It can be difficult to distinguish particular intimate symptoms. So if in doubt, refer to your pharmacist. Remember that customers may prefer to discuss symptoms in the privacy of a consultation room.

• Dryness: vaginal dryness can affect women of any age, but is more common during and after the menopause. Symptoms include itching, burning and pain inside or around the vagina, as well as pain during sexual intercourse (sometimes with bleeding). In addition, there may be urinary symptoms (symptoms associated with going for a wee) such as increased urgency, pain and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Thrush: is a common infection caused by yeast (Candida albicans). If the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina changes, the yeast can thrive and cause thrush symptoms, such as itching and a thick, white odourless discharge. There may be a stinging feeling on urination and the skin in the area might be red and inflamed. Thrush can be more common after a course of antibiotics, in women with diabetes and in pregnant women. Men can also be affected.
• Cystitis: is an inflammation of the bladder. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection, but can be caused by irritation. Symptoms include needing to urinate frequently, pain/stinging on urination, dark or cloudy urine and feeling generally unwell. It often resolves by itself within a few days, but it causes discomfort.
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV): is another common condition that occurs as a result of the balance of bacteria in the vagina being changed. Symptoms include a vaginal discharge that might be thinner and watery, grey/white in colour and develop a strong fishy smell. Many women with BV may not have any symptoms.