Hi

Thanks for your query.

You are having thick white discharge from the genitals which in females can surely be a cause of concern.
Now as you have told , you used to have itching alongside.
A white thick discharge from the vagina can lead us to various diagnosis. It is also important to know if you are sexually active as we need to be cautious in ruling out various STD's especially in sexually active females.
As far as the commonest cause for such a presentation is concerned, vulval and vaginal candidiasis is the most commonly seen problem in females of your age group.
This is a fungal infection involving the female genitals. It's most common presentation is in the form of a thick white curdy discharge from the vagina. It can be associated with itching. Such infections are common post menstrual bleeding and in people on antibiotics. Also it can be sexually transmitted from the partner.
But the good thing is that it is an easily treatable condition. Both oral and topical antifungals have to be given for the same. Sometimes even vaginal pessaries are prescribed.
It is also important that you follow certain precautions.
Keep the genitals clean and dry.
Do not apply any kind of oils or moisturizing creams.
Wear cotton undergarments so as to reduce sweating.

Now your second concern is regarding pigmentation in the groin.
Now the skin color of groin is mostly determined by one's genes. So it is a combination of both external and XXXXXXX factors. Any kind of infection in the groin region can surely lead to increased pigmentation. With the use of topical agents, some degree of improvement in the skin color can however be achieved.

But as of now, since you have an active infection, so I would recommend you not to use any lightening agents in the area.


Hope it helps.

If you have any other query, please let me know.

Dr Geetika Paul.

---

Hi

See once the infection completely settles, you can start using a mild lightening agent.
The skin over the groin is very thin and sensitive, so very strong agents are not used in this area.
Mild lightening agents containing kojic acid and vitamin c can be applied to the area twice a day.
These are non steroidal agents.
Using steroids in the groin can lead to repeated episodes of fungal and various other infections, so steroids should be avoided as far as possible.
Also oral vitamin C supplementation can be taken.
A diet XXXXXXX in vitamins and antioxidants is also useful. So try to include more fresh fruits and salads in your diet. Citrus fruits in particular are really useful.

Hope it helps

Dr Geetika Paul.

---

Hi,

In case of fungal infection of groin extending to the buttocks, you need to apply topical antifungal creams for atleast 2-3 weeks, depending upon the complete healing of the skin lesions.
As far as antifungal powders are concerned, they are used only prophylactically to prevent the recurrence of infection once complete healing takes place.

Oral antifungals if taken along with the topical therapy help to hasten the process of healing.

Dr Geetika Paul

---