Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Every female has normal vaginal discharge produced by glands in the vagina and cervix. This discharge serves as a natural lubricant and also cleans the vagina by removing old cells, thus maintaining a healthy vaginal environment. Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear or milky and odourless. The color and thickness of the discharge change with your monthly cycle. The discharge is thicker when you ovulate, when you breastfeed, or when you are sexually excited.

There are naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina, which help maintain an acidic environment. Any disruption to the natural balance of the vaginal flora, often due to bacteria that should not be present, can result in abnormal vaginal discharge.

Symptoms of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Changes that may signal a problem include:

  • An increase in the amount of discharge

  • A change in the color or smell of the discharge

  • A discharge that is stained with blood when you are not having your period

  • Irritation, itching, or burning in or around your vagina

  • Pain or burning during urination

Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Abnormal vaginal discharge is most commonly caused by infection, and include:

  • Bacterial vaginosis (BV). This is the most common vaginal infection, accounting for up to 50% of all infections. BV is treated with antibiotics.

  • Yeast infections

  • Sexually Transmitted Infections eg. Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea and Trichomoniasis.

  • Retained tampon

Non-infectious causes include:

  • Certain hygiene practices, such as douching or using scented sprays or soaps

  • Antibiotics

  • Pregnancy

  • Diabetes

  • Cervical Cancer

What different kinds of discharge may mean

  • If discharge is whitish to pale yellow and thick and clumpy, and it is accompanied with vaginal itching or burning, you may have a yeast infection.

  • If discharge is heavier than usual, watery, and grayish with an unpleasant fishy odour, you may have bacterial vaginosis.

  • If discharge suddenly increases and is green or yellow with a foul odour, or is causing other symptoms like fever or abdominal pain, you should see your doctor for a proper evaluation.

FAQs

  • Your doctor will ask in detail about your medical history and specific questions about your discharge, then perform a physical examination. Usually a vaginal swab test will be performed. Your doctor will gently insert an instrument called a speculum into the vagina, and then use a swab to collect a sample of the discharge. The swab is sent off to the laboratory to test for infections. You may experience some slight discomfort during the procedure. The swab test is best done when you are not on your period.

  • The treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Medications in the form of vaginal pessaries, oral tablets or topical gels/creams may be prescribed.

    • Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet. This may help prevent getting bacteria from your rectal area to your vagina.

    • Bathe or shower daily and keep your genital area clean and dry after doing so.

    • Avoid douching and usage of feminine hygiene products, perfumed toilet paper and bubble bath.

    • Avoid wearing tight fitting clothing like exercise tights, pantyhose, swimming suits and biking shorts for long periods.

    • Instead, wear cotton underpants instead as they allow the genital area to “breathe”.

    • Practise safe sex, which includes the correct and consistent usage of condoms, to reduce the risk of STIs.

    • Ensure that your Pap smear is up to date.

Get in touch to find out more.

If you are concerned that you may be facing issues with your vaginal discharge, please make an appointment to see our doctor today. We are here to help.