What discharge is considered the norm in women. Causes and nature of normal discharge in women
Normal discharge in women
The content of the article:The nature of the vaginal discharge depends on the hormonal background and the presence / absence of a genital infection. Normal discharge from a woman is not abundant, transparent or milky in color, not accompanied by any discomfort, with a characteristic sour smell. A change in color, quantity, consistency does not always indicate a pathological process, but any symptom of trouble should be alarming, so it is important to visit a gynecologist. Consider the most common causes of pathological vaginal discharge. They may be the following:
Non-infectious (allergies, use of vaginal suppositories, local contraceptives);
caused by ectopia of the ureter; fistula;
against the background of STIs (chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, mycoplasmosis, etc.);
with erosion of the cervix;
associated with the presence of a foreign body in the vagina, for example, with a forgotten tampon;
nonspecific inflammatory process;
with candidiasis (thrush), bacterial vaginosis;
against the background of neoplasms of the uterus and its cervix:
after surgical interventions, for example, after cauterization of cervical erosion.
Somewhat increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy is physiological, since an increase in secretion occurs against the background of hormonal changes. Pathology does not include discharge during arousal, during the release of an egg, during and after intimacy. This is true if there is no discomfort, redness of the mucosa and blood in the absence of menstruation.
Why do you need vaginal discharge?
Their main functions are to maintain local immunity, participate in the processes of natural cleansing and moisturizing the walls of the vagina. The secret is produced by glands localized in the mucous membrane of the vestibule of the vagina, neck. A certain amount of fluid sweats out of the supply vessels, discharge from the uterus comes out transvaginally (a small amount of fluid and desquamated epithelium). All this is white. The vagina is inhabited by many beneficial and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms. Lactobacilli contribute to the creation of an acidic environment, which prevents the reproduction of pathogenic and opportunistic flora. The mucus produced by the cervical glands protects the cervix from infection. Normally, vaginal discharge is from 1 to 5 ml / day.
In a smaller amount compared to lactobacilli, fungi, cocci, enterobacteria, etc. are present in the vagina.
Important! Physiological watery or thick vaginal discharge is the result of natural processes and indicates the reproductive health of a girl or woman.
Vaginal discharge in girls
The physiology of the girl is somewhat different: before the onset of puberty, there should not be any pronounced secretion from the vagina. Scanty liquid discharge is allowed.
Wet underwear is a reason to consult a doctor. Close to the vagina is the urethra, the rectum, if the discharge appeared from there - this is a sign of pathology. In addition, with developmental anomalies, for example, when the external mouth of the ureter opens into the vagina, there will be a constant leakage of urine.
Watery discharge is allowed 12 - 14 months before the onset of menarche - the first menstruation. An attentive mother will pay attention to an increase in the mammary glands, signs of hair growth in the armpit and in the intimate area of \u200b\u200bthe daughter.
How does the nature of the discharge from the vagina change during the cycle
Conventionally, the following phases of the menstrual cycle are distinguished: the first half, ovulation and the second half. Every woman has an average cycle of 28 to 32 days. In the first half, the discharge is liquid, of a homogeneous consistency, often transparent, but a whitish or slightly yellowish tint is allowed. The smell is absent or has a sour note.
During the period of ovulation (the release of a mature egg from the follicle), on days 13–15, the type of vaginal mucus changes: it becomes transparent, stretches well, the color may be white or beige, and its amount increases.
In the second half of the phase of the menstrual cycle, the volume of discharge decreases, the consistency resembles jelly. Color - whitish, with a yellow tinge, but there may be transparent discharge. A few days (1 - 2) before the onset of menstruation, the discharge becomes mucous and acquires a rich creamy hue. So the uterus prepares for the rejection of the endometrium.
If fertilization occurs in this cycle, then under favorable conditions, pregnancy develops, and there may be increased secretions in the form of mucus. As hCG and progesterone increase, white, odorless discharge or, conversely, with a sour smell appear. It depends on the initial composition of the microflora of the vagina.
