vaginal-discharge-what-s-normal-and-what-s-not

WOMENS SEXUAL HEALTH / Vaginal Discharge: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Vaginal Discharge: What’s Normal and What’s Not

What is Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a fluid produced by the cervix and vaginal walls to keep the vagina clean and prevent infections. It plays an essential role in maintaining vaginal health by flushing out bacteria, dead cells, and other impurities.

What is Considered Normal Vaginal Discharge?
(I) Colour and Consistency
Normal vaginal discharge can range in colour from clear to milky white. The texture may change throughout the menstrual cycle:
1. Before and after menstruation: It may appear thick, sticky, or slightly white.
2. During ovulation: Discharge becomes clear, slippery, and stretchy, resembling egg whites, which helps sperm travel more easily.
3. After ovulation: It may turn slightly thicker and whiter as progesterone levels rise.
4. During pregnancy: Some women experience an increase in discharge, which is typically white or milky.

(II)Odour
Normal discharge usually has a mild, slightly musky scent or no noticeable odour at all. A strong or unpleasant smell may indicate an imbalance or infection.

(III)Amount
The quantity of discharge varies from person to person and can be influenced by hormonal fluctuations, sexual activity, pregnancy, and contraceptive use. Some women naturally produce more discharge than others, which is generally not a cause for concern.

Characteristics of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Abnormal vaginal discharge often signals an underlying health concern, such as an infection, hormonal imbalance, or irritation. Recognising the warning signs can help in seeking timely medical attention.
(I) Changes in Colour
Normal discharge is typically clear or white, but abnormal discharge may appear:
- Yellow or green: Often associated with bacterial infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like trichomoniasis. Green discharge, in particular, may be accompanied by a foul smell.
- Grey: A common sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), often accompanied by a fishy odour.
- Thick, white, and clumpy (cottage cheese-like): Indicates a yeast infection, usually with itching and irritation.
- Brown or bloody (unrelated to menstruation): Could result from irregular periods, hormonal imbalances, or, in rare cases, conditions like cervical polyps, infections, or even cervical cancer.
(II) Unusual Consistency and Texture
- Foamy or frothy discharge: A key symptom of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection.
- Excessively thick or clumpy: Suggests a fungal infection, such as a yeast infection.
- Watery or thin with an unpleasant odour: Common in bacterial vaginosis and certain STIs.
- Sticky or mucous-like with an unusual colour: May be a sign of cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix).

(III) Strong or Foul Odour
Normal discharge has either no scent or a mild, musky odour. A strong, unpleasant, or fishy smell is often associated with infections like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. If the odour worsens after intercourse, it may indicate an imbalance in vaginal bacteria.

Common Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
(I) Infections
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
- Yeast Infection (Candidiasis)
- Trichomoniasis
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

(II) Hormonal Imbalances
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Birth Control Use

(III) Poor Hygiene or Irritants
- Douching and Harsh Soaps
- Scented Hygiene Products
- Tight or Non-Breathable Clothing

(IV) Cervical or Uterine Conditions
- Cervical Polyps or Erosion
- Endometriosis
- Cervical or Vaginal Cancer

Tips for Maintaining Vaginal Health
Keeping the vaginal area clean and balanced is essential for overall reproductive health. Simple habits can help prevent infections and maintain comfort.

1. Practise Proper Hygiene
2. Avoid Harsh Products
3. Practise Safe Sex
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet
5. Choose the Right Clothing
6. Monitor Hormonal Changes