In all cases, bleeding or unusual changes in the menstrual cycle require consultation with a specialist… First part of the material 4. Itching It is possible for a woman to experience itching of the genital organs without the presence of vaginal discharge. This is most often due to the use of perfumed toiletries, whether it is soap, intimate gel, lubricants or other types of intimate products. Especially with sensitive skin, aromatic substances cause itching and inflammation. Although itching may not be a serious problem, it is preferable to carry out an examination with the collection of secretions for examination, as it is possible to detect the presence of infectious agents at the same time. In rare cases, vaginal itching may be due to the rare condition lichen sclerosus. Then the skin becomes pigmented, stands like lichen. Small, white pimples appear on the vulva, which grow into larger spots. The skin there thins and wrinkles. In addition to itching, a woman may complain of discomfort, pain, bleeding, blistering. It occurs more in postmenopausal women. It requires specialist treatment, as its deepening can cause sores on the genitals and problems with urination and sex. Although minimal, there is also a risk of skin degeneration. That’s why doctors recommend that any vaginal lesion be tested to rule out the presence of cancerous changes. As for lichen sclerosus, it is still unclear what causes it, the disease is thought to be immune and/or hormonal based. 5. Lumps and Lumps Some women may develop sebaceous cysts and lumps in the groin area, including the genitals. In pregnant women, a similar bulge occurs due to varicose veins. The presence of ulcers can be a sign of herpes, but it can also be a symptom of cancer, which requires consultation with a specialist. Unusual lumps, wart-like formations, red, flat blisters that do not respond to treatment also point to such a possibility. The skin may become depigmented and scaly. Melanoma – the most dangerous form of skin cancer – does not exclude the vulva area. Symptoms include the formation of gray-black or brown moles on the genitals. 6. Abnormal bleeding Very often, contraceptive pills cause bleeding outside of the cycle, which is not a sign of concern. This discomfort should still be reported to the obstetrician-gynecologist, so that he can assess the need to change the preparation. However, in the event that bleeding is present without taking contraceptives, especially if it continues for more than a month or two, the condition requires a competent decision. In general, alarming signs are when menstruation lasts longer than usual, bleeding occurs in the middle of the cycle or two periods are counted within a month, bleeding after sex. NEWS_MORE_BOX Atypical bleeding is observed in the pre-menopausal woman,as well as polyps and fibroids (fibroids) of the uterus. However, the gynecologist should clarify what nature it is. Let women not be misled by their age and think that the changes in the cycle are only due to the hormonal changes that occur with the years. The condition of the thyroid gland also affects the menstrual cycle. Usually, with hyperfunction of the gland, women list similar complaints, such as shortening of the menstrual cycle, scanty menstrual bleeding… In lactating and postmenopausal women, rubbing the skin in general and sexual intercourse with a dry vagina can cause skin injuries and discharge of droplets of blood. If a woman complains of bleeding after every intercourse, the presence of an infection affecting the cervix is ​​assumed. Cervical lesions and bleeding after sex are seen in sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, chlamydia infection. In women after menopause, vaginal bleeding can be a signal of uterine or ovarian cancer, so the symptom should not be ignored even at a later age or in the absence of sex life. Attention should also be paid to any vaginal bleeding before puberty and during pregnancy. In any case, consultation with a specialist is only beneficial.