Discharge during menopause is normal
The natural aging of the body, the extinction of the reproductive function and the decrease in the content of female sex hormones are associated with menopause. Allocations during this period undergo changes: against the background of hypoestrogenism, their number decreases, the composition of the microflora changes: there are fewer lactic acid bacteria, and more coccal representatives. During premenopause, colpitis, an inflammation of the vagina, often joins. Over time, the condition comes to a physiological norm, as the hormonal background stabilizes. The menstrual cycle begins to go astray - menstruation comes earlier or is delayed, the discharge is plentiful or scarce, smearing. The period of menstruation is from 2 to 12 days. This can continue until the complete cessation of menstruation. Each woman has her own period of menopause, recently doctors have noted a tendency to early manifestation (38 - 40 years) of its symptoms.
Many women report hot flashes (a feeling of unexplained heat), mood swings, insomnia, urinary incontinence, and high blood pressure.
During menopause, there is practically no discharge from the vagina. Some patients complain of vaginal dryness, vascular fragility. In this case, the gynecologist may suggest hormone replacement therapy, provided there is a confirmed decrease in estrogen levels and there are no contraindications to hormone replacement therapy.
When the nature of vaginal discharge may change
Beginning of sexual relations
With the onset of sexual activity, the glands of the vagina begin to work more intensively. In addition, during arousal before the introduction of the penis and during frictions (penetrations), the secretion of mucus increases significantly, it is viscous, transparent, and stretches well in consistency. After the first sexual intercourse within 3 days there may be an increased amount of discharge. Discomfort and the presence of brownish streaks are a consequence of the rupture of the hymen. If you are very worried, you can make a bath with chamomile or douche with soda, everything will pass in a few days.
Abundant mucous discharge during sex is a variant of the norm, indicating a good saturation of the hormonal background of a woman.
After sexual intercourse without a condom, with ejaculation in the vagina, after a while, yellowish spots with a specific smell are noticeable on the underwear. Liquefaction of sperm is a natural process, if pregnancy is planned, it is better to lie on your back for 1-2 hours. Otherwise, contraceptives and hygiene procedures are sufficient.
Change of sexual partner and the likelihood of sexually transmitted diseases
As you know, each person has his own qualitative and quantitative set of bacteria and microorganisms. When partners have been together for a long time, the microflora has long adapted, and there are no pathological manifestations after sex, provided that everyone is healthy.
During orgasm, sperm, along with the microflora of a man, enters the vagina, if immunity is reduced, then the development of vaginal dysbiosis, thrush, and nonspecific inflammation is expected. If vaginal discharge is present for more than 3 days, it is better to take swabs. Often increased secretion with discomfort accompanies sexually transmitted diseases.
Taking oral contraceptives
Abundant liquid discharge may be due to the use of hormonal drugs. The action of contraceptives is based on the suppression of egg maturation, therefore, the vaginal discharge is modified, i.e., there is no production of stretching mucus (reminiscent of egg white) in the absence of ovulation.
Wrong hygiene habits
The desire to achieve sterility in the vagina, with frequent washing out of all useful microflora, and even with the use of aggressive detergents, is the path to colpitis, dysbacteriosis, and vaginal dryness. For intimate hygiene, it is better to buy a product with a neutral environment.
Abundant discharge with a sour smell and itching, most likely symptoms of thrush.
Every day, a girl in her underwear can observe discharge. This process is normal - this is female physiology. However, whites can also be a signal that an infection or inflammation has appeared in the body, in which case they will have a characteristic shade and smell. This article will help you figure out which discharge in women is the norm, and which ones indicate a disease.
What discharge in women is considered normal
The physiology of a healthy female body is designed so that a woman will regularly have white leucorrhoea - this is the color of normal secretions. As a rule, they are odorless or it can be slightly sour, this is the normal smell of discharge. It is caused by the activity of lactobacilli, the internal environment of the vagina has a slightly acidic reaction. Its main task is to destroy infections, as well as create favorable conditions for conceiving and bearing a baby. In addition, in this way the vagina and labia are provided with the necessary lubrication.
Thus, mucous whites are the norm. They have a positive effect on women's health and protect the internal environment from infections. There are several signs by which a woman can independently determine that her discharge is not pathological and this is a normal physiological process:
- a different shade depending on the period of the cycle (white, cream, yellowish and transparent);
- practically do not have a smell;
- the consistency ranges from liquid to viscous;
- the daily amount may be different, but the discharge rate is not more than 5-6 ml;
- before critical days, after intimacy and during the period of sexual arousal, the amount of mucus increases significantly.
Important! What color is normal discharge? Depending on the period of the menstrual cycle, the shade can vary from white, almost transparent, to light cream.
