Changes in Vaginal Discharge: When Is the Time for Alarm?
Here you can find everything about the changes in vaginal discharge and on how to recognize diseases that lead to them.
In case of changes in vaginal discharge due to sexually transmitted diseases, the partner should also go through medical examination. (PhotoXpress)
Vaginal discharge
Vaginal discharge is a fluid or a bit denser substance which is released through the vaginal opening. Most women have at least some vaginal discharge and a small amount of discharge is the sign of a normal and natural bodily process of vaginal cleansing. The quantity and type of vaginal discharge vary from woman to woman and also depend on the menstrual cycle. Changes in vaginal discharge, be it in structure (unusual odour or colour), or in the presence of vaginal discharge itself - as a consequence of irritation, can also be symptoms of an infection.
What can lead to changes in vaginal discharge?
The vaginal walls and the cervix have glands that produce a small quanitity of a fluid that helps keep the vagina clean. This normal vaginal discharge is typically clear, transparent or milky white and doesn't smell foul. Numerous infections can, however, cause a change in its quantity, consistency, colour or odour. The most common are bacterial vaginosis, which is an imbalance of naturally occurring bacterial flora, trichomoniasis, which is a sexually transmitted infection, gonorrhea, chlamydia and vaginal candidiasis. Trichomoniasis, 
gonorrhea and chlamydia are sexually transmitted diseases, while vaginosis and a fungal or yeast infection can't be transmitted by intercourse. Vaginal bleeding should be distinguished from vaginal discharge.
Certain diseases can be identified through changes in vaginal discharge
Discharges can appear in various shades, from grey, yellow, greenish to milky white, and they can also emit an unpleasant smell. The symptoms and the characteristics of the fluid depend on the cause that triggers vaginal discharge. Bacterial vaginosis usually shows in white-grey discharge, which is often accompanied by a foul odour that resembles the smell of fish. Frothy and green-yellow discharge with a strong odour is usually the consequence of trichomoniasis. The latter is commonly signalled by the unpleasant feeling during intercourse or urination, together with itching. Gonorrhea causes a burning feeling during urination and yellowish discharge, while it makes sexual organs reddish and swollen. The same symptoms can also indicate chlamydia. A fungal infection comes with dense and white, curd-like discharge which looks like cottage cheese. The discharge is most commonly odourless, while side symptoms can include a burning feeling or pain.
When should one seek medical help because of changes in vaginal discharge?
It's advisable to seek medical assistance every time you notice changes in vaginal discharge or any other possible symptoms such as itching or pain in the region of sexual organs. Sometimes the changes in vaginal discharge can be due to the menstrual cycle. When you're observing your body, keep in mind that you are the one who's most familiar with it and that you will without doubt feel when it wants to warn you that something isn't right. The type of medical treatment depends on the cause of discharge. Usually, a woman is prescribed antibiotics, while other methods of treatment involve injections, insertion of suppositories, and taking pills.
How can you help yourself when changes in vaginal discharge occur?
Fungal infection can be cured also with non-prescription medicines, but the method of treatment is usually determined by a physician. Some people may advise douching of the vagina, but many doctors are strongly against it, as it could destroy the bacterial balance in the vagina, which has the ability to keep itself clean without our interference. When it comes to trichomoniasis, gonorrhea and chlamydia, it's important that the woman's partner is medically examined, too. Otherwise he can infect his lover once again. Also, it's essential to go through the treatment with antibiotics till the end, even when the symptoms have already disappeared.
How to prevent changes in vaginal discharge?
Practising safe and hygienic intercourse is of key importance. We also advise you to use cotton underwear and only those soaps that aren't too aggressive, but are made especially for intimate hygiene.
Find out more about women's intimate health in the Encyclopedia of Sexuality.
