Usually, vaginal discharge is a normal and regular occurrence in females. In most of the cases, the women do not need to even worry about anything. In fact, vaginal discharge plays an important role in the functioning of a female’s reproductive system and prevents infections. Vaginal discharge is made by the glans inside the vagina and cervix, and it serves the purpose of flushing out the dead cells and bacteria, and keeping the vagina clean and healthy.
However, there are certain types of vaginal discharge that may occur due to infections. If the color, odor, or consistency of your vaginal discharge seems fairly different than normal, and is also accompanied with other symptoms such as vaginal itching or burning, it may be a sign of vaginal infection or other health issues. In such cases, you should consult a gynaecologist for timely diagnosis and treatment of the abnormal vaginal discharge to avoid further complications.
Different Types Of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
A female should identify different types of vaginal discharges and understands which one is harmful. There are several different types of vaginal discharge that can be based on their color and consistency.
Clear Vaginal Discharge
Clear and watery vaginal discharge is absolutely normal. It may occur any time of the month. If your vaginal discharge is clear but stretchy, then it is normal and indicates that you are ovulating.
Clear & White Vaginal Discharge
Clear and transparent vaginal discharge is considered as normal and it does not cause pain or uncomfortable sensation in the vaginal area. You do not need to worry at all if you notice clear and white discharge in your underwear. Usually, this discharge can occur between the period cycle of a female and a small amount of white discharge is normal. However, if this discharge is accompanied with itching or pain and has a thick, cottage and cheese-like consistency, then it may be the sign of yeast infection. In this case, you should meet a gynaecologist right away.
Milky White Vaginal Discharge
Thick and milky white vaginal discharge is also known as leukorrhea, which is normal to have at the beginning or end of the menstrual cycle. At the time of ovulation, this discharge may have a very thick and milky white appearance. If there is no pain, itching, burning sensation while urinating, pain during sexual intercourse or rashes due to the discharge, then it is considered as absolutely normal. However, if it is accompanied by abnormal symptoms which are mentioned above, you need to consult with a gynaecologist immediately.
Brown Or Bloody Vaginal Discharge
Usually, this type of discharge comes after the periods. When the periods are over, the female may experience light red or brown vaginal discharge. In between periods, a female may also experience bloody discharge that is referred to as spotting. If a woman experiences red or brown vaginal discharge after having unprotected sex, then it can be an earliest sign of pregnancy, also known as implantation bleeding. But in some of the rare cases, brown or bloody vaginal discharge can also be associated with cervical cancer or other conditions such as fibroids or other abnormal growths.
Green Vaginal Discharge
Sexual transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis is the most common cause of green vaginal discharge. You should report to a well qualified gynaecologist if you experience green vaginal discharge with a foul smelling. Pain while urinating, itching in and around the vagina, pain during sexual intercourse and foul smelling of vagina are some of the most common symptoms of sexually transmitted infections.
Treatment Of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Book an appointment with a gynaecologist as soon as possible if you have abnormal vaginal discharge accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, itching, or burning sensation. Changes in vaginal discharge during pregnancy should be monitored and discussed with the gynaecologist in case if you have other symptoms along with it.
After performing a general examination, the gynaecologist can determine if you are suffering from abnormal vaginal discharge. The severity and type of infection can also be determined by the gynaecologist after proper diagnosis. Then, depending on the severity of the infection, the most suitable treatment is recommended.
The treatment of abnormal vaginal discharge also depends on the causes of the problem, like yeast infections are treated with antifungal medications. Bacterial vaginosis can be treated with antibiotic pills and cream, and trichomoniasis can be treated with metronidazole.
Apart from all these, you should keep the vagina clean by washing it regularly with gentle, mild shop and warm water. Avoid the use of scented shops and feminine products or douche. Make sure that you wear cotton undergarments and avoid tight clothes. Also, you should always wipe from the front to back to avoid bacteria getting into the vagina, causing infection.