Normally, in women, discharge begins to appear as soon as she reaches puberty. This is due to the formation of a normal hormonal background. Throughout the menstrual cycle, the amount and color of discharge constantly changes, as the content of the hormone estrogen changes in the blood. If we consider a normal female cycle, an average of 28 days, then a woman will observe the following changes in her body:
- 1-12 days after the end of menstruation is the first phase of the menstrual cycle. There are whites in a small amount. They are homogeneous, but sometimes there may be small white lumps. Their color can be white or yellowish, while a sour smell is felt;
- 13-15 day - this is the middle of the cycle, ovulation occurs. During this period, abundant viscous discharge is observed. Their shade can be beige, white or yellowish;
- Day 16-20 is the end of the cycle. The amount of mucus decreases, in consistency and they resemble liquid jelly. Their color can be white, transparent or slightly yellow. Brown leucorrhoea appears, which indicates the onset of menstruation, these are normal discharges before menstruation.
Norm and deviation: causes of whiter changes
White discharge in women is normal. Under the influence of the hormonal background, the nature of the whites changes. However, this process does not indicate any health problems. There are many reasons that affect the female hormonal background, which naturally affects the mucous secretions:
- the beginning of sexual activity or a change of partner. At this moment, the microflora of the vagina changes, which provokes changes in quantity and color;
- period during intimacy and after. This process is due to the fact that excitement provokes blood flow to the vessels of the genital organs, which is why mucus forms on the walls of the vagina. It is a natural lubricant that makes sexual intercourse painless and enjoyable for both partners;
- regular use of hormonal contraceptives. Medicines do not allow ovulation to occur, due to which the amount of lubricant is significantly reduced. This condition can be observed after childbirth and during lactation;
- during pregnancy. In late pregnancy, just before childbirth, there is a large amount of discharge;
- postpartum period. For a month, a woman will observe abundant bloody whites, reminiscent of menstruation. This is a normal, natural process, as mucus, dead cells and blood come out.
As a rule, physiological secretions are those that are odorless. However, a woman should not feel pain in the lower abdomen, and there should also be no burning and discomfort when urinating. The sour smell and cheesy nature of the discharge may be a sign of candidiasis or thrush. This pathology occurs quite often, it is accompanied by unpleasant sensations, so the woman feels discomfort. There are a lot of reasons for the appearance of thrush:
- hormonal changes;
- pregnancy;
- transferred stress;
- physical fatigue;
- non-compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene;
- immunodeficiency states;
- taking antibiotics.
Thrush should be treated only under the supervision of a gynecologist. Self-medication can worsen a woman's condition and disrupt the microflora of the vagina.
Abnormal discharge in women
It is almost impossible to independently establish a diagnosis by the color of the discharge. As a rule, many gynecological diseases are very similar in nature to each other. At the first changes in health, a woman should consult a doctor. Only a doctor on the basis of laboratory tests can establish an accurate diagnosis. Warning signs signaling a disease are the following signs:
- white discharge of a curdled consistency;
- a large amount exceeding the daily allowance;
- whites change color to green, brown or yellow;
- there is an unpleasant smell of fish or rot;
- redness of the labia;
- pain in the lower abdomen, which is accompanied by burning and itching;
- pain when urinating.
Pathology and color of mucus
Many gynecological diseases cause a change in the color of the whites. However, only a gynecologist can accurately establish the diagnosis after receiving the results of the analysis. For diagnosis, a smear is taken from the vagina and sent to a laboratory for testing. Often the color of the secret can indicate a specific female disease:
- chlamydia, provokes abundant foaming white discharge;
- bacterial vaginosis, gardnerellosis, is characterized by gray, abundant whites with the smell of fish;
- an excess of leukocytes gives whites a yellow-green tint;
- inflammation of the appendages forms a thick green or yellow discharge;
- trichomoniasis causes yellowish liquid leucorrhea;
- with candidiasis, the discharge is cheesy with an intense sour smell.
Daily discharge in women is the norm. Every girl needs to listen to personal intimate health. At the first unpleasant symptoms, it is important to consult a gynecologist. The doctor will conduct an examination, prescribe tests, based on the results obtained, establish an accurate diagnosis and select an individual treatment regimen.
What's in the article:
Discharge from the genitals of a woman is a natural defense mechanism of the body. Moisturizing the mucous membranes, the mucous secretion prevents the reproduction of pathogenic pathological microorganisms and bacteria, protects against the development of infections and is a self-purification mechanism of the vagina.
