Understanding Vaginal Discharge: Causes and Treatment
Vaginal discharge is a mixture of fluid and cells in the vagina that ranges from whitish and sticky to clear and watery, possibly associated with an odor. It can have causes that are not due to an underlying disease, such as menstruation, intercourse, or certain hygienic methods like douches and bidets.
This discharge is a combination of fluid, cells, and microorganisms that lubricate and guard the vagina. It is constantly produced by cells inside the vagina and cervix and exits the body via the vaginal opening.
Although vaginal discharge is a normal process in menstruating women, it may start a few months before your teen period begins and generally decreases after menopause. However, candidiasis or bacterial infections usually cause abnormal discharge. If you notice any unusual or foul-smelling discharge, visit a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
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Regular Discharge
The glands of the vagina and cervix produce small amounts of fluid that leave the body every day and carry away old cells. Normal vaginal discharge varies throughout the menstrual cycle. It is typically clear, white, or slightly yellow, with a mild or odorless smell. The consistency can be thin and watery or thick and sticky, depending on the cycle phase.
For example, during ovulation, discharge may be clear and stretchy, like egg whites, while before a period, it may be thicker and white. Increased discharge is also common during pregnancy. This type of discharge helps keep the vagina clean by removing dead cells and bacteria and provides necessary lubrication.
Things that can upset your vagina's natural pH balance and lead to vaginal infections include:
- Douching
- Feminine hygiene products
- Antibiotics
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
Reasons for Abnormal Discharge
- Changes in color, and consistency (sometimes similar to cottage cheese)
- Itching, discomfort, or rash
- Vaginal burning when urinating
- The presence of blood when it is not the time for your period
- A foul odor accompanied by yellowish, greenish, or greyish-white vaginal discharge
For most people, infections or hormonal imbalances can cause unusual changes in vaginal discharge. Medication may be necessary to address these issues. Sometimes, you might notice brown discharge before your period. This could indicate a bit of blood mixed in and might result from hormone changes or irritation.
However, if you experience brown discharge outside of your expected period, it's essential to consult your doctor. They can determine the cause and ensure that your body is in good health.
Irregular changes in vaginal discharge or other symptoms could signal a reproductive health issue. If you notice such changes, it's best to seek medical advice to rule out any potential problems.
Types of Vaginal Discharge
Causes of Vaginal Discharge
Any changes in the balance of ordinary microorganisms inside the vagina can affect the smell, colour, or texture of the discharge. Here are some things that can upset that balance:
- Use of antibiotics or steroids
- Bacterial vaginosis is a more common bacterial infection in pregnant women or women who have multiple sexual partners.
- Birth control pills
- Cervical cancer
- Chlamydia or gonorrhea , sexually transmitted infections
- Diabetes
- Scented showers, soaps or lotions, bubble bath
- Pelvic infection after surgery
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection that is usually contracted and is caused by unprotected sex
- Vaginal atrophy, the thinning and drying of the vaginal walls during menopause
- Vaginitis irritation in or around the vagina
- Yeast infections
Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, it's normal to experience an increase in vaginal discharge. This extra discharge plays a crucial role in protecting your uterus from infections. The hormone progesterone is responsible for this increased production.
If you notice changes in the color or thickness of your discharge, it's essential to consult your doctor or midwife. They can ensure that everything is normal and address any concerns you might have. Variations in discharge are usually benign, but it's best to get a professional opinion.
Maintaining cleanliness is essential during pregnancy. Wearing comfortable cotton underwear can help manage discharge and prevent irritation. If you have any concerns or notice anything unusual, don't hesitate to seek advice from your healthcare provider.
Diagnosis of Vaginal Discharge
The doctor will start by asking about your medical history and symptoms. Questions can include:
- When did the abnormal discharge start?
- What colour is the discharge?
- Is there an odour?
- Do you have itching, pain, or burning in or around your vagina?
- Do you have more than one sexual partner?
- Do you take a shower?
The doctor may take a sample of the discharge or do a Pap test to collect cells from your cervix for a more detailed exam.
What is the Treatment for Vaginal Discharge?
The treatment you receive will depend on the cause of the problem. For example, yeast infections are usually treated with antifungal medications that are inserted into the vagina as a cream or gel. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotic drugs or creams. Trichomoniasis is normally treated with the drug metronidazole, Flagyl or tinidazole (Tindamax).
Here are some tips to prevent vaginal infections that can lead to abnormal discharge:
- Keep the vagina clean by washing it with mild soap and warm water on the outside. It is not necessary to use soap directly in the vagina.
- Don't use scented soaps and feminine products or douches. Also, avoid feminine sprays and bubble baths.
- After using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina and causing an infection.
- Wear 100% cotton underwear and avoid clothing that is too tight.
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When to Visit a Doctor?
See a physician in case your vaginal discharge has an uncommon scent or appearance. A person should also seek medical attention if they experience vaginal symptoms such as:
- Itching
- Pain or discomfort
- Frothy or cottage cheese-like discharge
- Bleeding between periods or after menopause
- Spotting after sex regularly
- Gray, green, or yellow discharge
- Strong smell from vaginal
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Feeling weak, tired, or unwell
- Fever
- Any sore or blister in the vaginal area
The doctor will perform a pelvic exam. They may also need to collect a discharge sample for testing.
Home Remedies for Vaginal Discharge
Abnormal vaginal discharge can be treated with the help of simple home remedies:
Tea Tree oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antifungal properties. A review of the research on this essential oil confirmed its ability to kill a variety of yeasts and fungi. Tea tree is a crucial oil and must be mixed with a carrier oil.
Natural Yogurt
Yogurt is a natural probiotic, which means it contains a lot of healthy bacteria. Eating yogurt can help bring healthy bacteria back into the body. This helps establish a balanced vaginal environment and could help fight bad bacteria. To get the full benefits, eat one serving of yogurt every day.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antifungal properties that fight fungal yeast. Raw organic coconut oil can be applied internally or externally to relieve symptoms. Heated coconut oil can also be used as a carrier oil for more powerful antifungal essential oils, including tea tree oil or oregano oil.
Clean From Front to Back
After using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from spreading from the anus to the vagina.
Fenugreek Seeds
Taking fenugreek seeds boiled in water can solve the problem of white discharge. You can boil the fenugreek seeds in 500ml of water until the water is reduced by half. Then drink this water when it cools.
Coriander Seeds
Soak some fenugreek seeds in water overnight, strain, and drink it in the morning on an empty stomach. This is one of the simplest and most secure home treatments to deal with white discharge.
Tulsi
Tulsi is one of the common things used in Indian homes. People have been using it for years for its medicinal benefits. You can grind some tulsi with water and add a little honey to it. Take this drink twice a day to eradicate the problem. It can be consumed with milk, too.
