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Confidential information and advice on sexual health
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Getting to know your body and those lady bits is important, and here are a few things you might like to know
I have noticed that I have a discharge in my pants. Do I need to worry?
A small amount of clear or slightly milky vaginal discharge is normal. It acts as a lubricant and keeps the vagina healthy. There may be more discharge on certain days of the menstrual cycle. If there is much more discharge than normal, or it is discoloured or smelly, then it could be thrush, a sexually transmitted infection or another infection. You should go and get it checked out by your doctor or local SWISH service
What else can go wrong?
Vaginal thrush, also called yeast infection, is an overgrowth of yeast that leads to a range of unpleasant symptoms, such as itching and soreness around the vagina. You should see a doctor or nurse if you have symptoms.
Most women will have thrush at least once during their lives, and many will have more than one episode. But for some women, thrush keeps coming back. For more information on symptoms and the treatment for cystitis, check out: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Thrush/
Cystitis, also called yeast infection, is an overgrowth of yeast that leads to infection of the bladder, but the term is often used indiscriminately, and covers a range of infections and irritations in the lower urinary system. It causes burning sensations during urination and a frequent need to urinate. For more information on symptoms and the treatment for cystitis, check out: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Cystitis
Underwear
Thongs eliminate the VPL, but those pesky pants can rub in awkward places and be uncomfortable to wear for too long. Plus, there's a chance they can increase the spread of bacteria between the vagina and anus, and increase the risk of thrush and cystitis.
If you can't give up thongs completely, wear them in moderation or only under skimpy outfits. Invest in some healthier cotton pants that won't put your health at risk.
HPV Vaccination
All girls aged 12 to 13 are offered HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccination as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme. The vaccine protects against cervical cancer. It's usually given to girls in year eight at schools in England. For more information click here
Your breasts
Every woman is different and each person's body develops at their own rate, so don't worry about what might be seen as normal size and at what age.
It's unusual for teenagers to get breast cancer. Lumps, bumps and changes to the breast are common, and most of them are benign (non-cancerous).
There's no set method of checking your breasts, but get to know what they look and feel like so that you'll notice any changes. However, it's normal for your breasts to change in size or become more tender during your menstrual cycle.