In order not to harm women's health with excessive cleanliness, you need to know what secretions are considered the norm in women.
What should be the natural discharge of a healthy woman
To understand what a woman's normal discharge should be, it is important to know what they are.
Normal vaginal discharge is a mixture of:
- dead cells of the epithelium of the mucous membranes of the cervical canal (cervical canal) and the woman's vagina,
- mucus from the cervical canal,
- microorganisms - bacteria, fungi, viruses that inhabit the genitals.
Normal microflora in women of reproductive age is characterized by the presence of lactic acid bacteria (lactobacilli, Doderlein bacillus), enterobacteria, fungi (Candida, gardnerella), a small number of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, streptococci.
Due to the presence of lactobacilli, vaginal discharge has a normal acidic environment (normal pH = 3.8 - 4.4) and a specific sour smell.
Types of vaginal discharge
The vaginal secret of a woman is not abundant mucus, which does not have a sharp unpleasant odor and unnatural color. A normal secret promotes lubrication and cleansing of the mucous membranes of the epithelium from irritation and drying out. After the completion of menstruation in a healthy woman, normal discharge has a colorless liquid consistency. Before the onset of ovulation in a woman (12-16 days with a normal 28-day menstrual cycle), they become plentiful, cloudy and thicker, viscous. This means that the egg is ready for fertilization. This time is most favorable for the successful conception of a child.
So, what should be the discharge of a healthy woman:
- transparent mucous membranes
- colorless creamy, characteristic of the post-ovulation period,
- pink with bloody streaks in the pre-ovulation period,
- colorless, odorless, jelly-like (appear before the onset of menstruation),
- brownish - brown can appear in the first 2 - 3 weeks when taking hormonal contraceptives,
- liquidish light white, not causing discomfort - typical for the period of pregnancy, with an increase in the duration of pregnancy, such discharge may increase,
- whitish-cloudy (appearing after sexual intercourse).
In different periods, cervical discharge in women can acquire a different consistency, smell, color. And their quantity and quality indicates deviations from the norm, the presence of any disorders, diseases, inflammations in the reproductive system.
If a woman's discharge has become abnormal - abundant with an unpleasant fetid odor and an unusual color (yellowish, green, brown - brown) and irritating the skin of the perineum - this is a sign of the disease. In this case, you should immediately contact a specialist - a gynecologist to take smears for bacterial culture of the vaginal microflora and exclude STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), venereal diseases.
Causes (norms) of a change in the color of normal discharge in women:
- pregnancy,
- menopause,
- postpartum, during breastfeeding,
- taking hormonal contraceptives and certain types of drugs,
- venereal diseases.
For each of the above reasons for deviations from the norm, various variations in the consistency of these discharges, their colors, the appearance or absence of an unpleasant odor and other accompanying signs indicating a specific reason for the change in the acceptable state are possible. The absence of any cervical discharge can also indicate the presence of pathologies.
What discharge is considered normal in women
Let us dwell in more detail on what kind of discharge is normal and in what period of a woman's life.
Transparent
A transparent vaginal secret is the most harmless and natural type of normal discharge. A similar secret can manifest itself in the premenstrual period, before the onset of ovulation in a woman, during the puberty of a teenage girl. It consists of dead epithelial cells, waste products of the vaginal microflora, lactic acid fungi and bacteria. A feature is the complete absence of smell or a very slight sour smell.
The following symptoms (deviations from the norm) are a cause for concern and an urgent visit to the doctor:
- the appearance of an unpleasant odor,
- burning and irritation in the vulva,
- cramps during urination and sexual intercourse,
- the appearance of flakes or bloody clots in the discharge.
Similar symptoms may indicate diseases such as: endometritis, vaginal dysbacteriosis (vaginosis), salpingo-oophoritis, neoplasms in the cervical cavity.
White (white)
In terms of consistency and smell, women should have normal white discharge. Beli can appear before the onset of menstruation, ovulation and in early pregnancy. If their consistency is homogeneous, odorless, and they do not bother a woman, then there is no reason for concern. Changes in quantity, composition (thick, frothy), appearance of white flakes, fetid odor (similar to rotten fish) may indicate diseases such as:
- fungal infections (candidiasis),
- vaginitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina),
- andexite,
- STDs (gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, ureaplasmosis).
