Problem 'down there'

[funnyfanjo]

Have namechanged for this as it's rather embarrassing. For years now I've had a problem where if I wear black or dark knickers then I bleach the gusset. Recently though, I keep finding little holes where the gusset is bleached. My discharge is strong enough to burn holes in my knickers! I'm assuming it's me and not just that I buy cheap multipack knickers.

Also, I've always had a very strong smell - it's a kind of chlorine-y smell, and it makes me self conscious. However, a couple of days ago I ate fish for the first time in years and now I have a very strong fishy smell down there. Is this normal or does it sound like an infection? I wear 100% cotton knickers and haven't had any itching or funny looking discharge.

I'm a bit confused about the washing thing. I use femfresh on the 'outside' bit - ie where I'm covered with hair. Are you supposed to wash inside the labia? I never do this so wondered if that' where I'm going wrong.

Me and OH have both had STD tests years ago which were negative so it's not that. Would an STD clinic be able to test for things like BV? I'd feel a lot better talking to them about it than my old man GP.

You're not alone on this one, I've had several conversations with friends and it's quite common. I always use pantyliners as I hate the stains marks I never use anything other than water 'down there', it's not necessary and with me it guarantees a dose of thrush . The inside is self cleaning like most body cavities (think ears/nose). An STD clinic would definitely check for BV. There's an over the counter remedy for that now too.

Thank you. I'll give the over the counter treatment a go. Hopefully I can avoid a trip to the GP.