I'm 30 and had my tubes tied at 23 due to a molar pregnancy. Ever since then I have had a problem with yeast infections. Every time I turn around I get one. I don't take a lot of baths, mostly showers, so I don't think that is the problem. I have tried over-the-counter medicines and they don't work. Could there be something else wrong with me? I haven't had a Pap smear in three years, and I'm kind of afraid to find out that there is something really wrong.

--Linda

Not all vaginal irritations are yeast infections. Bacterial infections, sensitivities to soaps or detergents or spermicides or even condoms, and skin conditions including precancerous or cancerous changes may all produce itching and burning. Medical problems like diabetes and AIDS increase the risk of recurrent and often hard-to-treat yeast infections. If one course of an over-the-counter medication does not help, or if the symptoms keep coming back, it is time to see the doctor.

Not having a Pap smear for three years is not smart. Pap smears can detect problems very early, when they can be easily treated. Things ignored because of misplaced fear may progress to the point where they can no longer be treated. Regular visits to a gynecologist are a wonderful opportunity to practice health maintenance -- making sure everything is okay and keeping it that way. It is much easier and more effective to prevent a problem than it is to deal with it once it has happened.

Please call and make an appointment with a gynecologist today. Most likely you have a simple bacterial infection or chemical sensitivity that can be easily treated once diagnosed, plus you can get that very important Pap smear, breast exam and general physical that we gynecologists can offer.