Is white discharge in girls and women normal? Copious (strong) discharge in women: causes, norm and pathology Frequent discharge in women

Unusual vaginal discharge includes:
bloody brown discharge, green, white, yellow, smelly, foamy or thin discharge.

A certain amount of fluid that flows from a woman's genitals is normal. The walls of the vagina and cervix contain glands that produce a small amount of secretion, which irrigates and cleanses the vagina and prevents infection. This is normal discharge and is usually clear or slightly cloudy, slimy or watery, and does not have an unpleasant odor. Vaginal discharge occurs in all healthy women and is normal.

Signs of normal, healthy vaginal discharge:

  • They are liquid, transparent (mucus, jelly-like)
  • The amount of discharge is insignificant
  • No noticeable odor
  • They do not irritate the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs and are not accompanied by any symptoms of the disease (itching, temperature, pain, discomfort in the genital area).

The amount of normal vaginal discharge and its consistency may vary depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle and the woman's condition. Vaginal secretions increase in certain time the menstrual cycle (around the middle of the cycle, at the time of ovulation), during breastfeeding, or during sexual arousal. An increase in vaginal discharge in healthy women may occur due to stress, changes in climate conditions, or the use of certain medications (for example, hormonal contraceptives).

An increase in the amount of vaginal discharge (more abundant and thin) is observed during pregnancy and gradually increases towards the end of pregnancy. The intensification of vaginal discharge in pregnant women is explained by an increase in the concentration of sex hormones during this period.

An increase in the amount of secretion, an abnormal odor or change in consistency, or pain, itching or burning that accompanies vaginal discharge may be signs of infection or other more serious conditions.

Beli - excessive or unusual in nature (smell, color, consistency, quantity) discharge (profuse milky-white, yellow-green, bloody, liquid or thick, odor-bearing, etc.), causing itching, burning and a constant feeling of wetness.

Pathological vaginal discharge - leucorrhoea - can be very diverse in color (red-bloody, brown, gray, black, whitish, greenish, yellowish, pink), consistency (jelly-like, curdled, foamy) with or without odor. Leucorrhoea may be accompanied by other symptoms (itching, irritation, pain) or may be the only symptom of the disease.

Unlike leucorrhoea, physiological vaginal discharge is light and light. Usually they do not cause irritation to the skin and mucous membrane of the genital organs; their number increases slightly before menstruation, during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and in girls - during puberty. The total amount of secretion that accumulates in the vagina during the day does not normally exceed 1 ml and is not felt.

The main causes of vaginal discharge and diseases that cause leucorrhoea

Leucorrhoea is one of the most common symptoms of gynecological diseases, associated with a quantitative or qualitative change in the secretion of the genital organs.

Causes of discharge: inflammatory processes, infections, injuries, tumors of various locations. The nature of leucorrhoea is determined by its origin (tubal, uterine and vaginal leucorrhoea is liquid, cervical leucorrhoea is mucous). An admixture of pus usually indicates an inflammatory process, and blood - the development of a tumor.

Leucorrhoea often appears with various gynecological (for example, adnexitis, vaginitis, colpitis) and other diseases. Abnormal discharge can occur due to prolapse of the vaginal walls, ruptures of the perineum, douching with concentrated antiseptic solutions, long-term use of chemical contraceptives, congestion in the pelvic organs caused by constipation and a sedentary lifestyle, and violation of personal hygiene rules.

Pathological discharge from the female genital organs- a characteristic symptom of a disease of the reproductive system or a general disease of the body.

Tentatively, leucorrhoea may indicate the nature of the pathological process, for example:

  • yellow, yellow-green discharge occurs with gonorrhea;
  • liquid yellow, foamy - with trichomoniasis;
  • white, crumbly - with thrush.

The most common causes of secretion disorders are inflammatory diseases of the genital organs, tumors of the genital organs, foreign bodies in the vagina, tendrils of intrauterine devices, contraceptive caps, pessaries, sexually transmitted diseases, sexual dysfunction, interrupted coitus, masturbation, diabetes mellitus, diseases of the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, cystitis, urethritis, long-term use of chemical contraception, a sedentary lifestyle, causing congestion in the pelvic organs, non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene, especially genital hygiene, etc. Leucorrhoea, regardless of the individual reaction to them, negatively affects nervous system women, lead to maceration of oozing, decreased libido, and sometimes to infertility.

Changes in the color, clarity, consistency, or odor of vaginal discharge may indicate the presence of certain diseases or conditions:

Red, bloody, brown vaginal discharge

Red vaginal discharge indicate the presence of blood in the secretion. Most often, they appear a few days before menstruation (then turn into heavy discharge characteristic of menstruation) and can persist for several days after the cessation of menstruation. If the bleeding is not heavy and approximately coincides with menstruation, then there is no need to worry. In women wearing an IUD, every month, a few days before menstruation, light spotting may appear from the vagina.

Often, bloody leucorrhoea has a brown or even blackish tint, the occurrence of which is associated with the oxidation and destruction of blood in the vagina.

If there is very little blood in the discharge, then it acquires a pink or brownish tint (spotting). Usually normal (perimenstrual spotting) does not have an unpleasant odor.

Rarely, slight vaginal bleeding may occur in the middle of the menstrual cycle (ovulation bleeding) or in women wearing the IUD or taking oral contraceptives(the lower the dose of estrogen hormones, the stronger the bleeding). If blood appears while taking contraceptives or wearing an intrauterine device, you should consult a gynecologist.

More or less profuse bloody leucorrhoea, not associated with menstruation, almost always indicates the presence of disease. Most often, red discharge is observed when:

  • Cervical erosions or cancer (red or pink discharge that gets worse after intercourse)
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Adenomyosis (endometriosis)

If you experience bleeding from the vagina that is not associated with menstruation, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

More abundant single (and sudden) bleeding can be caused by spontaneous miscarriage in early pregnancy. With an ectopic pregnancy, bleeding can be very heavy and prolonged, and it can be confused with menstruation. If against the background of bloody discharge and possible signs pregnancy, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Whitish, white, or yellow vaginal discharge

Whitish or yellow vaginal discharge is characteristic of various genital tract infections. The whitish or yellow color (less often green or gray color) of leucorrhoea is usually associated with the presence of a large number of microbes and leukocytes (purulent discharge).

Purulent (white, gray, greenish) vaginal discharge

Purulent (white, gray, greenish) leucorrhoea is observed with trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, thrush and some other infections. Typically, purulent discharge from the genital tract is accompanied by more or less severe itching and a feeling of discomfort in the genital area. Often the discharge is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen or lower back.

In pregnant women, normal vaginal discharge towards the end of pregnancy may become quite viscous and whitish in color - this is normal, and there is no need to worry if there are no other signs of illness.

Foamy, curdled, thick vaginal discharge

A change in the consistency of vaginal secretions is also a sign of illness. Normal vaginal discharge, as mentioned above, should be quite thin and mucus-like. Foamy or white, curdled leucorrhoea is most often a sign of infection.

Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor

The appearance of an unpleasant odor (most often such discharge is purulent or cheesy) is also a sign of infection. An unpleasant odor (fishy odor, rotten odor, sour odor) is associated with the activity of pathogenic microbes that decompose nutrients and release gases with an unpleasant odor.

Vaginal discharge before and after sex

When sexually aroused, the glands of the vaginal vestibule in women begin to actively produce so-called vaginal lubrication. Therefore, the presence of liquid transparent discharge immediately before or during sex is normal.

Appearance thick heavy discharge (possibly with an unpleasant odor) immediately after sex (or on the second day) may be associated with cleansing the vagina of sperm (this is possible if sexual intercourse was complete, the man had an orgasm and did not use a condom). As a rule, such discharge stops quickly.

Appearance bloody vaginal discharge during sexual intercourse or immediately after it may indicate the presence of cervical erosion.

Appearance white, yellow, greenish gray or purulent leucorrhoea a few days or weeks after sex may indicate the development of an infection.