Reasons for changing whites:
- Improper use of personal hygiene products, poor quality of raw materials used, the presence of chemical flavors and fragrances,
- Frequent douching without a doctor's prescription, which wash out the beneficial microflora of the cervical canal,
- Long-term use of certain types of hormonal contraceptives,
- Inactive way of life, lack of physical activity,
- Failure to observe daily intimate hygiene.
A sharp increase in the amount of whiteness in the middle of the cycle is due to the upcoming ovulation. If the increase in whiteness, the development of unusual symptoms occurs throughout the cycle and pregnancy is excluded, then this indicates the development of a pathology or disease.
yellow
The color of the cervical secret in yellow may be due to natural normal changes in the female body.
What yellow discharge occurs normally in women:
- no smell, discomfort, burning sensation,
- color slightly yellow, muted,
- the consistency is watery, uniform (without jelly-like clots).
In cases where yellow discharge is accompanied by a sharp increase in their number, an unpleasant odor (like rotten fish), a burning sensation, discomfort, pain during urination, you should immediately seek medical help and take a smear on the flora. Since such symptoms indicate diseases such as: inflammation of the ovaries and their appendages, andexitis, salpingitis, vaginitis, gonorrhea, chlamydia.
Greens
The green color of cervical discharge is a clear sign of a pathological genesis. As a rule, it is accompanied by severe itching, irritation. It is a sign of STDs and a serious inflammatory process in the vagina.
Causes of the green secret:
- Bacterial vaginosis, fungal candidiasis - the nature of the discharge is jelly-like or curdled,
- Trichomoniasis,
- Gonorrhea,
- Syphilis,
- Chlamydia, gardnerellosis.
The appearance of greenish discharge is always a sign of pathology (inflammatory process or STDs). The key to successful treatment is timely consultation and diagnosis by a specialist - a gynecologist.
Bloody (brown).
Such secretions are recognized as the most dangerous, threatening the life and health of a woman.
A woman should be alert:
- Increasing the amount of excreted secretion
- Itching, burning sensation in the vulva,
- Bad smell
- Pain when urinating
- intermenstrual discharge,
- Foamy discharge mixed with pus and bloody streaks.
The causes of the appearance of a bloody - brownish secret can be:
- Abortion,
- Infection in the genitals
- menopause, menopause,
- Taking inappropriate hormonal contraceptives, improper placement of an intrauterine device,
- Neoplasms in the vagina (cervix) - warts, polyps, ulcers,
- Intense rough intercourse, rape.
The secret of a bloody - brown color can be a symptom of diseases such as:
- Cervical erosion,
- adenomyosis,
- endometritis,
- Tumors and neoplasms (sarcoma, fibroma, myoma).
If a discharge of this color is found, it should be a reason for immediate medical attention. To exclude serious violations and make an accurate diagnosis, smears and tests are required.
Having considered the main types of what should be discharge in women, we can conclude that normal vaginal discharge is a natural process of cleansing a woman's reproductive system from pathological microflora. A change from the norm in the structure, color, consistency, intensity of secretion, the appearance and intensification of odor can appear during such normal physiological processes as: pregnancy, menopause, menopause, the postpartum state, with the onset of ovulation and menstruation, during the puberty of a girl. 
If the discharge has acquired an unpleasant odor, not a specific consistency, purulent particles - this is a reason for an urgent appeal to a medical facility. Making the correct diagnosis and prescribing effective treatment will help the delivery of appropriate smears for STDs and cytology, blood tests for certain types of diseases, and cultural studies.
Beli is a consequence of pathological secretion of the genital organs and a manifestation of the disease of various parts of the female reproductive system. It is important to establish the source of increased secretion.
Types of discharge in women
There are vestibular, vaginal, cervical, uterine and tubal leucorrhoea.
Vestibular leucorrhoea is usually mucous, most often caused by inflammation of the vulva or large glands. The secret of the sebaceous and sweat glands can accumulate in the folds of the vulva, which leads to irritation. Vestibular leucorrhea is relatively rare.
Vaginal discharge is more common. A small amount of liquid content (0.5 - 1 ml) contained in the vagina of healthy women is a transudate from the blood and lymphatic vessels of the subepithelial layer and the secret of the glands of the cervix, is absorbed by the vaginal mucosa, due to which healthy women do not notice vaginal discharge .
