Infections and intimate health
Urinary and vaginal infections
Urinary and vaginal infections are among the most common reasons women see a gynaecologist. They are also among the most likely to be self-treated with a leftover antibiotic or an over-the-counter cream, which can settle the symptoms briefly and make the underlying problem harder to identify later.
These are ordinary medical problems. They are discussed here plainly and privately, without any expectation that you should feel awkward raising them.
Symptoms to have looked at
Having one of these does not necessarily mean something is wrong. It means the question is worth asking.
- Burning or stinging when passing urine
- Needing to pass urine frequently, or urgently, with little coming out
- Lower abdominal discomfort or pressure
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Infections that keep returning after treatment
- A change in the colour, consistency or smell of vaginal discharge
- Itching, soreness or irritation around the vaginal area
- Discomfort during intercourse
- Any concern about sexual or reproductive health you would like to ask about privately
How a consultation may help
- Distinguishing between a urinary infection, a vaginal infection and other causes with similar symptoms
- Advising the right test, since treating the wrong thing is a common reason symptoms return
- Prescribing appropriately rather than repeating a course that has already failed
- Looking into why infections keep coming back, if that is the pattern
- Sensible, practical advice on daily habits that reduce recurrence
- Answering sexual health questions factually, without judgement
What to expect at your visit
A straightforward conversation
What you are experiencing, for how long, and anything you have already tried, including medicines bought without a prescription.
Examination only if useful
An examination is not always needed. If it is, the reason is explained first and you decide whether to proceed.
The right test
A urine test or swab may be advised, done at a diagnostic centre. Results are then matched to the treatment.
A complete course, and a follow-up
Clear instructions on how long to continue, and when to return if symptoms have not settled.
Common questions
Answers here are general. Your own situation is what the consultation is for.
Everything I discuss here stays private, doesn't it?
Yes. Consultations are confidential. You can also come alone if you would prefer to discuss something without a family member present.
I keep getting urine infections. Why?
Recurrent infections can relate to incomplete treatment, resistant organisms, hormonal changes, or other factors. Repeated episodes are a reason to investigate the pattern rather than simply treating each one as it comes.
Is discharge always a sign of infection?
No. Some discharge is normal and varies through the cycle. A change in colour, smell, amount or texture, particularly with itching or discomfort, is what makes it worth checking.
Can I just take the antibiotic that worked last time?
It is best not to. Repeating an antibiotic without knowing what is causing the current episode can leave an infection partly treated and contributes to resistance. A short consultation avoids that.
Can this be handled over teleconsultation?
Sometimes, particularly for follow-ups or discussing test results. First episodes with unclear symptoms are usually better assessed at the clinic.
Discuss this with Dr. Disha Ghoniya
Send a request with your preferred day and a short line about what has been happening. The clinic will confirm a time that works.