Leucorrhoea in infectious diseases

Vaginal discharge is a common symptom of several sexually transmitted diseases in women, most of which are sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Vaginal discharge due to trichomoniasis

Vaginitis with trichomoniasis manifests itself copious foamy leucorrhoea, often with an unpleasant odor. Long-term (chronic) vaginitis is accompanied by thick white or yellow leucorrhoea. As a rule, discharge during urogenital trichomoniasis is combined with unbearable itching in the area of ​​the external genitalia. The diagnosis of urogenital trichomoniasis is never made on the basis of symptoms alone; to make a diagnosis of trichomoniasis, the following studies must be performed:

Examination under a microscope of a native (unstained) vaginal smear
Examination under a microscope of a vaginal smear stained with special dyes
The cultural method of research is the cultivation of colonies of microorganisms obtained from the vagina on special nutrient media with subsequent study of the resulting cultures.
PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is a research method based on the study of the genetic material of Trichomonas vaginalis.

Vaginal discharge due to bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common condition that causes foul-smelling discharge. The cause of the development of bacterial vaginosis is the excessive growth of bacteria on the vaginal mucosa, which are normally present inside in small quantities (synonymous with vaginal dysbiosis). These bacteria include: Gardenerella vaginalis, Bacteroides, Peptococci, etc.
Women with bacterial vaginosis develop white discharge with an unpleasant “fishy” odor (fishy odor). As with trichomoniasis, the diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis cannot be made based on symptoms alone. Diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis is based on the following research methods:

pH-metry. Normally, the vagina has an acidic environment, while with bacterial vaginosis the environment becomes alkaline.
Microscopic examination of unstained vaginal smears
Examination under a microscope of vaginal smears stained with special dyes
When a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis is made, the attending physician prescribes treatment.

Vaginal discharge due to vaginal candidiasis (thrush)

Urogenital candidiasis (thrush) is an inflammatory disease of the genital organs in women and men, caused by fungi of the genus Candida. Women with candidiasis (thrush) develop thick white vaginal discharge (specific cheesy discharge) with a sour or bready odor. Other symptoms of urogenital candidiasis in women are discomfort and itching in the genital area, often accompanied by cramps and pain when urinating. Diagnosis of thrush is carried out on the basis of the following studies:

Examination of native (unstained) vaginal smears under a microscope
Microscopic examination of stained vaginal smears
Mycological examination - identifying the type of fungus that causes thrush.

Self-medication of the above infectious diseases genital area is not recommended. Often Leucorrhoea can be caused by several infections at once, for example, a combination of bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. In such cases, treatment should be carried out according to special schemes and determined only by the attending physician based on the test results obtained.

Discharge before and after menstruation

Normally, discharge before menstruation intensifies, becomes thicker, and may acquire a yellowish tint. Brown discharge is also normal a day or two before menstruation and immediately after the end of menstruation, if this discharge is associated with menstruation. Excessive brown leucorrhoea long before or after menstruation can be associated with diseases such as endometriosis, endometritis, endocervicitis, etc.

Vaginal discharge during pregnancy

Vaginal discharge in early pregnancy

Vaginal discharge may be heavier than usual in early pregnancy, but this is normal as long as it remains clear, does not have an unpleasant odor, and is not accompanied by other symptoms such as itching or pain in the genital area.

Appearance brown or bloody Vaginal discharge in early pregnancy may indicate spontaneous miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy.

Purulent or whitish, white Vaginal discharge in early pregnancy may indicate an infection.

Vaginal discharge in late pregnancy

During mid-pregnancy and later stages, normal discharge may become more viscous and thick. Suddenly appeared brown or bloody discharge may indicate an incipient miscarriage or premature birth, so immediately if blood is detected, you should seek help from a doctor. Brown vaginal discharge during pregnancy may indicate slight bleeding from the vessels of the cervix and also require examination by a doctor.

Discharge after childbirth

During the week after childbirth, regardless of whether the birth occurred naturally or there was a cesarean section, profuse bloody discharge similar to menstruation - lochia - is observed, over time their quantity decreases, there may be an admixture of ichor in the blood - this is normal if they do not have an unpleasant odor and no severe abdominal pain. Normally, lochia persists for up to 3 weeks, maximum 4 weeks after birth. For longer discharge, you should consult a gynecologist.

Treatment for vaginal discharge

Treatment of leucorrhoea with folk remedies

Only a few folk remedies are applicable in the treatment of vaginal discharge, but only in combination with traditional medicines. Thus, in the treatment of recurrent (repeating repeatedly) candidiasis (thrush), an infusion of calendula officinalis (marigold) is used for douching between the use of vaginal tablets or suppositories.

Treatment of leucorrhoea with folk remedies according to folk recipes is dangerous because the undiagnosed (undefined) disease that caused this discharge becomes chronic, its symptoms are erased, diagnosis of the disease becomes very difficult, and treatment becomes more complicated (treatment is longer and requires the use of more stronger drugs).

Before prescribing any traditional recipes, you need to know your exact diagnosis and take into account the contraindications of the drugs used. folk remedies treatment.

Which doctor should I contact if I have unusual vaginal discharge?

If leucorrhoea appears from the genitals, you should immediately consult a gynecologist.

Vaginal discharge, or leucorrhoea (also leukorrhea), occurs in healthy women, as well as in various diseases, especially infections. Common reason excess quantity secreted fluid - bacterial vaginosis, that is, an imbalance of normal vaginal microflora, as well as thrush (candidiasis). The discharge of leucorrhoea may be accompanied by burning, itching, and an unpleasant odor. Treatment depends on the cause that causes them.

What is leucorrhoea?

Should a healthy woman have leucorrhoea? Yes, this process reflects the normal cleansing of the mucous membrane from dead cells. For most women, the amount of vaginal secretion increases before ovulation and. This occurs due to changes in hormonal levels and increased secretion by the glands of the cervix and vagina, which helps possible fertilization. A healthy woman of reproductive age produces about 20 ml of leucorrhoea per day, but this amount is individual.

A change in odor, color, or increase in the amount of discharge accompanied by irritation of the vaginal tissue may indicate the presence of an infection.

Causes of pathological discharge

The walls of the vagina and cervix contain glands that secrete small amounts of fluid, which helps cleanse the genital tract. Normal leucorrhoea is transparent or milky white in color and does not have an unpleasant odor. Various infectious diseases can cause changes in their volume, consistency, color or smell.

Pathological reasons for changes in the nature of discharge:

  • Bacterial vaginosis

This is an imbalance in the number of bacteria that are normally present in the vagina. Its exact causes are unknown. Previously, it was believed that vaginosis was caused by the bacteria gardnerella, and was referred to as gardnerellosis. However, an increase in the number of these microorganisms during illness is not always observed.

  • Trichomoniasis
  • Gonorrhea

The infection is transmitted sexually. The causative agent is the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or gonococci.

  • Chlamydia

Another sexually transmitted infection caused by microorganisms of the genus Chlamydia. Infected women usually have no symptoms, and the only manifestation of the pathology is leucorrhoea. In the acute course of the disease, in addition to heavy discharge, signs of inflammation of the vagina, urethra, and bladder appear.

  • Candidiasis

The disease occurs when there is an overgrowth of Candida fungi in the vagina, often due to antibiotics or other factors that destroy the normal bacterial flora of the vagina.

Symptoms

Pathological leucorrhoea in women can have different colors - from transparent to gray, yellow, greenish or milky white, as well as an unpleasant odor of different nature. Symptoms depend on their cause:

  • : not all women are accompanied by this symptom, but often under the influence of a provoking factor an abundant discharge of a grayish-white color appears, with an unpleasant fishy odor.
  • Causes foamy, yellow-green, odorless leucorrhoea. Associated symptoms include discomfort during sexual intercourse and urination, irritation and itching of the genitals.
  • is accompanied by symptoms in only half of infected women. The patient may be bothered by a burning sensation when urinating, an increase in frequency, yellow vaginal discharge, redness and swelling of the genitals, and itching in the vagina.
  • It is also often asymptomatic. In other patients, the amount of discharge increases and symptoms of cystitis and urethritis appear.
  • accompanied by thick, odorless leucorrhoea, the consistency of which resembles cottage cheese. Other symptoms include burning, pain during urination and intercourse.

Leucorrhoea in healthy women

The nature of vaginal discharge can change at different periods of a woman’s life.

