Each part of the body has its function, whether it is to ensure the body’s systems run smoothly or even to protect against risks from external invaders. When any function changes, the body responds by signaling that something different is happening, and this is also true in the female intimate area, where vaginal discharge occurs.
The vagina naturally produces fluids that are part of the lubrication of the vaginal walls and are also a result of the menstrual cycle, adapting to its functioning with hormonal changes.
But the difference in these natural vaginal fluids is noticed when there is an increase in volume and changes in characteristics like odor and color. When this alteration occurs, the presence of vaginal discharge is confirmed.
The vagina’s natural fluids are produced by small glands located in the vaginal canal whose function is to protect and remove dead cells or bacteria that might try to affect the area, thus preventing infections.
What is Vaginal Discharge?
Vaginal discharge can have several causes, and its color and symptoms indicate the reasons. In some cases, it can be completely natural due to hormonal imbalances, or it may indicate the presence of a gynecological disease.
Vaginal discharge refers to fluids that exceed the vagina’s natural moisture. It is often noticed by its presence on underwear, sometimes because of resulting stains or due to a noticeably different odor.
Natural vaginal discharge is generally not a cause for concern if it appears transparent or slightly whitish and has no smell and does not cause symptoms such as itching or burning when urinating.
Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Abnormal vaginal discharge is that which is related to the presence of some bacteria, fungi or gynecological disease. The most common is known as vaginitis, a vaginal inflammation caused by the presence of fungi and bacteria in the genital area.
However, it can also occur for several other reasons, such as hormonal imbalance, vaginal atrophy during and after the onset of menopause, and even allergic reactions to hygiene products or protection products like spermicides or condoms. Let’s list the main causes, ways to prevent them, and the recommended treatment for each.
Candidiasis
Within the natural flora of the vagina, there is a fungus called Candida. In addition to the vaginal area, it is present on the skin and in the intestines of all humans. Since it is a natural fungus of the human body, it does not cause symptoms and is not noticeable until, for some reason, the body’s functions are altered.
The main causes of changes in how the body functions include stress, excessive use of antibiotics, immunosuppressants, trauma, and diabetes. When these occur, previously silent Candida begins to multiply and cause discomfort and symptoms.
Symptoms of Candidiasis
As these fungi proliferate, symptoms become evident, causing vaginal itching, burning in the vulva area, and intense pain when urinating or during sexual intercourse. Along with these symptoms, vaginal discharge presents as thick, whitish, and with a very strong, characteristic odor that is easily noticed.
Treatment for Vaginal Candidiasis
Treatment for vaginal candidiasis is split into two types: complicated and uncomplicated. Symptoms and details must be reported to the gynecologist, who will prescribe the appropriate treatment for each case.
Simple and uncomplicated cases are those that occur in isolation, no more than 3 episodes over a year, and in women who are otherwise healthy and not pregnant.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a genital infection that can affect both men and women. Caused by a bacterium called Trichomonas Vaginalis, trichomoniasis can be completely asymptomatic or present symptoms such as vaginitis, cystitis, or epididymitis.
Trichomoniasis is classified as an STI, and its main form of transmission is sexual activity. The cause is the presence of a parasite, which is passed from person to person during sex.
IMPORTANT: Along with trichomoniasis, other illnesses such as gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted diseases may also occur.
In women, the severity manifests as intense inflammation in the vaginal area, known as vaginitis. The most affected areas of the vagina are: the vulva, cervix, and urethra.
Research shows that about 50% of women affected have the disease asymptomatically and have completely normal vaginal pH. For this reason, it is important to ensure regular visits to the gynecologist and keep routine exams up to date.
It’s worth noting that even in cases without symptoms, the infection can still be transmitted.
Risk Factors
The main risk factors for transmission of trichomoniasis include:
- Unprotected sex;
- Multiple sexual partners without protection;
- Presence of other STIs;
- Low immunity;
- Frequent use of pools and bathtubs.
Symptoms of Trichomoniasis
In some cases, trichomoniasis may not present symptoms, but in most cases, the most obvious symptoms of the disease are:
- Vaginal discharge that is white, grayish, yellow, or greenish in color;
- Strong vaginal odor;
- Redness in the genital area;
- Intense vaginal itching;
- Discomfort and burning when urinating or during sexual intercourse;
Treatment of Trichomoniasis
If you suspect or notice any distinctive symptoms of the condition, such as bad vaginal odor or pain during urination or sexual activity, see your gynecologist immediately for evaluation.
Diagnosis cannot be confirmed based on symptoms alone; therefore, some tests will be requested, including the Pap smear. Vaginal pH analysis tests, as well as cytology and culture tests, may also be ordered.
Treatment is quite common and is more effective when taken orally rather than using local gels, ointments, or creams. High, controlled doses of secnidazole, metronidazole, or tinidazole will be prescribed. Treatment lasts about a week, during which time sexual activity should be avoided or fully protected by condom use.
Only after testing can your doctor recommend the best treatment and suitable dosage for your situation. Never interrupt treatment and follow all medical instructions to ensure complete success.
Vaginal Discharge Considered Normal
Discharge is not always a sign of a health problem. It can be an indication that your body is functioning perfectly and all stages are normal. This is true when clear, egg white-like discharge is present.
This kind of discharge indicates a woman is in her fertile period. It usually disappears on its own and lasts an average of six days.
Similarly, pink discharge can also be healthy. Usually, this type of discharge is a sign of egg fertilization and can even indicate a possible pregnancy.
It usually occurs about three days after intercourse and may be accompanied by mild cramps that resolve naturally without intervention.
How to Prevent Discharge?
To avoid the appearance of discharge related to disease and infection, proper intimate hygiene is necessary, always drying or cleaning the intimate area after using the bathroom and practicing safe sex using condoms.
Other simple steps that may help prevent it include:
- Choosing cotton underwear;
- Avoiding daily panty liners;
- Avoiding perfumed soaps, toilet paper, and scented wipes
Vaginal cleaning should also be done with neutral soap and there is no need to scrub the intimate area. Excessive cleaning can remove the vagina’s natural protective barriers, increasing the chance of fungal and bacterial growth.
If you have questions about intimate health, talk to your gynecologist about the best care and what should be avoided. Don’t forget the importance of regular check-ups and having the Pap smear done annually or whenever your doctor requests it.
Photo: Canon EOS 5D Mark II
