Itchy vagina with smelly discharge

Dear Counsellor:

For some time now, I have been having intense itching before my period. My tummy hurts badly during and after the period. I also have a smelly discharge from my vagina. I wonder if that could be a disease. My husband is a wild man but I make sure to tell him to use condom when he goes outside the home. Can you tell me what could be the cause for the itching and discharge?

Faithful Wife

Dear Faithful Wife:

From what you describe it is highly possible that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI). You need to visit a doctor immediately to be correctly diagnosed and treated. If you are diagnosed with a STI your husband and all other partners must be treated so that the infection can be controlled and re-infection prevented. You may also want to consider using a condom. You must take the personal responsibility of protecting yourself. You cannot guarantee that your husband is using condoms when he has sex "outside of the home" although you told him to do so. You have to think seriously about your sexual health, let it be your responsibility to protect it.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-4444.