Leucorrhoea before menstruation occurs 2-3 days before it begins. They are usually white or slightly yellowish. If a woman uses intrauterine contraception (), leucorrhoea will be yellow or brownish in color and spotting in nature. Their consistency is quite thick, mucous in nature, with a faint sour odor.

Pregnancy period

During the 1st trimester of pregnancy, a woman usually does not notice any changes in the nature of vaginal secretions. From the 13th week, a mucous plug forms, closing the cervical canal, metabolism accelerates and the cells of the vaginal wall die. These processes are accompanied by an increase in the volume of secreted mucus, which normally has a light or white color, liquid consistency, and no odor.

In the 3rd trimester, the discharge becomes quite heavy. This symptom is called “leukorrhea during pregnancy.” If it is not accompanied by itching, burning, redness of the external genitalia or a change in the color and smell of the discharge, this phenomenon is physiological in nature and requires only compliance with hygiene rules. Any changes in normal properties should be reported to your doctor.

Climax

Leucorrhoea gradually becomes less intense. However, they retain their normal color and slight odor. Copious discharge that is yellow, green, cheesy in consistency, or mixed with blood should be the reason for contacting a gynecologist.

The function of the sex glands in older women fades, so hormones cease to influence the condition of the vaginal wall. It develops dryness, which should not cause concern. If there is discomfort, the gynecologist may prescribe an estrogen-containing cream that stimulates the mucous glands. At this age, a sign of pathology becomes abundant discharge, especially of a watery nature, which may be a sign of endometrial cancer.

Vaginal discharge options

To find out if you need medical care with leucorrhoea, it is necessary to determine its nature:

  • milky white: a variant of the norm, usually occurs before menstruation or a few days after it;
  • transparent and watery: normal if not accompanied by itching and unpleasant odor;
  • resembling egg white: elastic, light, appear during the period, indicate a woman’s greatest ability to conceive;
  • yellow: a sign of an infectious process; with an accompanying fishy smell - a symptom of bacterial vaginosis;
  • green: symptom of infection; with an accompanying unpleasant odor, most likely trichomoniasis;
  • brown: hormonal imbalance, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and implantation bleeding after pregnancy; during pregnancy, may be a sign of a threatened miscarriage;
  • thick: occur in the second phase of the cycle, often indicating the end of the time favorable for conception;
  • white crumbly: a sign of thrush;
  • pink: symptom of cervical or endometrial tumor, vaginal infections,.

Other possible causes of pathological discharge

Changes in the character of leucorrhoea can occur under the influence of rarer reasons:

Allergic reaction

May develop on new brand washing powder, detergents intimate hygiene etc. Chemicals in detergents, fabric softeners, creams, sprays, topical contraceptives (creams, vaginal tablets), and condoms can cause genital irritation. The same reaction sometimes occurs with intolerance to antibiotics.

Systemic diseases

First of all, diabetes mellitus. Women with this pathology have an increased risk of vaginal candidiasis. Thrush also occurs when local immunity is suppressed and the number of normal lactic acid bacteria decreases under the influence of antibiotic therapy. Sometimes candidiasis develops after using one of the groups of antibacterial drugs (for example, Ciprofloxacin), while others do not cause an exacerbation of the disease.

Failure to comply with hygiene rules

The cause of discharge and unpleasant odor can be a sanitary tampon forgotten in the vagina. You can try to remove it yourself by first washing your hands well. If parts of the tampon still remain inside, you should contact a gynecologist, as they can cause purulent inflammation and septic shock.

Diagnostic measures

When deviations from the norm occur, the following diagnostic methods are used:

  • identifying the symptoms of the disease, the time of their appearance and other characteristics;
  • vaginal examination with examination of the walls of the vagina and cervix using mirrors;
  • a smear from the vagina and from the surface of the cervix for microscopic examination;
  • polymerase chain reaction to identify infectious agents.

Treatment

Drug therapy

Drugs for the treatment of leucorrhoea are prescribed by a gynecologist after establishing the causes of the pathology. The most commonly used antibiotics are in the form of tablets, injections, or topical medications such as vaginal suppositories.

It is important to receive the full prescribed course of antibiotics or antifungal medications, even if symptoms have resolved. If signs of the disease persist or recur, you should consult a gynecologist to rule out a malignant tumor of the genital organs.

To restore vaginal microflora after completion of antibiotic therapy, the following are recommended:

  • vaginal suppositories Lactobacterin, Acylact, Bifidumbacterin, Bifiliz, Femilex;
  • vaginal capsules Laktozhinal, Laktonorm, Ecofemin;
  • vaginal tablets Vaginorm-S.

Treatment of leukorrhea should include compliance with the rules of hygiene:

  • washing with soap twice a day;
  • refusal to use tampons;
  • changing panty liners after each urination or bowel movement;
  • using unscented condoms during sexual intercourse;
  • use only cotton underwear.

Possible consequences of diseases accompanied by leucorrhoea in women in the absence of timely treatment:

  • pelvic inflammatory diseases (salpingitis, oophoritis, endometritis, endocervicitis);
  • ectopic pregnancy;
  • infertility;

Treatment with home remedies

Any pathological discharge requires contacting a doctor. Self-medication at home without an accurate diagnosis can cause a temporary improvement in well-being caused by the pathology becoming chronic. If there are sexually transmitted infections, the woman remains a source of pathogens, thinking that she is healthy.

Douching as a treatment method is not recommended by doctors. The body cleanses the vaginal walls spontaneously. Douching can disrupt the normal balance of microflora, causing inflammation and worsening symptoms. It is better to replace this popular method of therapy with sitz baths.

Folk remedies

Useful decoctions for oral administration:

  • wormwood roots (20 grams per glass), take a tablespoon three times a day;
  • peony roots, sweet clover herb, which are brewed and drunk instead of tea;
  • viburnum berry juice; A quarter glass a day is enough to reduce the intensity of discharge.

For washing and sitz baths you can prepare the following products:

  • take 30 grams of crushed eucalyptus leaves, pour a glass of boiling water, cool, strain and dissolve the infusion in 1 liter of boiled water;
  • Dissolve 10 ml of pharmaceutical tincture of calendula with alcohol in a glass of water;
  • use St. John's wort, chamomile, oak bark, yarrow, and sage to prepare decoctions;
  • In case of severe itching, concentrated soda baths at the rate of 5 tablespoons per liter of water will help to quickly eliminate it.

Prognosis and prevention

In most cases, the conditions that cause the abnormal leucorrhoea respond well to therapy. When treating atrophic vaginitis in older women with hormonal drugs, restoration of the mucous membrane will take several weeks.

For recurrent vaginal infections, the doctor prescribes more effective drugs, conducts a more in-depth examination to determine the causes of the protracted course of the disease.

To avoid diseases that may cause pathological discharge, the following preventive measures must be observed:

  1. Maintain sexual hygiene, use (condoms), avoid promiscuity.
  2. Antibiotic treatment only as prescribed by a doctor.
  3. Adequate nutrition, refusal bad habits, elimination of unfavorable factors that can negatively affect a woman’s health.
  4. Competent treatment of concomitant diseases, especially diabetes.

Thank you

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Vaginal discharge: causes and treatment depending on color, smell, consistency and other factors

Vaginal discharge: causes of its occurrence, as well as effective methods therapy
Vaginal discharge are a fairly common condition that from time to time worries all representatives of the fair sex, without exception. In most cases, the occurrence of vaginal discharge causes fear in a woman. In fact, only a few can distinguish normal discharge from pathological ones. We note right away that vaginal discharge can be either odorless or odorless. Their color can vary from red-bloody to yellowish. Based on consistency, there are curdled, foamy, and jelly-like discharges. Along with their occurrence, a woman may also experience symptoms such as pain, itching, and irritation. After reading the information presented in this article, you will be able to familiarize yourself with the most common forms of vaginal discharge, as well as learn about methods of diagnosis and treatment of pathologies in which they occur. In addition, this article will provide information regarding the problem of vaginal discharge during pregnancy.

