Her story echoes a common reality for many women. Vulvovaginal infections are among the leading reasons women seek medical advice, accounting for around 10 million doctor visits annually. Two of the most prevalent culprits? Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), or thrush, and bacterial vaginosis (BV). For many, these aren’t just one-time issues, and recurring episodes of thrush can disrupt not only physical health, but also emotional well-being and day-to-day life .

Stress, depression, and other life challenges can compromise the immune system, making women more susceptible to infections. Too often, intimate health takes a backseat to other priorities, with symptoms brushed off as minor inconveniences. However, repeatedly ignoring vulvovaginal infections or self-medicating with over-the-counter remedies without proper diagnosis can lead to worsening conditions and result in long-term complications.

One infection after another

“I experience vaginal infections almost every month", she continues. “Sometimes the infections follow no clear pattern, though at times they seem to be linked to my menstrual cycle. I often have to take antibiotics as I suffer from both urinary and vaginal infections simultaneously.”

For many women, this frustrating cycle is way too familiar. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of vaginitis in women of reproductive age. Unfortunately, treating BV can sometimes trigger a domino effect, leading to recurrent BV infections, which can also lead to secondary fungal infections like thrush.

The vaginal microbiota is a dynamic, constantly shifting ecosystem that changes throughout a woman’s life stages and hormonal shifts. Estrogens, a key group of hormones, play a significant role in these changes by means of their fluctuating levels which are one of the main factors contributing to the development of BV. So, yes, the complex relationship between hormones and vaginal health is no joke and seems fair to highlight.

The impact on intimacy: A hidden struggle

Worried, the chemist reveals another layer of suffering: the infections’ impact on her intimate life. “Recurring infections have affected my sexual life. They have caused discomfort and anxiety. My sexual life is important for my well-being, but the fear of complications afterward makes me hesitant to engage in sexual intercourse.”

For many women, vaginal infections do more than just disrupt physical health — they leave emotional scars. Feelings of embarrassment, shame, and frustration can chip away self-esteem, making women feel unattractive and insecure. These effects often extend into relationships, creating distance between partners.

Navigating intimacy amidst recurring infections requires patience, understanding, and empathy—from both the individual and their partner. Supportive partners who listen without judgment and provide reassurance can help alleviate some of the emotional burden. Open communication and mutual sensitivity are key to fostering connection and maintaining trust through such deeply personal struggles. 

Finding strength in shared stories

“I engaged with diverse communities of women from different ethnicities and countries which helped me realise that these infections are a common issue - not something unique to me,” she shares. “This broader perspective offered me comfort and support, and helped me manage my condition better..”.

For many women, the emotional toll is one of the hardest parts of dealing with vaginal infections. Symptoms like the fishy odor that often accompanies BV can create a constant sense of vulnerability, leading some to withdraw from social situations or avoid close interactions. The stigma and the lack of open communication can further deepen these feelings of isolation, leaving women feeling dismissed or misunderstood.

Learning that these conditions are widespread and not a personal “failing” can be transformative. It shifts the narrative from self-blame to self-acceptance, empowering women to face their condition with greater resilience. Community spaces, whether online or in-person, can offer a safe haven for women to share experiences, seek advice, and gain a sense of solidarity. Knowing they are not alone is often the first step toward reclaiming confidence and well-being.