Vaginal Discharge: Causes and Treatment

While most discharge is normal, changes in color, odor, or texture may indicate a vaginal infection discharge, which requires medical attention.

Types of Vaginal Discharge

Red

• Start or end of a period
• Cervical infection
• Cervical polyp
• Endometrial or cervical cancer

Pink

• Light cervical bleeding
• Vaginal irritation
• Implantation bleeding (early sign of pregnancy)

White

• Normal, healthy discharge
• Possible fungal infection (if thick and itchy)

Yellow-Green

• May indicate a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as trichomoniasis

Clear

• Healthy discharge
• Common during pregnancy or ovulation
• Can be due to hormonal changes or imbalances

Common Causes of Vaginal Discharge

• Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, ovulation)
• Sexual arousal
• Menstruation cycle phases
• Use of birth control or antibiotics
• Vaginal infections (yeast, bacterial vaginosis, STIs)
• Poor hygiene or douching
• Underlying medical conditions like diabetes

Conditions that Cause Vaginal Discharge

• Cervicitis
• Vaginal Atrophy (Atrophic Vaginitis)
• Foreign body in the vagina (e.g., retained tampon)
• Bartholin's gland cyst or abscess
• Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis (DIV)
• Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (chronic or recurrent)
• Allergic reactions or irritants (e.g., soaps, latex)
• Cervical or vaginal cancer
• Lichen Sclerosus or Lichen Planus

What Infections Cause Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge can result from various infections, including:

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Caused by an imbalance in vaginal bacteria, leading to a thin, grayish discharge with a fishy odor.
• Yeast Infections (Candidiasis): Triggered by Candida overgrowth, causing thick, white discharge with itching or burning.
• Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection (STI) causing yellow-green, frothy discharge with a strong smell.
• Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: Common STIs that may cause abnormal, yellowish discharge.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Often a complication of untreated STIs, leading to foul-smelling discharge.

Related Symptoms of Vaginal Discharge

• Itching or burning sensation
• Pain during urination
• Vaginal irritation or rash
• Unusual odor (fishy or foul-smelling)
• Pain during intercourse
• Bleeding between periods
• Frothy, cottage cheese-like, or thick discharge
• Fatigue or general unwell feeling
• Sores or blisters in vaginal area

Is It Normal to Have White Discharge Every Day?

Yes, it's normal for many women to experience white vaginal discharge daily. This is typically a sign of healthy vaginal function, as it helps clean and maintain balance. However, suppose the discharge has an unusual smell, a thick cottage cheese-like texture, or causes itching or irritation. In that case, it may indicate an infection like a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.

Vaginal Discharge Smells

Vaginal discharge smells can indicate health issues. A fishy odour often points to bacterial vaginosis, while a yeasty smell suggests a yeast infection. Foul or rotten odours may signal infections like trichomoniasis or a forgotten tampon. A metallic smell is typical during menstruation. A doctor should check sudden changes in smell.

How to Get Rid of Vaginal Smell?

To reduce vaginal odor:

• Hygiene: Clean with gentle, unscented soap and lukewarm water.
• Wearing Breathable Fabrics: Use cotton-related underwear for moisture trapping.
• Do not Douching: It upsets the natural balance.
• Water: Flushes the body.
• Probiotic: Maintaining normal vaginal flora.

If the smell continues or is accompanied by weird discharge, see a doctor to rule out 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.

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.

Diagnosis and Tests

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.

Treatment and Management

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).

Prevention of Vaginal Discharge

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.

Home Remedies for Vaginal Discharge

Abnormal vaginal discharge can be treated with the help of simple home remedies:

• Tea Tree oil: Has strong antifungal properties. Always mix it with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) before applying.
• Natural Yogurt: A natural probiotic that restores healthy bacteria in the body. Eating one serving daily may help fight harmful bacteria and balance the vaginal environment.
• Coconut Oil: Fights yeast infections with antifungal effects. Use raw organic coconut oil on the affected area, or use it as a base for essential oils like tea tree 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: Boil 1 tablespoon of seeds in 500ml of water until it reduces to half. Cool and drink to help with white discharge.
• Coriander Seeds: Soak overnight, strain in the morning, and drink on an empty stomach. It's an easy and safe remedy.
• Tulsi: It is Known for its healing properties. Grind with water, add a bit of honey, and drink twice a day. You can also mix it with milk.

Lifestyle Changes for Vaginal Discharge

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in probiotics and low in sugar.
• Stay hydrated and manage stress levels.
• Practice safe sex and limit the number of sexual partners.
• Avoid tight-fitting synthetic underwear.
• Get regular gynecological check-ups.
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotics which can disrupt vaginal flora.