posting_anonymously

Hello- A little bit about myself: I am a 30 year old female, married for 4 years. According to my gynecologist, it is difficult to determine when I contracted HSV. This is the first time I have had a noticible outbreak. However, she is not convinced this it my first bout. I am pleasantly surprised with the difference a few days of acyclovir has made. I am able to tolerate the pain and discomfort much easier, which is helping my emotional state as well. I have also been seeing a therapist regularly for over a year which has strengthened my coping skills. I feel like I’m already, slowly, accepting my diagnosis. Each day gets easier. I am able to openly talk about it with close friends and my husband, without shame or guilt. I certainly am lucky to have a great support system, this forum included, which has given me knowledge and guidance and hope for the future. Here is my question: I have tested negative for BV, yeast, chlaymida and gonorrhea. Still, I am having difficulty controlling the odor associated with thick, white to yellow, vaginal discharge. I am wearing cotton undergarments, which I change every 2-3 hours as my schedule allows. Still, I find it difficult to commit to social situations which may hinder my ability to change, and have fear that it could lead to an embarrassing situation. I have had a few instances where my discharge has leaked through my undergarment, to my clothing, which was noticeably pungent. Does anyone have any suggestions on calming the odor? I do use a bulb srynge with room temperature water to flush the outside of my vagina, and shower regularly, using the shower head to cleanse throughly. I am also having difficult keeping the areas dry, which is definitely adding to the problem. It is making me self conscious and causing anxiety. I do not want to put my life on hold for weeks at a time, if I can help it. I do not want to use anything that may hurt my fragile skin or hinder the healing process. Thank you you in advance.