Let’s talk about the other infections.

The ones no one ever warned you about.

The ones that aren’t STIs, but still mess up your vibe, your weekend plans, and your pH.

We’re talking non-sexual infections the sneaky, under-discussed, misunderstood body curveballs like:

• UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections)

• Yeast infections (Thrush)

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

• Fungal skin infections

• Pelvic inflammatory conditions not caused by sex

And here’s the truth:

You don’t have to be sexually active to experience any of these.

You just have to be human… and have a body that sweats, wears jeans, sits too long, or wipes the wrong way.

Let’s break it down.

Yeast Infections Aren’t Just “A Sex Thing”

Thrush (aka a yeast infection) happens when Candida albicans a fungus that already lives in your body that overgrows. This can be triggered by:

• Antibiotics

• Stress

• Hormonal changes

• Tight, non-breathable clothing

• Sitting in wet gym clothes or swimsuits too long

• Harsh soaps or scented products

Common symptoms include:

• Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge

• Itching and irritation around the vagina

• Redness and swelling of the vulva

• Burning sensation, especially during urination or sex

You’re not “dirty.” You’re not “doing too much.” Your body’s just sensitive, not broken.

UTIs Can Happen Just From Holding Your Pee Too Long

We wish this was a joke.

But seriously, not emptying your bladder regularly, not drinking enough water, or wiping back to front can introduce bacteria into your urinary tract and next thing you know, you’re peeing fire.

And yes, while sex can contribute to UTIs, plenty of people have had them with zero sexual activity involved.

Common symptoms include:

• Burning or pain while peeing• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

• Feeling like you need to pee constantly

• Lower abdominal pain or pressure

Pro tip? Pee when you need to. Wipe front to back. Stay hydrated.

And no, cranberry juice isn’t a cure, but it won’t hurt either.

Bacterial Vaginosis Can Be Triggered by Scented Products

BV is caused by an imbalance in your vaginal bacteria, and unfortunately, that floral-scented soap that smells like lavender dreams?

Yeah, it might be the villain.

Your vagina is self-cleaning. It doesn’t need a scented squad to do its job.

If anything, it needs less interference. Warm water on the outside. That’s it.

Common symptoms include:

• Thin, grayish-white discharge

• Strong “fishy” odour, especially after sex

• Burning during urination

• Mild vaginal irritation or itching

Antibiotics Can Wipe Out The Good Guys Too

You might need antibiotics for something totally unrelated (like a tooth infection or chest cold), but they can also kill off the good bacteria in your gut and vagina leading to yeast infections or BV.

How to reduce the risk:

• Support your gut health with probiotics

• Eat yoghurt (if you’re not dairy-sensitive)

• Monitor your symptoms closely after completing antibiotic treatment

Underwear Matters (A Lot)

Synthetic materials that don’t breathe can trap moisture and heat a perfect playground for bacteria and yeast.

Pro tip:

Choose cotton undies when you can, and go commando at night if you’re comfy with it.

Let your vagina breathe!

So Why Didn’t Anyone Teach Us This?

Because comprehensive body literacy isn’t a part of most school curriculums.

Because people still think all vaginal or pelvic infections are caused by sex.

Because shame and silence have been used to “protect” us… but instead, they’ve left us in the dark.

My babe, it’s 2025. We’re done with that.

Learning about your body shouldn’t be something you do in secret at 27 because of a weird discharge… that you had to Google.

It should be loud, proud, and on your terms.

With love (and cramps),

The Sheba Team

Inclusive. Honest. Slightly unhinged.