Abnormal vaginal discharge: Causes, symptoms and treatment

Vaginal discharge is a normal bodily function that helps maintain vaginal health by removing old cells and keeping the area moist. However, there are times when discharge can become abnormal, which might signal an underlying health condition.

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What is Abnormal Vaginal Discharge?

Abnormal vaginal discharge refers to a change in the color, consistency, odor, or amount of the discharge from the vagina. Normal discharge is usually clear or white, with no strong odor. However, when there’s an alteration, it might indicate an infection or another health issue.

Common Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Several factors can cause changes in vaginal discharge, including:

1. Infections:

   • Bacterial vaginosis (BV): This condition results from an imbalance in the normal bacteria of the vagina. The discharge might be thin and grayish with a fishy odor.
   • Yeast infections: These cause thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge accompanied by itching and burning.
   • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis can cause yellow, green, or cloudy discharge with a foul smell.

2. Hormonal changes:

   • Pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause can cause fluctuations in the vaginal environment, leading to changes in discharge.

3. Foreign objects:

   • Forgotten tampons or contraceptive devices left in the vagina can lead to an infection and cause abnormal discharge.

4. Medications:

   • Antibiotics or birth control pills may alter the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina.

5. Poor hygiene or douching:

   • Washing inside the vagina can disrupt its natural environment and lead to infections.

Symptoms of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

• Color change: Discharge may turn yellow, green, brown, or cloudy.
• Consistency change: Discharge may become thicker, curd-like, or frothy.
• Odor: A strong, foul, or fishy smell can accompany abnormal discharge.
• Associated symptoms: Itching, irritation, burning during urination, or pain during intercourse often accompany infections that cause abnormal discharge.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

• The discharge has a foul odor, is yellow or green, or is accompanied by itching, burning, or irritation.
• You experience pain during urination or intercourse.
• There is an unusual increase in the amount of discharge.
• You suspect an STI.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A healthcare provider will usually perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of the discharge for testing to determine the cause. Treatment depends on the diagnosis:

• Bacterial vaginosis: Treated with antibiotics.
• Yeast infections: Antifungal medications in cream or pill form.
• STIs: Antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the type of infection.

Preventing Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

• Practice good hygiene: Regular washing with mild soap and water.
• Avoid douching: It can disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria.
• Wear breathable cotton underwear: Helps reduce moisture buildup.
• Practice safe sex: Use condoms to prevent STIs.

Understanding abnormal vaginal discharge is key to recognizing when something is wrong and seeking appropriate medical care. Vaginal hygiene is important to deal with other non-infectious discharges.

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