in a while a bubble bath with upset my ph but usually the culprit is a dick.
I wish I could tell you it gets better, but there's something with every age...I'm going through peri now and just had my first bout of "vulvitis." What the hell?! I'd never even HEARD of that! I thought maybe I had a yeast infection (never had one before), but apparently taking too long to cool down after a workout in this hot, humid weather brought it on. When I pointed out to the OBGYN that I'd never had this happen before, she said the drop in estrogen makes things more sensitive down there. Great. 😬
My solution to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis: ditch any kind of soap or cleanser on your labia. Even ones that say they are pH balanced are too harsh for the delicate biome down there. Give her a rinse every day and you’ll be fine.
Don’t do anything to it and you should be fine, sounds like you’re using products thinking you’re taking care of your hygiene but it should be left alone. Its self cleaning already
Take this with a grain of salt as I know virtually nothing personally about this, but I used to work at a holistic doctor’s office and they would sometimes recommend the Candida diet if someone was having issues with yeast (plus other things I’m sure). My coworker had done it like 3 times and swore by it. Drastically reduced her gut symptoms and her yeast infections. I don’t do diets because I’m already an intensely picky eater, but figured it was something worth mentioning.
Candida diet is super restrictive and should ideally be monitored by a doctor if you do it long enough. Also it's likely not quite addressing the issue here...
Thank you, I search about it! Right now I’m trying not to eat too much sugar (which is hard bc my anxiety gets in the way 💀)
I used to get yeast infections a LOT. Not so much post menopause . But I definitely learned how to get rid of them fast. White vinegar, a teaspoon of it, in a douche. Twice a day. This acidifies the vagina and yeast doesn't like it. You can also put plain yogurt in douche water, it will help rebalance as the lactobaccilus fights the yeast and replenishes your probiotics. Douches are not forever, just until the yeast symptoms abate. Normally you do not want anything in the vagina that wasn't designed to be (like a baby or a sex partner's parts). And this one is weird, but it WORKS fast, I had to do this in desperation when I was in China where there were zero medications available: a drop or two of regular Listerine mouthwash on a tampon, leave it in overnight and that infection will be GONE. Listerine contains Thymol which is an antifungal. No harmful effects.
Hey! I have chronic candidiasis/yeast infections. I had one that took me almost three years to treat bc the yeast was immune to all treatments. The way to go here is taking all of the carbs out of your diet, and the only thing that really helped me was Boric Acid suppositories, once a day before sleeping for a week and then once a week. Probiotic suppositories also help in this treatment (twice a week) It is not easy having ADHD and following these treatments. But trust me, you won't need to use wipes, special soaps, anything. Your vagina will clean itself with a balanced Ph Edit: Yeast feeds itself with sugars. The diet thing could be crucial, but I know it is not easy to take carbs and sugar out of the diet. Also, remember, antibiotics could be causing your yeast infection, too. It's been two years since I got rid of my yeast infection, but I fear the day it comes back. I hope you get better soon
I suffered with yeast infections too. What heleped me is to eat pumpkin seeds. My girl has a health scent now and no bad smell.
Really? I didn’t know that, will try! I’m trying to eat more natural yogurt as it helps with the flora and healthy bacteria
Really. I am out of yeast problems for almost 9 years. I suffered for 8 years of yeast infections before. Anti-yeasts creams from my Obgyn helped always only temporarily. Whenever my girl starts smell bad (but it really didn't happen in a long time) I start eating pumpkin seeds. It doesn't have to be much (for me). 20 grams daily are enough. After 2 - 4 days of eating them I am healthy. It helps me even with bacterial infections. I don't like their taste much but in our grocery store I discovered pumpkin seeds who are salted and roasted. This tastes good and works on my vaginal infections too.
In regard to hygiene, you should get a portable bidet to put beside your toilet, and use it after every toilet use. It will help sm in regard to cleaning your period blood.
Get a Diva Cup. They are worth every cent.
For my whole life, yep. It's so much work and maintenance, it's annoying as fuck. Grrrrr.
Dude its so tiring. I get a uti so fast and i‘m taking all these supplements but i also think my adhd meds emphasizes the uncomfortable feeling. Having a long ass period that lasts up to 7 days straight is exhausting, the up and down of the hormones and the effect it has on my adhd😭 Dont get me started with bacterial infections 🫠🫠🫠
D mannose is amazing to prevent and treat UTIs.
I relate to this completely. ****Do you wear tampons? It took months for me to realize they were causing all my issues, and I was devastated. I hated wearing pads (im in menopause now). Nothing like feeling like a baby in a diaper than slapping a pad in your underwear.
Vaginas are the worst! Probiotics changed my life tho!
Get tested for Trichomoniasis. Where I am, it is not a standard STD test, you have to ask for it specifically. It can mimic the symptoms of BV or yeast infections. Also take D-Mannose as a supplement after sex. It helps reduce your chances of getting UTI’s from sex. I’m so sorry you have to deal with this. It can be very frustrating. Hope you get some answers.