Does vaginal discharge always indicate the presence of a disease? In what cases is vaginal discharge considered normal?
Vaginal discharge can occur even in completely healthy women, and this condition is considered normal. Signs of healthy vaginal discharge include:

  • Clear, liquid discharge ( jelly-like, mucus)
  • Discharge without a noticeable odor
  • A small amount of discharge
  • Discharges that do not cause irritation to the skin and mucous membranes of the genital organs
  • Discharge not accompanied by an increase in body temperature, pain or discomfort in the genital area.
If a woman is completely healthy, then vaginal discharge most often resembles mucus in consistency, which is produced by the glands of the cervix. This type of discharge is considered to be normal, since with its help it is possible to cleanse the genital tract, as well as protect the genitals from the effects of certain infections. Both the amount of normal vaginal discharge and its consistency are determined not only by the general health of the fairer sex, but also by the phase of the menstrual cycle. For example, a particularly large amount of liquid vaginal discharge is observed as ovulation approaches.
An increase in the amount of this type of discharge in a normal state of health is also possible in the case of excessive sexual arousal, against the background of stress or the use of certain pharmaceuticals, due to changes in climatic conditions.
Quite a large amount of copious liquid discharge is also observed in pregnant women, and in the last months of pregnancy there is even more of it. The increase in their number during pregnancy is easy to explain. The fact is that during this period in a woman’s body there is an increase in the number of sex hormones.

Vaginal discharge - what can it be?
Below, readers will be presented with information regarding the most common forms of vaginal discharge, as well as the reasons that provoke their development.

Vaginal discharge of varying colors, smells and consistency
We already said a little higher that all healthy representatives of the fairer sex experience watery, transparent and colorless vaginal discharge. If they acquire a different consistency, a specific smell or some color, then, most likely, some kind of disease has settled in the woman’s body:

Bloody (red) vaginal discharge is a signal that vaginal discharge there is blood. In most cases, this type of discharge occurs two to four days before the onset of menstruation, after which it turns into heavy discharge along with the onset of menstruation. It is worth noting that this type of discharge tends to occur several days after menstruation. If the discharge is not abundant, then it is better for the woman not to panic. This phenomenon is especially common in women who wear IUDs.
Quite often, spotting is blackish or brown in color, which indicates the fact of oxidation, as well as destruction of blood in the vagina.
There are also cases when a woman experiences spotting, which contains a small amount of blood. As a rule, perimenstrual bleeding does not have a specific odor.

Sometimes light spotting is observed at the time of ovulation, as well as in women who wear a spiral or use oral contraception. In the case of a constant occurrence of this phenomenon while wearing an intrauterine device or using contraceptives, it is necessary to discuss this fact with a gynecologist, having previously made an appointment with him for a consultation.
If bloody vaginal discharge is in no way related to the menstrual cycle, then it can be considered a signal of the presence of some pathology.
In most cases, this type of discharge makes itself felt:

  • For menstrual irregularities
  • Endometriosis ( adenomyosis)
  • Cancer or cervical erosion. In this case, the discharge is especially abundant after sexual intercourse.
If a woman experiences bloody vaginal discharge that is in no way related to menstruation, then she should immediately discuss this issue with her doctor.


As for sudden red discharge, it can be caused by an unexpected miscarriage in the first months of pregnancy. If an ectopic pregnancy develops, a woman experiences very strong, prolonged bleeding. If, in addition to discharge, a woman also exhibits some symptoms of pregnancy, then she should be immediately taken to the hospital.
Yellow and whitish vaginal discharge is especially often observed with the development of certain infectious pathologies that tend to be sexually transmitted. The yellow or whitish color is due to the accumulation of a huge number of leukocytes and microbes in the secretions.

Purulent vaginal discharge are observed in such infectious pathologies as chlamydia, trichomoniasis, thrush, gonorrhea and others. As a rule, this type of discharge also causes a feeling of discomfort in the genital area and itching. Sometimes women also complain of pain in the lumbar region or lower abdomen. During pregnancy, whitish, viscous vaginal discharge is considered to be a normal condition if the expectant mother does not experience other symptoms of the disease.

Curdled, foamy, thick vaginal discharge
A change in the consistency of vaginal discharge is also considered to be one of the clear signs of the presence of a particular pathology. We already said a little higher that normal discharge must be liquid, similar to mucus. If the discharge is white, cheesy or foamy, then most likely the woman has some kind of infectious disease.

Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor
The appearance of vaginal discharge with a specific odor indicates the presence of an infectious pathology. The smell in this case can be either sour or rotten or reminiscent of the smell of fish. It occurs against the background of the activity of pathogenic microorganisms, which tend to decompose nutritional components, while releasing gases with a very unpleasant odor.

Vaginal discharge before and after sexual intercourse
At the moment of sexual arousal, the vaginal glands of the fair sex tend to intensively synthesize vaginal lubrication, so that a large amount of liquid transparent discharge, which is noted before and during sexual intercourse, is considered to be the norm. Women should not be afraid of the occurrence of thick, profuse discharge even after sexual intercourse. The fact is that if sexual intercourse took place without using a condom, then it is quite possible that in this way the vagina is trying to cleanse itself of sperm. In most cases, this type of discharge disappears in a fairly short period of time.
If a woman experiences spotting during or after sex, then most likely she has cervical erosion.
The appearance of yellow, purulent, white, gray or greenish discharge several days or weeks after sexual intercourse is considered to be a signal of the occurrence of some infectious disease.

Vaginal discharge as a symptom of infection
Vaginal discharge is considered to be a clear sign of the development of an infectious pathology of the genital tract in only a few cases. The largest number of pathologies in which vaginal discharge is noted are infectious and transmitted during sexual intercourse.
The most common causes of vaginal discharge include:

  • Candidiasis ( thrush)
  • Urogenital trichomoniasis
Urogenital trichomoniasis as a cause of vaginal discharge
Urogenital trichomoniasis is an inflammatory pathology of the genital tract of men and women, which is infectious in nature. This disease occurs as a result of exposure to a microorganism in the human body. Trichomonas vaginalis . Infection with this pathology occurs during sexual intercourse. A clear sign of the development of this disease is considered to be inflammation of the vaginal mucosa. In medicine, this condition is called vaginitis. If vaginitis develops, a woman experiences very strong foamy vaginal discharge with a very specific odor. With chronic vaginitis, the discharge becomes thick, yellow or white. In most cases, in addition to the discharge, the woman is also bothered by very severe itching in the external genital area.

Diagnosis of urogenital trichomoniasis
It is impossible to make an accurate diagnosis of urogenital trichomoniasis, taking into account only the presence of discharge and some other symptoms of this pathology.
To identify this pathology, studies such as:

  • A cultural research method is the cultivation of colonies of microorganisms taken from the vagina on special nutrient media and their further study.
  • Microscopic examination of unstained ( native) a smear taken from the vagina.
  • PCR (polymerase chain reaction) research method involving the study of genetic material Trichomonas vaginalis .
  • Microscopic examination of a stained vaginal smear. It is painted with special dyes.
Therapy for urogenital trichomoniasis is possible only if the woman has been given a truly accurate diagnosis of this pathology. Among the most effective medications used in the fight against this pathology are: Nimorazole, Metronidazole , Ornidazole, Tinidazole and others. It is very important that the treatment of this disease is carried out under the vigilant supervision of a doctor. Self-treatment in this case is not recommended, since this pathology can become chronic if not treated properly. As a rule, during therapy for urogenital trichomoniasis, vaginal discharge initially becomes weaker, and then disappears completely. It is also important to draw the attention of readers to the fact that the absence of discharge does not mean complete healing, so the course of treatment must be completed to the end. How long it will last will be determined by your attending physician.

Bacterial vaginosis as a reason contributing to the development of vaginal discharge
Bacterial vaginosis is a very common pathology accompanied by discharge that has an unpleasant odor. This disease occurs as a result of a very strong growth of bacteria directly on the vaginal mucosa. In a healthy state, these bacteria are also present in the vagina, but only in very small quantities. These can be counted as Peptococci, so Gerdenerella vaginalis , Bacteroides and others. With the development of this pathology, a woman experiences white vaginal discharge with a fishy odor. To make a diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis, information about the presence of discharge alone is not enough.

Diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis involves the use of such research methods as:

  • pH-metry, or detection of the acidity of the vaginal environment. In a normal state, the vagina has an acidic environment, but in the case of bacterial vaginosis, it becomes alkaline.
As soon as the diagnosis is made, the doctor will immediately prescribe effective treatment of this disease.