With a massive introduction of pathogenic microbes into the vagina, violations of hormonal and immune homeostasis, the biocenosis of the vagina is disturbed and vaginal discharge appears.
The cause of the appearance of vaginal discharge can also be extragenital diseases (pulmonary tuberculosis, acute infectious diseases, hyperthyroidism), the course of which is accompanied by a decrease in the hormonal function of the ovaries and changes in the vaginal mucosa. Increased "secretion" of the vagina is sometimes due to local infection, helminthic invasion, the presence of a foreign object in the vagina (often in children), prolapse of the genital organs, the formation of urogenital and enterogenital fistulas.
Vaginal discharge also appears as a result of mechanical (frequent intercourse, foreign objects), chemical (irrational use of chemical contraceptives), thermal (douching with hot solutions), and allergic factors.
Distinguished by nature:
- purulent (gonorrhea, nonspecific bacterial infection, ureoplasmosis),
- cheesy (infection with yeast fungi of the genus Candida, thrush),
- foamy (trichomoniasis, anaerobic microflora),
- mucous membranes (viral infection),
- mucopurulent or serous-purulent (chlamydia) vaginal discharge.
Allocations are:
- odorless (ureoplasmosis, chlamydia, viral infection),
- with a sour smell (yeast mushrooms)
- or the smell of rotten fish (anaerobic infection).
Hyperproduction of the secretion of the glands of the cervix is the cause of the appearance of cervical whites with endocervicitis of various etiologies, erosions, ruptures, polyps, cancer, cervical tuberculosis and other processes, accompanied by a violation of the secretion of the cervical glands and the introduction of pathogenic microflora. Unlike vaginal, cervical whites are thick and depend on the phase of the menstrual cycle.
Uterine leucorrhoea due to endometritis, submucosal fibroids, mucosal polyps, malignant tumors, the presence of foreign objects in the uterus or intrauterine contraceptives.
Tubal leucorrhoea is observed relatively rarely and is the result of periodic secretion that has accumulated in the fallopian tube. Among the causes of tubal leucorrhea are malignant neoplasms, inflammatory diseases of the fallopian tubes, accompanied by the formation of hydro- or pyosalpinx. For tubal whites, periodicity is characteristic, the appearance in the first phase of the menstrual cycle.
Vaginal discharge can be described in terms of:
Consistencies (thick, pasty, watery)
Colors (clear, cloudy, bloody (brown), white, yellow, green)
Odor (normal, odorless, unpleasant odor)
Some vaginal discharge is normal, especially during childbearing years. These secretions may be white or yellowish when exposed to air. These are normal variations.
The amount of mucus produced by the cervical glands changes during the menstrual cycle. It depends on the amount of estrogen circulating in the body. Vaginal discharge that differs in color, smell, consistency, or increases or decreases significantly in size may indicate hidden problems - infections.
Causes of increased vaginal discharge (lubrication)
It must be remembered that an increase in the volume of whites is considered physiological in the following cases:
- in connection with the menstrual cycle (on the eve and in the first days after menstruation) due to hyperemia, increased permeability of the vascular wall, increased blood supply and congestion in the pelvic area;
- during pregnancy due to the plethora of pelvic organs, congestive hyperemia and loosening of the tissues of the genital organs,
- during intercourse, as a result of a sharp change in hemodynamics in the small pelvis, especially at the time of orgasm, since blood flow to the genitals increases, cervical mucus is pushed out, and secretion of the glands of the vestibule of the vagina increases.
The following situations can increase the amount of normal vaginal discharge:
- emotional stress
- Ovulation (production and release of an egg from the ovary in the middle of the menstrual cycle
- Pregnancy
- sexual arousal
The appearance of unusual vaginal discharge may be due to:
- Atrophic vaginitis (seen in women who have gone through menopause and have low estrogen levels)
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) - The number of bacteria that normally live in the vagina decreases, resulting in a gray discharge and a fishy odor that worsens after intercourse. BV is not usually transmitted sexually.
- Cancer of the cervix or vagina (rare)
- Desquamative vaginitis and lichen planus
- Forgotten swab or foreign body
- Other infections and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Measures to prevent discharge
To help prevent and treat vaginal discharge:
- Keep your genitals clean and dry.
- Don't shower too often. While many women feel cleaner if they shower after their period or intercourse, it can worsen vaginal discharge because the water removes beneficial vaginal bacteria that exist to protect against infection. Vaginal douching can also lead to infection in the uterus and fallopian tubes and is never recommended.
