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By Tracee Cornforth, About.com

Updated: December 8, 2003

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Seek the advice of your healthcare provider if any of the following occur:

  • Vaginal pain.

  • Vaginal itching.

  • Vaginal burning.

  • A foul odor from your vagina.

  • Painful urination.

  • Any vaginal discharge that is different from your normal discharges such as thick and white, cottage cheese-like, or yellowish-green.

These symptoms are indicative of a number of different conditions from yeast infections to bacterial infections, STDs, and urinary tract infections -- all of which are treatable with prescription medication. If you suspect you have a vaginal infection contact your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment -- don't try to wash it away with a douche.

Never douche before you visit your doctor! Remember, douching can wash away the vaginal discharge that can identify the type of infection that you have.

Don't forget -- vaginal douching is neither an effective method of birth control or STD or infection prevention.

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