It is the fluid that comes from the vagina. Vaginal discharge, It is usually white or transparent. It cleans the vagina and keeps it moist. It can increase with hormonal changes. It is common during ovulation and premenstrual period. If it is odorless and colorless, it is normal. If it is colored, smelly or itchy, it can be a sign of infection. It can vary from woman to woman. It should be monitored regularly. If necessary, a doctor should be consulted.
What are the symptoms of vaginal discharge?
Yellow, green or gray discharge is usually a sign of infection. Brown or bloody discharge may indicate bleeding outside of your period or a problem with your uterus. Foul-smelling discharge, especially a fishy odor, may be a sign of bacterial vaginosis or a trichomonas infection. A cheesy or frothy discharge is usually a sign of a yeast infection or a parasitic infection. Vaginal discharge accompanied by itching, burning or irritation is a sign of infection.
Discharge accompanied by pain during sexual intercourse or urination may be a sign of infection or sexually transmitted diseases. Discharge that is more than normal and continuous may be due to hormonal changes or may be a sign of infection. If one or more of these symptoms are present, it is important to see a gynecologist to determine the underlying cause. Vaginal discharge The type, duration and accompanying symptoms are decisive for correct diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Vaginal Discharge?
It is a natural defense and cleansing mechanism of the body. Especially during ovulation, before menstruation and during sexual arousal, the discharge may increase due to the effect of hormones. This type of discharge is usually clear, odorless and does not cause itching. It is considered normal as long as it does not carry any signs of infection. It occurs when the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria in the vaginal flora is disrupted. It manifests itself with a gray-white, thin-consistent and foul-smelling discharge similar to the smell of fish. The smell usually becomes more pronounced after sexual intercourse.
It may also be accompanied by itching and a slight burning sensation. It occurs as a result of excessive growth of the fungus called Candida. A thick, white, lumpy discharge resembling curd is observed. It is usually accompanied by itching, burning, redness and discomfort during urination. Antibiotic use, pregnancy and weakened immune system may be triggers. It occurs due to the parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It manifests itself with a greenish, foul-smelling and abundant discharge. The discharge may be frothy. In addition, symptoms such as pain during sexual intercourse, itching in the vagina and burning during urination are also observed. It is a sexually transmitted infection. Some infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea vaginal discharge This type of discharge may be yellow or green, foul-smelling and thick.
Pelvic pain, burning sensation during urination, and irregular bleeding may also occur. The risk of transmission from a sexual partner is high. Cervical infections can develop, especially with sexually transmitted microorganisms. The discharge is usually mucous, yellowish, and foul-smelling. In advanced cases, symptoms such as groin pain and bleeding during intercourse may be seen. Perfumed soaps, vaginal douches, sprays, or detergents can disrupt the natural balance of the vagina. These products can cause irritation and irritation in the vagina, causing discharge, itching, and burning. pH-balanced and unscented products should always be preferred.
What are the Vaginal Discharge Treatment Methods?
Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics for discharge caused by bacterial infections. These medications control the infection by stopping the growth of harmful bacteria. They are especially effective in cases such as bacterial vaginosis. The treatment period usually lasts 5-7 days. Antifungal medications are used for white, thick, and itchy discharge caused by candida (yeast) infections. These medications can be in the form of both vaginal suppositories and oral tablets. With treatment, the symptoms caused by the fungus will decrease in a short time.
Vaginal discharge If viral infections are the cause of the cases, antiviral drugs are prescribed. These drugs do not completely eliminate the virus, but they reduce the severity of symptoms by slowing its proliferation and speed up the healing process. When the natural acidic environment of the vagina is disrupted, it becomes vulnerable to infections. In this case, the pH level of the vagina is balanced with special gels, vaginal washes or probiotic supplements. Such supplements are especially recommended for recurring discharge. Some women want to try natural methods such as yogurt, garlic or apple cider vinegar. However, these methods should be applied under the supervision of a doctor and as recommended.
Otherwise, it can harm the vaginal flora. It is very important to keep the vaginal area clean and dry during the treatment process. Cotton underwear should be preferred instead of tight and synthetic underwear. In addition, it is healthier to gently clean the vaginal area with water instead of washing it with soap. Since some infections can be transmitted sexually, the partner should also be treated. Otherwise, the infection can be transmitted again. This is especially true for parasitic infections such as trichomoniasis. Since estrogen levels drop during menopause, vaginal dryness and related vaginal discharge In this case, doctors may recommend local estrogen therapy. This treatment helps the vagina regain its natural moisture.