Therapy for bacterial vaginosis involves the use of local drugs, namely:

  • Vaginal suppositories clindamycin ( one hundred milligrams) – must be inserted into the vagina once a day for six days.
  • Metronidazole gel seventy-five percent - must be inserted into the vagina once a day for five days.
There are also cases when systemic medications are used in the fight against this pathology:
  • Ornisid forte should be taken orally five hundred milligrams in the morning and evening for five days.
  • Clindamycin Take three hundred milligram capsules in the morning and evening for seven days.
  • Metronidazole(Trichopolum) in the form of tablets of two hundred and fifty milligrams. You should take two tablets morning and evening for seven days.

Urogenital candidiasis (thrush) as a cause contributing to the occurrence of vaginal discharge
Urogenital candidiasis is an inflammatory pathology of the genital organs in women and men, resulting from exposure to fungi of the genus Candida. In women with the development of this disease, white thick discharge is observed. In addition, they may experience discomfort and itching in the genital area. Quite often, this disease also causes pain and cramping during urination.

Diagnosis of thrush involves the use of the following research methods:

  • Examination under a microscope of unstained smears taken from the vagina.
  • Examination under a microscope of smears taken from the vagina stained with special dyes.
  • Mycological study, which involves the detection of the type of fungus that provoked the development of urogenital candidiasis.
Therapy for urogenital candidiasis is determined by the pathogenesis of the disease: if a woman experiences infrequent exacerbations of this disease, then to combat it she is prescribed medications such as:
  • Clotrimazole vaginal tablets two hundred milligrams - must be inserted into the vagina once a day for three days.
  • Clotrimazole vaginal cream one percent should be inserted into the vagina once a day for seven to fourteen days.
  • Isoconazole– vaginal suppositories of six hundred milligrams. It is recommended to insert into the vagina once.
If exacerbations of urogenital candidiasis occur more than four times a year, and the woman experiences very strong, thick white discharge, then systemic medications in tablet form are used:
  • Itraconazole (Irunin, Orungal) should be taken two hundred milligrams once a day for three days.
  • Fluconazole ( Diflucan, Flucostat, Mikomax) - used according to several treatment regimens: one hundred and fifty milligrams once, or one hundred milligrams on the first, fourth, and seventh day of therapy.
Local therapy for infectious and inflammatory diseases of the female reproductive system not only allows the destruction of pathogenic microorganisms, but also inevitably leads to an imbalance in the beneficial microflora of the vagina and a decrease in local immunity. If you do not quickly restore the lactoflora, activation of opportunistic microflora is possible, which will lead to an exacerbation of thrush or bacterial infections. For the same reason, antifungal therapy for vaginal candidiasis may not be effective enough. Therefore, it is important, after the first stage of treatment aimed at eliminating the infection, to carry out the second stage - to restore the balance of beneficial microflora with the help of Lactozhinal capsules. This is the only one registered in the territory Russian Federation tribiotic drug. Laktozhinal quickly restores the pH and microflora of the vagina and protects for a long time from re-exacerbation of bacterial vaginosis and thrush. Two-step therapy has recently become the gold standard for the treatment of conditions accompanied by pathological discharge. Many experts are confident that only this method can provide a pronounced and long-term therapeutic effect, strengthen local immunity, which serves as the prevention of subsequent exacerbations.

In the fight against severe forms of this pathology, rather complex combinations and regimens of antifungal medications are used, which are prescribed to the patient by his attending physician.
Self-medication for any of the above ailments is impossible. Sometimes vaginal discharge is the result of several infectious pathologies at once. Under such circumstances, a course of therapy can only be prescribed by a specialist, and then only after he has the results of all the necessary studies.

Vaginal discharge during pregnancy
Vaginal discharge is especially alarming to expectant mothers, since during this period they are responsible not only for themselves, but also for the child. In fact, every pregnant woman should pay special attention to the nature of vaginal discharge so that right moment"sound the alarm."

Discharge in early pregnancy
A little higher, we said that copious clear discharge in the first months of pregnancy, which is not endowed with a specific odor, is normal.
If a woman experiences spotting during this period, then this may be a signal of an unexpected miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Whitish or purulent vaginal discharge in the early stages of pregnancy is considered to be a sign of the development of one or another infectious pathology.

Discharge in late pregnancy
In the second trimester of pregnancy, in a healthy pregnant woman, vaginal discharge may acquire a thicker and more viscous consistency. This phenomenon is normal. If vaginal discharge is bloody, this may serve as a signal of the onset of premature labor or miscarriage, so in such cases, emergency hospitalization of the expectant mother is recommended. Vaginal discharge brown in late pregnancy quite often occur due to minor bleeding from the vessels of the cervix. In this case, a pregnant woman should also visit a doctor.

When should you see a doctor for vaginal discharge?

Every woman and girl may have normal and pathological vaginal discharge. Normal discharge is caused by natural physiological processes occurring in the body, and therefore is not a sign of pathology and does not require visiting a doctor. But pathological discharge is caused by various diseases, so if they appear, you need to consult a doctor. Accordingly, in order to understand when you need to see a doctor for vaginal discharge, you need to know which discharge is pathological and which is normal.

Normal discharge is small in volume, translucent, transparent or whitish in color, watery, creamy or jelly-like consistency, with a slight sour odor. Normal discharge does not irritate the genitals and does not cause discomfort, itching, redness or swelling. Also, normal discharge does not emit a strong or unpleasant odor (for example, fishy odor, strong sour odor, etc.).

In addition, slight bloody or brownish discharge 2 to 4 days before and after menstruation is considered normal. Light spotting for several days during ovulation is also considered normal.

Bloody discharge not before or after menstruation, and also not during ovulation, is considered pathological. In addition, discharge of a greenish, yellowish, grayish, earthy color, containing impurities of pus, blood, flakes, bubbles, having a cheesy or other heterogeneous consistency, emitting an unpleasant pungent odor or causing itching, burning, swelling, redness and discomfort in the genital area, is pathological. organs.

Which doctor should I contact if I have pathological vaginal discharge?

For any pathological discharge, a woman should consult a doctor obstetrician-gynecologist (make an appointment). If the discharge causes discomfort, itching, redness, burning or swelling in the genital area, the woman can contact an obstetrician-gynecologist or venereologist (make an appointment), since such symptoms indicate the presence of an infectious-inflammatory process, which can be treated by both a gynecologist and a venereologist.

If, within two weeks after sexual intercourse, the nature of the discharge changes, impurities of pus, mucus, flakes or bubbles appear in it, they turn greenish, yellowish, grayish or earthy in color, and begin to emit an unpleasant odor, then the woman can also consult a venereologist or a gynecologist, since such discharge indicates infection with an infectious disease.

What tests can doctors prescribe for vaginal discharge?

The list of tests and examinations that a doctor can prescribe for vaginal discharge depends on the nature of the discharge, accompanying symptoms and the results of a gynecological examination.

First of all, for any type of discharge, the doctor prescribes a gynecological bimanual examination (by hand) and examination of the tissues of the vagina and cervix in the speculum. These studies are considered routine and are carried out without fail when a woman goes to a medical facility regarding vaginal discharge of any nature.

Further, if there is quite heavy bleeding (blood discharge, as during menstruation, in the same or greater quantities), the doctor usually prescribes ultrasound examination (ultrasound) (sign up) and/or separate diagnostic scraping (sign up). Moreover, an ultrasound is performed first, and if the ultrasound results reveal a neoplasm in the uterus (for example, fibroids, polyps, etc.) or endometriosis, then separate diagnostic curettage is not performed, since it is not necessary. In such a situation, if a neoplasm is detected, the doctor may prescribe hysteroscopy (make an appointment) or suggest surgery to remove the formation. If endometriosis is detected, the doctor prescribes a determination of the concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone in the woman’s blood. In addition, in some cases, diagnostic tests are prescribed for endometriosis. laparoscopy (make an appointment). If ultrasound results reveal endometrial hyperplasia, miscarriage, etc. against the background of bleeding, then curettage is prescribed.

If the bleeding is minor or is of the nature of spotting, then during the examination the doctor will determine the condition of the cervix and vaginal tissue. If there is damage to the cervix, for example, erosion, trauma intrauterine device or other subject, then it is assigned colposcopy (sign up) for itching, burning, swelling, redness and discomfort in the genital area) the doctor always prescribes first flora smear (sign up), which allows you to identify a number of the following infectious diseases: candidiasis, trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis (bacterial vaginosis), gonorrhea (sign up). These sexually transmitted infections are the most common compared to others, and therefore at the first stage the doctor does not prescribe more expensive and complex tests, because a simple smear on the flora allows them to be detected.

If, based on the results of the smear, it was possible to identify candidiasis, trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis or gonorrhea, then the doctor can go in two ways - either immediately prescribe treatment, or take a smear from the vagina for bacteriological and mycological culture to determine which antibiotics and antifungal agents will be most destructive in relation to the infectious agent present in a particular case. If the immediately prescribed treatment turns out to be ineffective, the doctor prescribes bacteriological or mycological culture.

If, according to the results of the smear, no infectious agents were detected, but there is a picture of inflammation, then the doctor prescribes more complex tests to identify pathogenic microbes. Usually, first of all, an analysis of vaginal discharge is prescribed for the presence of Trichomonas and gonococci using the PCR method and blood test for syphilis (treponema pallidum) (sign up), since these are the pathogens that occur most often. If the results of the analysis reveal any, then treatment is prescribed.

If gonococci, Trichomonas or Treponema pallidum are not detected, then ureaplasma test (sign up), chlamydia (sign up), mycoplasma (sign up), gardnerella, bacteroides. Tests for these pathogens can be different - bacteriological culture, PCR, ELISA and various methods of collecting and staining vaginal smears. The choice of analysis is made by the doctor and depends mainly on the technical capabilities of the medical institution or on the financial capabilities of the patient, since the most accurate tests most often have to be taken in private laboratories for a fee.

If the test results reveal the absence of trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, syphilis, candidiasis, ureaplasmosis, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis and gardnerellosis, but there is an inflammatory process in the genitals, then the doctor may prescribe tests for the presence of viruses - herpes virus types 1 and 2, human papillomavirus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, which can also provoke inflammation in the female genital organs.

Pregnant women who suspect leakage of amniotic fluid are usually prescribed a vaginal smear test for scales. In addition, there are pharmacy, ready-to-use tests for leakage of amniotic fluid, which are similar in principle to pregnancy tests. A pregnant woman can use such tests independently. Otherwise, when inflammatory vaginal discharge appears, pregnant women are prescribed the same tests as non-pregnant women. And if bleeding occurs during pregnancy, women are sent to the hospital for examination, since in such a situation they can be a sign of pregnancy complications.

What does discharge in early pregnancy tell you?

There are contraindications. Before use, you should consult a specialist.

Every woman of childbearing age experiences white mucous discharge. At different periods of the menstrual cycle, such discharge may have a certain consistency and color. This is a normal process, but you need to know which are normal and which indicate various pathologies (they are called leucorrhoea). In the second case, it is useful to familiarize yourself with information on how to treat discharge in women at home.

About the nature of the discharge

When visiting a gynecologist, many people complain of white vaginal discharge. Typically, such discharge should occur in the middle of the cycle, when ovulation occurs (the maturation and release of the egg), as well as just before the start of menstruation. The presence of white discharge is normal, but it should not be copious, have an unpleasant odor, be streaked with blood, or have streaks of a different color.

Important! Normally, every woman experiences discharge immediately after menstruation. They are pale milk. The amount of mucus increases towards ovulation, and the discharge acquires the consistency of egg white. And by the end of menstruation, they become like a viscous liquid and have a slightly brown tint.

As for the secretion of clear mucus, this is also a natural process in women, especially during sexual arousal or pregnancy. If the discharge is of the described nature and does not bother you, then, most likely, no pathological processes are occurring in the body (only a doctor can accurately exclude the development of diseases).

What causes excessive leucorrhoea:

Important! It will be quite difficult to distinguish leucorrhoea from normal discharge on your own. They are often accompanied by unpleasant sensations in the genital area. Often pathological discharge acquires a green or yellow tint, has a cheesy consistency, and an unpleasant odor.

We distinguish discharge by color and smell

Yellow discharge in women

An accurate diagnosis cannot be determined by the color of the discharge, so you need to see a doctor and get tested. The only thing that can be said in response to how to treat yellow discharge is that a healthy woman should not have whiteness of this color. Determining the nature of the symptom that appears helps to more accurately and correctly select treatment, which is also based on the individual characteristics of the body. With such signs, it is strictly forbidden to self-medicate, so as not to distort the entire medical history.

The cause of yellow discharge may be:

  • adnexitis;
  • colpitis;
  • vaginitis;
  • allergy;
  • salpingitis;
  • erosion;
  • trichomoniasis;
  • chlamydia;
  • gonorrhea.

Green discharge

Green discharge most often indicates the presence of inflammatory processes in the urinary or reproductive system. Discharge of this color requires immediate examination by a gynecologist. The causes of these types of symptoms can be diseases:

  • trichomoniasis;
  • gonorrhea;
  • vaginosis;
  • low immunity;
  • stress;
  • medical supplies;
  • pregnancy.

The discharge is accompanied by itching, burning, and pain. It is necessary to undergo tests: first of all, a smear, which can determine the reaction, the nature of the symptom. If you do not react in time and do not get rid of the discharge, the disease will become chronic. In this case, long-term treatment will be required.

Sour odor in discharge

Such discharge may be accompanied by itching and burning. Most often, this confirms inflammation of the vaginal mucosa. Smell what the discharge smells like. White discharge with a sour odor may indicate thrush. Such symptoms require examination by a gynecologist. The doctor must take a smear, which will determine the cause, and based on this, treatment will be prescribed. Antifungal drugs are usually prescribed, and supplements include traditional medicine: douching, washing. In advanced forms, antibiotics are prescribed; both partners need to be treated.

Important! Pinkish discharge may indicate the development of erosion, dysplasia, different types tumors.

Curdled discharge

The curdled consistency of the leucorrhoea indicates the presence of fungal infections, which lead to itching. May cause itching in women and odorless discharge. The appearance of such a fungus is called thrush. It is accompanied by unpleasant sensations and interferes with leading a full life.

To cure the problem, suppositories, tablets, and capsules are used. Medicines for leucorrhoea in women that a doctor can prescribe:

  • Miconazole;
  • Pimafucin;
  • Ketaconozole;
  • Clotrimazole;
  • Flucanazole;
  • Nystatin.

Treatment requires diet. Here sample diet for leucorrhoea in women, which prohibits the consumption of the following products:

  • coffee and carbonated drinks;
  • dairy products;
  • alcoholic drinks, low alcohol drinks, beer;
  • spicy dishes, sweets, sweet fruits;
  • yeast baked goods.

During treatment it is necessary to abstain from sexual activity.

Purulent discharge

The main factors that influenced the appearance of this symptom are:

  • inflammation of the cervix;
  • adnexitis;
  • colpitis, vulvovaginitis.

The appearance of purulent discharge suggests the presence of the following diseases in these organs:

  • trichomoniasis;
  • vaginitis;
  • inflammation of the ovaries.

Treatment is prescribed after testing and determining the cause of the symptom; this is done by a specialist - a gynecologist. If purulent discharge is accompanied by vomiting, high temperature, then hospital treatment is necessary.

Most often, for such symptoms, antibacterial drugs, antiviral drugs and suppositories with herbal extracts are prescribed.

Fishy-smelling discharge

The appearance of such a symptom indicates the presence of bacteria and fungus. In this case, the microflora in the vagina is disrupted, and gardnerellosis subsequently develops. This disease is not sexually transmitted, but can be transmitted sexually.

Causes of gardnarellosis:

  • weakened immune system;
  • hormonal disorders, abortion;
  • pregnancy, postpartum period;
  • diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • lack of hygiene;
  • change of sexual partners;
  • contraceptives;
  • antibiotics;
  • cyst, polyps;
  • foreign bodies;
  • consequence of surgery.

Discharge from the urethra

Such discharge most often occurs in women with urethritis. After diagnosis, treatment begins. It is recommended to take antibiotics that will be more sensitive to microflora:

  • Fluoroquinols include Ofloxacin and Ciprofloxacin;
  • from the group of macrolides – Azithromycin;
  • when prescribing semisynthetic penicillins, use Augmentin, Amoxiclav;
  • if necessary, cephalosparins - Ceftriaxone.

Important! Brown discharge with a strong unpleasant odor is a reason to immediately consult a doctor!

Treatment at home

How to cure leucorrhoea? Treatment of discharge in women at home must be approached using comprehensive methods. Both traditional medicine and drug treatment are used together with correction of one’s diet and lifestyle.

Normalization of nutrition

The first step in how to treat discharge in women at home is to normalize your diet. It is necessary to exclude fatty foods and canned foods. During the treatment period, you should rely on fresh juices from celery and carrots, parsley, spinach and sorrel. The diet should include strawberries, blueberries, viburnum berries and barberries.

Hygiene of intimate places

Compliance with the rules of genital hygiene will help normalize the condition and prevent many women's problems. It is necessary to maintain the natural microflora of the vagina, which in itself can protect against many bacteria and fungi. You should wash twice a day (no more), using special products for hygiene of intimate places (it’s good if the composition contains lactic acid).

  1. Drink fresh juices from carrots, celery, spinach, other greens and green vegetables.
  2. Drink plain water with lemon juice.
  3. Rinse the external genitalia in warm water. You need to fill a basin with water and sit there for about 20 minutes.
  4. You can also make warm baths with pine or pine extracts added to the water. To prepare the extract, you need to pour three liters of water into 150 grams of dry pine. Boil for 40 minutes over low heat, strain.
  5. If the discharge is heavy (as well as during painful periods), you can drink ordinary nettle juice three times a day in the amount of a dessert spoon.

The following tools are also used:

  1. Pour a tablespoon of dried blueberry leaves into a glass of boiling water. Boil for 15 minutes in a water bath, cool and strain the broth, douche the vagina before bed.
  2. You can add two liters of boiling water to three tablespoons of dry St. John's wort. Boil for thirty minutes over low heat, cool and strain through cheesecloth, use for douching twice a day.
  3. Add a mug of boiling water to a tablespoon of immortal sandstone flowers. Cook for 10 minutes, leave for another 30 minutes. Take the decoction 50 ml orally before meals.

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor and follow his recommendations.

How douching can help?

Therapeutic effect for leucorrhoea different types can be achieved by periodically douching. The material already indicates several decoctions that are suitable for these purposes. You can also use a decoction of dry mistletoe leaves for douching (pour 500 ml of water over a large spoonful of leaves, cook for 15 minutes, cool and strain).

Oak bark

For discharge, oak bark is excellent as a decoction for vaginal douching. Pour a liter of boiling water into a tablespoon of dry bark and cook for 20 minutes. Use by straining when the broth has cooled well.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus leaves will also help in this matter. In this situation, add 500 ml of boiling water to two tablespoons of leaves, cook for 15 minutes, cool.

What else is suitable for vaginal douching:

  • add 0.2 liters of water to a teaspoon of dry meadowsweet herb. Put on fire and boil for 20 minutes;
  • Calendula flowers will help get rid of all pathogenic bacteria on the vaginal mucosa. You need to pour a large spoon of calendula with a glass of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, wrapped in a warm cloth;
  • Pour a tablespoon of St. John's wort into a glass of boiling water. Keep covered for 30 minutes, be sure to chill and pass the broth through cheesecloth;
  • The plum roots need to be crushed and poured with a cup of boiling water. Cook for about an hour, be sure to strain before using.

Treatment with tablets

Drugs are divided into 2 types:

  • for local use (vaginal tablets, suppositories);
  • general action (more often used for severe forms).

Often a one-time appointment is prescribed:

  • Flucanazole (analogues of the drug - Flucostat, Diflucan, Mikosist, Mikomax, Ciskan, Diflazon, Mikoflucan);
  • Itraconazole (analogues - Irunin, Itrazol, Orunit);
  • Ketoconazole (Nizoral, Mycozoral);
  • Pimafucin.

The dosage of all drugs is determined by the doctor, as well as the course of treatment. During this period, it is recommended to take vitamins.

Ways to treat discharge in women at home will help reduce the amount of leucorrhoea. But they will not get rid of the main problem that is caused by the process. So you shouldn’t put off going to the doctor until later.

The most common problem with which people consult a gynecologist is discharge. For women, this phenomenon causes concern. Of course, you should panic for this reason, but refusing to consult a doctor is also not an option. Discharge in women may be normal, but in most cases this type of phenomenon is caused by infection, fungus or other harmful microorganisms. What kind of secretion is normal, and when to sound the alarm - we’ll find out now.

Normal discharge: signs and causes

Due to lactobacilli that are found in the vagina, discharge is often white in color. Thus, a favorable environment for conception is created, and the development and growth of harmful microorganisms is blocked.

Signs of normal discharge:

  • transparent in color, white, cream sometimes with a yellowish tint;
  • do not have a specific odor;
  • consistency: liquid, slightly watery, less often similar to egg white;
  • in quantity they should not exceed 1 tsp;
  • are more pronounced after sexual intercourse, during sexual arousal, and before menstruation.

The reasons for this kind of phenomenon are often several main factors that every woman experiences in life. After sexual intercourse, the appearance of white secretions within 24 hours is normal. During the period of ovulation, white liquid discharge may be observed for one or two days. During pregnancy, perhaps, this phenomenon occurs most often, but there is no need to worry about it. It is recommended to consult a specialist if red and brownish streaks appear.

  1. During pregnancy. Occurs due to hormonal dysfunction. The blood supply to the genital organs increases, and clear snot-like discharge appears. In the third trimester, the production of mucous structures increases. Liquid secretion can be called a pathology exclusively before childbirth.
  2. After childbirth. During this period, after 6–8 weeks of bleeding, the woman again experiences clear, odorless discharge, as was the case before childbirth. The pathology is discharge with an unpleasant odor, color, and also accompanied by itching and burning.
  3. After menstruation. The presence of mucous leucorrhoea during this period is the norm for every woman. As in other cases, deviations are considered: changes in color, smell and the manifestation of various symptoms of irritation.

Mucus discharge

A mucous secretion is considered normal. They become opaque on linen during the day due to the presence of epithelial cells. The secretion of mucus, which does not have a pungent odor and does not cause discomfort, is also a confirmation normal operation ovaries.

During the day, a woman may secrete approximately 2 ml of secretion. Don't worry if it has a white tint, as this is a result of cleaning the vagina. The structure and quantity are directly related to the phases of the menstrual cycle.

  1. From 1 to 7 days. A secretion of a pink or brown hue is released, which increases in volume from the second to third days and may be accompanied by the release of clots. By the fifth day, the release of this type of secretion decreases, and for some it disappears completely.
  2. From 5 to 14 days. During this period, the egg matures. There is no significant appearance of leucorrhoea at this time; it can be released up to about 2 ml per day. Color may vary from white to yellow.
  3. From 14 to 15 days. Ovulation period. This period is characterized by the greatest secretion of mucus due to estrogen reaching its maximum level. Often at this time, watery discharge is observed, as well as sticky and more stretchy discharge.
  4. From 16 to 28 days. Premenstrual period. The work of the reproductive system subsides, the volume of secretion released becomes smaller, but at the end of the cycle a new surge is possible.

In addition, such a phenomenon may be the result of climate change, a stressful situation, the use of hormonal drugs, allergies and failure to comply with hygiene rules.

Watery discharge like water in the first weeks is a sign of pregnancy. But if an unpleasant odor is added to them, this is a sure sign of infection in the body.

Important! Liquid, transparent discharge in the third trimester is a “bell” about the possibility of premature birth.

White discharge

In general, white secret is also considered the norm for female body. But there are enough signs that signal pathology.

These signs are normal. Their quantity is insignificant, and as well as consistency varies depending on the menstrual cycle. They are harmless: they do not irritate the mucous membrane, external genitalia and skin. Rather, they perform beneficial properties: they cleanse the walls of the uterus and vagina from germs.

White liquid discharge is the result of gland secretion. They are responsible for several functions important for the female body.

  1. Hydration. When moving, the body serves as a barrier to mechanical damage. This reduces the risk of injury during sexual intercourse.
  2. Exchange and nutrition. The glandular secretion takes part in metabolic processes, thereby providing cells with useful substances and destroys unnecessary products.
  3. Cleansing. The layered structure of the vaginal epithelium regularly gets rid of the top layer, and new cells are formed in the same place. The secretion produced washes away the obsolete layer from the surface.
  4. Protection. With good immunity, thanks to leucorrhoea, the mucous membrane copes well with inflammatory processes. The glandular structures produce more secretion, which prevents microbes from penetrating deeper into the layers.

Sour smell of discharge

This symptom indicates the presence of thrush in the body. Another confirmation is the fact that they are curd. General signs may be blurred and occasionally appear.

Often, this type of phenomenon is caused by several main factors: hormonal changes in the body, pregnancy, stressful situations, increased fatigue and overwork. Thrush can also be a consequence of eating spicy food, allergies, climate change, taking antibacterial drugs, or damage to the mucous membrane during sexual intercourse. Undoubtedly, this phenomenon is influenced by wearing low-quality synthetic underwear and non-compliance with hygiene rules.

Important! The treatment of thrush should be handled exclusively by a doctor; only he can adequately determine the causes and prescribe the correct treatment. Douching with soda, chamomile and potassium permanganate can lead to complications.

This manifestation of the body indicates the presence of reasons negative character. The presence of a mucous secretion similar to snot requires mandatory and immediate examination in several cases.

If leucorrhoea comes out in copious amounts, then most likely this is a sign of thrush. If they are accompanied by an unpleasant odor, it may be bacterial vaginosis. We can definitely say that the presence of these signs indicates problems with women’s health.

White discharge, itching and causes

Thrush and bacterial vaginosis also cause these symptoms. The reasons for which can be various factors: hidden infections, diabetes, poor nutrition. The presence of these signs prevents a woman from leading a full life. To get rid of an unpleasant illness, you need to consult a specialist. In this case, doctors prescribe pills and vaginal suppositories. Bacterial vaginosis can only be determined by undergoing appropriate tests.

Thick white discharge

The appearance of thick leucorrhoea can be prevented. But for this it is important to follow some guidelines.

  • do not douche with chloride preparations;
  • you should not change sexual partners frequently;
  • Before using any medications, carefully study the instructions;
  • Observe hygiene rules and change pads more often during menstruation.

Yellow discharge

If yellow leucorrhoea does not cause any discomfort and is not accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, then most likely there is no reason to worry. Although, according to experts, the norm for secretion is white and transparent, in many cases it turns yellow when it gets on underwear. Therefore, we do not necessarily have to talk about the inflammatory process. Perhaps the reason lies in changes in hormonal levels, taking birth control pills and stress. Also, the release of yellow secretion with clots can be observed after sexual intercourse, if the semen gets into the vagina.

Yellow discharge with odor

Yellowish discharge with an odor most often indicates sexually transmitted diseases. Their causative agents are microorganisms that provoke discomfort, burning and inflammation. In addition, the woman experiences severe itching and irritation. In some cases, the disease is combined with other infections.

  1. Chlamydia. Yellow discharge is noticeable when examined on the cervical canal and flows down the walls of the vagina.
  2. Trichomoniasis. The secreted secretion has a rotten odor, is foamy in structure, and abundant in volume.
  3. Gonorrhea. The discharge is not particularly large. They are yellow-white in color, sometimes brown streaks appear or bloody secretions appear. A woman may feel nagging pain in the lumbar region.
  4. Thrush. Curdled yellow-white discharge with a sour odor.
  5. Ureaplasmosis and mycoplasmosis. In appearance they resemble normal vaginal discharge. There is redness in the genital area, and the woman feels itching.
  6. Bacterial vaginitis. There is a fishy smell and copious discharge.

Important! Chronic diseases: erosion of the cervix, inflammation of the uterine appendages and in the fallopian tubes are indicated by yellow discharge in small quantities.

Secretion that is brown in color often indicates the presence of blood in it. Depending on the amount of blood, the discharge gives different shades: red, pink and brown. The secreted secretion with a brown tint appears in the case of a minor source, since before it comes out, the blood coagulates and, as a result, darkens.

The causes of brown discharge can be different. This phenomenon is accompanied by many factors. Let's consider in what situations it is safe and when a doctor is required.

  1. Mechanical damage to the mucosa. These include douching, abortion, cauterization, erosion, and birth trauma. If damage occurred during gynecological manipulations, the doctor must warn the patient about this. Brown discharge often does not require special treatment; after injury, the epithelium recovers on its own.
  2. Intermenstrual period. Occurs due to hormonal disorders or taking contraceptives.
  3. Inflammatory changes. The mucous membranes become more sensitive and are easily injured, and as a result they begin to bleed.
  4. Intrauterine device. In the place where the spiral is attached there is a small area of ​​inflammation, so it is easy to injure the epithelium. If this phenomenon occurs on an ongoing basis, it is necessary to remove the spiral.

In addition, pseudo-erosion can also cause brown discharge. The mucous membrane where the ectopia is located is usually inflamed and may bleed. If brown secretion appears after a delay, then you need to take a pregnancy test. During the postpartum period, women secrete lochia, which also has different colors from red to brown. They go away on their own and do not require treatment.

Important! But still, brown discharge deserves special attention, since sometimes it can be the cause of a polyp, endometriosis or fibroids.

Often, almost all discharge is a consequence of the inflammatory process of the cervix, fallopian tubes, vagina and ovaries. The green tint of the secretion is due to the content of leukocytes. Discharges of this nature are called leukorrhea, often a manifestation of a bacterial infection.

Symptoms of pathological discharge:

  • copious discharge with a specific color, independent of the day of the menstrual cycle;
  • the secreted secretion can be of any color, appears before menstruation or in the middle of the cycle, and is also accompanied by a burning sensation, unpleasant odor and pain in the abdomen;
  • spotting before and after menstruation, which can be expressed as bleeding in the middle of the menstrual cycle;
  • a sharp decrease or increase in bleeding during menstruation.

Green discharge without odor

Greenish, odorless discharge may be caused by bacterial vaginosis. The causes of this disease are many factors: stress, taking antibacterial drugs, weak immunity, pregnancy, and insufficient care of the intimate area.

Bacterial vaginosis leads to a disruption in the composition of the microflora and tests can show gardnerellosis. With this disease, a gray-white or green secretion is released, it has a fishy smell, which peels off as a film. The disease also results in painful urination and pain during sexual intercourse.

Another cause of green secretion is trichomoniasis. This disease is difficult to diagnose; it produces a small amount of secretion, and the irritation of the genital organs is not particularly strong.

The next reason is acute inflammation. In diseases that are chronic in nature, leucorrhoea may not be very pronounced. If the disease is at the initial stage of development, you should expect heavy discharge. In some inflammatory processes, the temperature may rise from 37 to 37.5 °C.

Important! Green discharge requires the intervention of a doctor.

Causes of purulent discharge

It is the green and yellow-green secretion, for which proper treatment was not received, that is the cause of purulent discharge. In other words, we can say that these are complications of certain diseases.

  • trichomoniasis;
  • vaginitis;
  • acute inflammatory processes of the ovaries, fallopian tubes and cervix.

Important! Purulent discharge should not be left without proper attention! This is the first “call” about visiting a gynecologist.

Prevention

To avoid pathological discharge, it is worth paying the necessary attention to prevention. When having sexual intercourse (if you doubt your sexual partner), be sure to use condoms - this will help prevent the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Pay special attention to your diet, it should be balanced. Eating sweets in large quantities provokes candidiasis. Include more probiotic foods in your diet that help normalize microflora.

Use special products for intimate hygiene. Scented gels cause irritation, which leads to many diseases. Also, forget about using scented pads and tampons. Give preference to cotton products, avoid synthetics.

The presence of a small amount of vaginal discharge in women is a normal physiological phenomenon. But their abundance, uncharacteristic color or unpleasant odor may be a symptom of a gynecological disease....


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