PSA!!! For ANY yeast, smell, pH change after sex, irritating discharge, BV: BORIC ACID SUPPOSITORIES, and a Vaginal Pre/probiotic (never need more than three days BA, and the other I use only when a “full reset” is necessary) For UTI’s D-Mannose works every time fast. It is a sugar that binds to the harmful bacteria and flushes it out. These are the easiest, fastest, most effective methods I have ever used- and I’ve run the gambit of antifungals, antibiotics (caused the yeast in the first place), home remedies (up to and including putting garlic up my vag for a serious and persistent candida infection caused by antibiotics that didn’t respond to anything else) I’ve read too many hours of threads to count from nurses, OBGYN’s, certified herbalists, and people like me trying to figure out their vagina and comparing notes on what works This is the most practical, effective, and inexpensive and least harmful way to deal with all of these issues. I am yelling because I wish I knew sooo long ago. I never go without these in my cabinet now though rarely need to use them. This is after going a year and a half straight with yeast and bv. Hoping to save some lives here!
getting off hormonal birth control stopped mine but that’s not always accessible
Boric Acid suppositories cured my yeast infections
Coconut oil is amazing. antibacterial, works as lube and moisturizer for irritation and it has a bit of a coconutsmell but I agree with everyone else talk to your doctor that sucks :( and change ur undies in the morning and at night and after a shower and sometimes I finding don't have it in me to do a full shower with washing my hair just do a body shower or even lower body shower every otherday or as needed! And cotten underwear !!! No leggings and maybe sleep in boxer briefs for ventilation ? Those are my ideas I hate always having to shave and wash my hair and take care of it and exercise is hard hahahahah
I have to say men is pretty low maintenance, you should really see a doctor or Gynae about this, and don’t let them gaslight you, keep searching until you get answers because that’s no way to live mate.
Regular yeast infections can be a symptom of diabetes. Some pharmacies will test you for free. I would get it checked out, even if just to rule it out.
Take a micro biome test!!! There could be other bacteria down there causing issues!!!
I am quite shit at taking care of myself, but I've never had any problems with yeast infections or anything of the sort. Worst I've ever dealt with is allergic reactions to certain fabrics used in underwear and the occasional ingrown hair (mind you, I am asexual and I don't have sex, so I'm also lower risk for these kinds of health issues). Talk to your doctor. Also get your guy checked out, they can carry yeast and BV, his shitty hygiene could be causing problems for you. Now my dental hygiene? That's a dumpster fire.
Garden of life vaginal probiotics. Get them ASAP.
Hey bb I have heard of this Apple Cider Soap that is used for fussy vajayjays like yours....I've used it too, by Say it Scents. I think it's called the Girly Bar. The creator sweara by it because she constantly gets BV without it and apparently a lot of people like it. I like it too but never has these issues so I can't swear by it. I hope you can get it under control!!! ALSO AZO makes a probiotic for women's down unders. ;) I think it can help keep the bacteria all balanced out.
Right there with you. I'm one year out from basically a c-section to remove fibroids (largest was the size of a newborns head). The years leading up to it were long, exhausting, and terrible.
Having a vagina is sooo hard lol. I mean, mine is pretty cute so ill keep him, but still. I went through a phase of seemingly always having a yeast infection and eventually my pussy just calmed down lol. It defs happened more when i was on and off antibiotics a lot, so maybe you are taking a medication that is throwing you off? Also cotton panties. Polyester etc will always set me off. And bubble bath etc. Idk why but my pussy is more resilient these days. But anyway i havent seen anyone on this thread mention it so--APPLE CIDER VINEGAR (with the "mother" for proper probiotics). And i dont meant drinking it (bad for your teeth). I would put a bit in a bath, or i would wet a paper towel with water first to dilute than cover it in apple cider vinegar and just sorta...lay it over my pussy for a bit. It can feel intense and weird but theres also a tangible cooling/relief. Tbh was the most effective treatment i tried.
Do you take fluconazole? That stuff is great
Put some non flavored (this is important) Greek yogurt on a tampon and yeet it up your vagine and it can help with the yeast infection. The boric acid suppositories also help. Ever since my uterus declared that it didn’t like the conditions and flounced off with my cervix, it’s been very low key down there. Good luck!
Guys when you pms does your adhd act up like crazy too?
As a currently pregnant person who does not enjoy being pregnant at all, I am deeply deeply jealous of my husband. I also get recurring UTIs. So annoying. Men’s bodies are so low maintenance, they’d don’t know how lucky they are. 🙄
You are right! When I was a child and learned what periods were I cried because I was mad I had to deal with it. Staying on top of the hygiene is a pain, changing pads/tampons is a pain. Sometimes I struggle to get in the shower but my period forces me because I’ve leaked or I just smell. I just found out I’m pregnant and now my vagina is doing even weirder things. I’m not looking forward to the extra care and attention I have to give to my body now. That many yeast infections is not normal though. I really recommend going to a doctor. I’ve found that yeast infections are caused by such random things. For example, if you take any antibiotic there’s a high chance you’ll get a yeast infection. There could be something going on that’s causing the frequent irritation. Is best to get to the bottom of it so you can have a better quality of life.
A few tips I’ve been given to keep infections away: -Cotton underwear -Wash clothes with free and gentle detergent -Use dove gentle soap bars (not the shower gel) -nothing with scents or dyes should be used to clean the area -you don’t really need to douche -if it wasn’t designed to be put inside of you, don’t put it inside of you. As for the periods, mine have gotten much lighter and easier to manage since I got an IUD.
I get to have my cervix cauterized in a few weeks to prevent my abnormal cells from marching closer to cancer. It's going to increase my chances of miscarriage. I won't be able to take a bath, one of my only comforts when I'm stressed or in pain, for 2 months after the procedure. I'm less than pleased about this whole situation. Get your pap smears, ladies. While this shit sucks it's better than cancer.
Quick question? How old are you? I had many more issues in my teens then in my twenties, at least when it comes to yeast and bladder infections. Im not sure what im doing different. I did go vegetarian at some point and I moved to europe but no other major changes. Same type of clothes and period products, same wiping style etc. So maybe becoming older, moving to europe or quiting meat will help you. I highly doubt it but hey maybe there is hope.