Vaginal Discharge/Leucorrhea
Vaginal discharge, also known as leucorrhea, is a common condition experienced by women of reproductive age. It is the natural way for the body to get rid of dead cells and bacteria from the vagina. The amount, colour, and consistency of the discharge can vary depending on the stage of the menstrual cycle and other factors.
Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear or white and has a mild odour. However, if the discharge becomes thick, yellow, green, or has a strong foul odour, it may be a sign of an infection or other underlying condition. Other symptoms that may accompany abnormal discharge include itching, burning, and pain during intercourse or urination.
Causes
Some common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge include
- Yeast infections
- Bacterial vaginosis
- sexually transmitted infections (STIs),
- hormonal changes
- use of certain medications or hygiene products.
It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any abnormal vaginal discharge or other symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve outcomes. Your healthcare provider may recommend a physical exam, lab tests, or imaging studies to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina. While it is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), BV is more common in sexually active women, especially those with multiple partners.
The symptoms of BV can include a thin, greyish-white vaginal discharge with a strong fishy odour, vaginal itching, and burning during urination. However, some women with BV may have no symptoms at all.
BV is typically diagnosed through a physical exam and a vaginal swab test. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, either in the form of an oral medication or a vaginal cream or gel.
It’s important to seek medical treatment for BV, as leaving it untreated can increase the risk of developing other infections and complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs)