Vaginal Discharge is a normal thing to happen in all females because of hormonal changes leading to secretions from the glands in the cervix and vagina. It is not that a female is completely dry all the time. However, one is often confused about what is normal and what is abnormal, and when is the time to visit a Gynaecologist.
The Checklist for Normal and Abnormal
Colour – Normal discharge is clear, but if it turns yellowish or shows vaginal discharge blood, then it is considered abnormal. Changes in vaginal discharge color should never be ignored.
Quantity – The amount of discharge may vary from woman to woman. Vaginal discharge before period is common and often increases during the ovulation phase. Many women also experience vaginal discharge in pregnancy and even vaginal discharge early pregnancy due to hormonal changes. In some cases, vaginal discharge watery in nature may be noticed.
Smell –A healthy vaginal discharge will not have a odour.
Wetness – Slight wetness is normal, but excess wetness, especially vaginal discharge that is watery, may indicate an underlying issue.
When to Worry?
- If there is a sudden increase in the quantity of discharge, frequent change of undergarments is needed
- If the colour of discharge changes from white to yellow, green, reddish or appears as vaginal discharge blood
- There is a bad odour
- There is associated itching
- Your partner also starts developing symptoms
Why does abnormal discharge happen?
Understanding the vaginal discharge reason helps in early treatment and prevention of complications.
- 1. Watery, white discharge with itchiness:
A cottage cheese-like discharge with slight smell may indicate a vaginal discharge yeast infection.
- 2. Green, yellow, frothy discharge:
This type of discharge is commonly linked to infections and can be treated with proper vaginal discharge treatment using prescribed antibiotics.
- 3. Grey or white fish-smelling discharge:
A strong fish odour, especially after sex accompanied by a grey-coloured discharge is a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV). It is common, a result of an imbalance in the normal vaginal bacterial population, and is not sexually transmitted. It may go away on its own or may require a dose of antibiotics.
- 4. Discharge with pain or bleeding:
Abnormal discharge with pain during urination or sex, or vaginal discharge blood, can indicate serious infections and should be addressed with urgent vaginal discharge treatment.
- 5. Abnormal discharge with blisters around genitals:
This is a sign of genital herpes, which is treated with antivirals that stop the virus from multiplying further.
How to prevent abnormal vaginal discharge?
To prevent abnormal discharge, it is important to keep yourself dry at all times. Many women search for vaginal discharge home remedies, but medical guidance is recommended for safe and effective vaginal discharge treatment. Fungal infections usually occur in damp environments, so always wear dry undergarments. Practicing safe, protected sex can reduce the vaginal discharge reason linked to sexually transmitted infections. Avoid using vaginal washes or douching unless your doctor advises, as this disturbs the natural pH balance.
Doctor Profile
Dr Amita Shah is a leading gynaecologist in Gurgaon with vast experience in treating all major and minor female problems. She is the founder of ‘Global Women Clinic’ in Palam Vihar, Gurgaon. For more information or an appointment with Dr Amita Shah please call 9773975611
