Day: February 21, 2024

What is vardenafil (Levitra)? Vardenafil is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED, also called impotence) in males. It is sometimes known by its generic name, vardenafil and sometimes known by its trade name, Levitra. How does vardenafil work? Vardenafil works by helping to relax the blood vessels in the penis, allowing blood to flow in more easily. If you have erectile dysfunction, this can make it easier to get an erection. Vardenafil doesn’t cause erections on its own — sexual stimulation is still needed. Vardenafil does not: cure erectile dysfunction (ED) increase your sexual desire protect from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) serve as contraception How do

E-cigarettes (vaping) What is an e-cigarette? E-cigarettes heat liquids to produce a vapour that looks like smoke, which users inhale. Using an e-cigarette is often called ‘vaping’. The liquids can contain chemicals and flavourings, like chocolate, bubble-gum and fruity flavours. E-cigarettes might be shaped like cigarettes, cigars, pens or other common items. Are e-cigarettes legal? Nicotine vaping products can only be purchased from a pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription. This includes nicotine e-cigarettes, pods and liquid nicotine. It is also illegal to import disposable vapes from overseas — whether they contain nicotine or not. This means that it’s against the

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) What is bacterial vaginosis? Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition. It is sometimes known as BV, non-specific vaginitis, or Gardnerella. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the types of bacteria that live in the vagina are out of balance. It is normal to have vaginal discharge. But any change in what you usually experience might mean there is an underlying issue. What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis? In about half of all cases of bacterial vaginosis, there are no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually include: a white or greyish, wateryvaginal discharge an unpleasant or ‘fishy’

Vaginismus causes the muscles around the vagina to tighten involuntarily. This can cause some pain and discomfort. Vaginismus can occur whether you have had sex or not. Vaginismus usually occurs when the genital area is touched. This can be before sexual intercourse, before trying to insert a tampon, or during a gynaecological examination, for example. What are the causes of vaginismus? There are several possible causes of vaginismus. These include physical and psychological factors, such as: trauma during childbirth medical conditions like recurrent UTIs, yeast infections (thrush), chronic pain syndromes, endometriosis rape, sexual abuse or assault in the past a painful examination

What is vaginal thrush? Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection caused by the candida species of fungus. It is easily treated and can be prevented. It is also called vaginal candidiasis. Thrush occurs in many areas of the body, but especially in the vagina, anus and mouth. Vaginal thrush can affect women of any age, although it is more common in women between the ages of 15 and 50 years old. It is unusual in girls who have not yet begun their periods and in older women after menopause. What are the symptoms of vaginal thrush? The most common symptoms are itchiness,

What is the contraceptive vaginal ring? The vaginal ring is a form of contraception (birth control). It’s a soft plastic ring that you put into your vagina. It releases the same hormones as the contraceptive pill to prevent pregnancy. The vaginal ring can also help control your periods. It’s sometimes called a ‘birth control ring’. NuvaRing is the only type of vaginal ring available in Australia. You need a prescription from your doctor to get the vaginal ring. The contraceptive vaginal ring (birth control ring) is self-inserted and should be removed after 3 weeks. How does the vaginal ring work? The vaginal ring

What is a vaginal hysterectomy? A vaginal hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb) and cervix (neck of your womb) through your vagina. It is possible also to remove your ovaries but they will usually be left alone. What are the benefits of surgery? The womb and surrounding structures. There are common reasons for having a hysterectomy: Heavy or painful periods. Fibroids, where part of the muscle of your womb becomes overgrown. Uterine prolapse, where your womb drops down. A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods. Are there any alternatives to a vaginal hysterectomy? Symptoms

Vaginal dryness can be problem for women at all ages, but it is more common in older women, particularly after menopause. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to relieve vaginal dryness. What is vaginal dryness? Vaginal dryness is when the normal moisture is missing from the vagina. It is a common problem that causes burning, itching, pain or lack of lubrication during sex. Any woman can be affected by vaginal dryness, although it is most common in women who have experienced the menopause. It affects over half of women aged after menopause. Around a quarter of women in

Every woman has some vaginal discharge. It is normal and needed: it keeps your vulva and vagina moist and keeps infections away. This is because normal vaginal discharge is slightly acidic, which repels germs. Normal vaginal discharge is mainly a combination of dead cells and vaginal bacteria. Normal discharge will change in appearance throughout your cycle. What is normal vaginal discharge? Typical vaginal discharge does not have an offensive smell and does not cause any irritation. It’s quite likely that you won’t even know you have any discharge until you see some in your underwear. It is usually clear or

What is vaginal bleeding? Most females experience vaginal bleeding each month during their menstrual periods. Periods last an average of 5 days, but can last for up to 8 days. Bleeding from the vagina is also possible at other times. If you notice blood coming from your vagina at other times, or you are bleeding during your period in a way which makes you concerned, you should see your doctor. When can vaginal bleeding happen? Vaginal bleeding is usually due to periods, but can also happen at other times. Periods So-called ‘normal’ vaginal bleeding varies widely and can be different for

Irritation of the vulva and vagina is quite common and most women will experience it at least once in their lives. There is delicate skin around the groin, vulva and inside the vagina, making these areas vulnerable to a wide range of conditions that can cause irritation. (Vulva is the general name given to the external parts of the female genitals.) What causes vulva and vagina irritation? Many things can cause irritation including: an imbalance of the bacteria and microorganisms that normally live inside the vagina lubricants and spermicides and latex products used during sex, such as condoms Bartholin’s cysts

What is vaccination? Vaccination is a way to protect yourself against certain infections. Vaccines contain tiny amounts of dead or weakened viruses, bacteria, or other substances that help your immune system prepare to fight a future infection. Vaccination is safe and effective and is especially important when travelling. Why should I get vaccinated before I travel? Many infectious diseases are uncommon in Australia, due to widespread vaccination and other public health measures. This is not the case in many other countries. Travelling can expose you to infectious diseases that are very rare in Australia. These infections can cause serious illness, even in people who are usually fit

What is vaccination? A vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect your body from specific diseases before you come into contact with them. It helps your body’s natural defence system, your immune system, to become stronger and resistant to specific diseases and infections. You can have a vaccine by needle or liquid drops into your mouth by a doctor, a nurse, or sometimes a pharmacist. Before vaccines become available in Australia, they need strict medical testing and must pass the approval processes of the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). This includes checking every ingredient in the vaccine for safety, quality and effectiveness. How does

Who is eligible for COVID-19 vaccination? You are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination if you are: aged 5 years or older; or aged 6 months to 4 years with severe immunocompromise, complex or several multiple health conditions, or disability with complex or significant health needs, increasing the risk of severe COVID-19 If you are in one of these groups, check the guidelines below to see if you should get vaccinated against COVID-19 at this time. Booking your vaccination Use the Service Finder to book your COVID vaccination or booster. Need help finding a service? Use our guided search to find a COVID-19 vaccine clinic. Primary doses Primary

  Immunisation and vaccinations for your child How does immunisation work? Immunisation protects against infectious (contagious) disease. Your body’s immune system responds to each vaccine to protect you from a specific disease, and to reduce your chance of becoming sick from the disease in the future. Once your child is vaccinated for a specific disease, they are immune to that disease if they come into contact with someone who has it. Vaccines use either inactive or weakened viruses to make your body believe it has already been infected with the disease. Your body’s immune system makes specific antibodies (special proteins that can fight