Abnormal Vaginal Discharge (Leucorrhoea)
Vaginal discharge in women
What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge is the liquid or mucus that comes from the vagina. It is made up of cells from the vagina and cervix, bacteria, mucus, and water. It is a common concern among women, and is one of the most common causes for gynecological visit.
Can vaginal discharge be normal?
Yes. Small amount of vaginal discharge in between the periods is considered as normal. One-half to one teaspoon (2 to 5 mL) of white or clear, thick, mucus-like, and mostly odorless vaginal discharge daily is considered as normal. The amount of vaginal discharge can vary from woman to woman and from time to time. Usually the amount of normal vaginal discharge increases:
- During pregnancy
- While using birth control pills
- During ovulation
When is vaginal discharge abnormal?
Vaginal discharge is abnormal when it is associated with the following symptoms:
- Itching in and around the vagina
- Redness, pain, or swelling around the vagina
- Foamy, greenish-yellow or curdy discharge
- Foul smell
- Pain during urinating or having sex
- Pain in the lower part of the belly
- Fever
What are the causes of abnormal vaginal discharge?
The most common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge are:
- An infection in the vagina, cervix, or uterus
- A reaction to foreign body in the vagina such as a tampon or condom
- A reaction to soap or other product
- Changes in the body that occur after menopause
Should I treat abnormal vaginal discharge myself?
No. Self-medication is not recommended as this may lead to worsening of your symptoms. You should always visit a qualified gynecologist for all your problems related to female reproductive system. He or she will also take a sample of your vaginal discharge to look for an infection.
How is abnormal vaginal discharge treated?
Treatment depends on the cause of the abnormal vaginal discharge. That’s why a proper gynecological examination is advised before treatment.
In certain types of infections, simultaneous treatment of both male and female partners is recommended. Sexually transmitted infections include chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis and yeast. In bacterial vaginosis, the sexual partner does not need treatment. It is advisable to avoid having intercourse until the treatment is completed.
Can abnormal vaginal discharge be prevented?
Sometimes you can help prevent abnormal vaginal discharge by following simple steps:
- Using warm water and unscented non-soap cleanser to wash your private parts.
- Not using sprays or powders on your vagina
- Not douching (douching is when a lady puts a liquid inside her vagina to rinse it out)
- Not wiping with baby wipes or scented toilet paper after you use the toilet
Summary
Abnormal Vaginal Discharge is a common form of disease that indicates infection. The discharge may be yellow or white or brown in color and can be mucus like. Bacterial infection or yeast is said to cause the vaginal discharge.
It may occur due to sexual transmission or due to the overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida. The vaginal discharge is common in the age between 15 and 44. At times, the vaginal discharge can occur due to steroid use, birth control pills, diabetes, pelvic infection, and others. Dr. MayuriKothiwala suggests proper diagnosis & treatment both available at her clinic to prevent the repeated occurrence of the discharge.
Dr. Mayuri Kothiwala
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