- Eat live culture yogurt or take Lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when you are on antibiotics to avoid a yeast infection.
- Use condoms to avoid contracting or spreading STIs.
- Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, perfumes, or powders in the genital area.
- Avoid wearing very tight pants or shorts, which can cause irritation.
- Cotton underwear should be worn. Avoid wearing silk or nylon underwear as these materials are not very absorbent and restrict airflow. This can increase sweating in the genital area, which can cause irritation.
- Use pads, not tampons, during your period.
- Keep your blood sugar under good control if you have diabetes.
Please note that if vaginal discharge is due to a sexually transmitted disease, your sexual partner(s) should also be tested, even if they are asymptomatic. Failure to test a partner can lead to repeated infections and pelvic inflammatory disease or infertility.
When to see a doctor urgently
Call your doctor right away if you have vaginal discharge as well as:
- Fever or pain in the pelvis or abdomen.
- You have had a sexual partner with gonorrhea, chlamydia, or other STIs.
- If you have increased thirst and appetite, unexplained weight loss, increased frequency of urination, or tiredness, this could be a sign of diabetes.
Urgent consultation is also necessary if:
A child who has not yet reached puberty has vaginal discharge.
You think that the discharge may be the result of treatment - an allergy.
You are concerned that you may have an STI.
Your symptoms get worse or last longer than a week despite home care.
You have ulcers or other damage to your vagina or vulva (external genitalia).
You feel a burning sensation when urinating or other symptoms of urinary problems - you may have a urinary tract infection.
Medical history issues that are relevant for diagnosis:
When did the changes or abnormal vaginal discharge start?
Do you have the same amount and type of vaginal discharge for a month?
What are the discharges (color and texture)?
Is there a smell?
Do you have pain, itching or burning?
Does your sexual partner also notice discharge?
Do you have multiple sexual partners or sexual partners that you know recently?
What type of contraception do you use?
Do you use condoms?
Is there a remedy that reduces discharge?
Do you have other symptoms such as abdominal pain, vaginal itching, fever, vaginal bleeding, rash, genital warts, or lesions or changes in urination such as difficulty, pain, or blood?
What medications are you taking?
Do you have allergies?
Have you recently changed the detergents or soaps you normally use?
Do you often wear very tight clothing?
When was your last Pap smear (PAP)? Have you had abnormal smears before?
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:
Culture (smear culture) of the cervix
Analysis of vaginal discharge under a microscope
Pap smear (PAP)
Treatment of vaginal discharge
Treatment depends on the underlying disease. Suppositories or creams and antibiotics may be prescribed. Medicines taken by mouth may be needed to treat certain fungi or trichomoniasis infections. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.
Often, women who love cleanliness and diligently maintain body hygiene are overly zealous in trying to get rid of whiteness. When vaginal discharge is observed on underwear in women and girls, most often you should not worry about pathology - this is a natural process due to physiology. But when discomfort, an unpleasant odor or a suspicious color are added to the secret, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist - such phenomena indicate possible inflammatory or infectious processes in the genitourinary system. In order to take timely action, it is necessary to understand where the natural processes end and the development of pathology begins.
How are secretions formed and what are they
Before considering what normal whites should be, let's define what they are. As a rule, the secret that stands out is a natural phenomenon, it is produced by glands located on the mucous layer of the vestibule of the vagina, the cervix. A certain amount of effusion of the vaginal vessels, the discharge of the uterine cavity, is added to the composition of the mucus. One of the main tasks of the secret is to protect the uterine and vaginal walls from the introduction of pathogens. It is also necessary to prevent the drying of the vagina, cleaning the genital tract. Accordingly, eliminating those whites that are the norm, the woman also removes the protective layer, opening up access to infections.
Usually, from 1 to 5 ml of vaginal mucus is secreted during the day, while during the menstrual cycle its characteristics may change, including shade and consistency. The volume may also change, the natural reasons affecting this indicator are:
- ovulatory period;
- bearing a child;
- sexual arousal.
With insufficient production of vaginal fluid, pain during sex can occur, and frequent infection of the body. If we consider the parameters of the vaginal mucus in a woman, its composition includes cells and a variety of microorganisms:
- Mucus formed by the cervical canal, which is a protection against infectious pathologies in the cervix.
- Constantly renewing cells of the epithelium of the uterus, while the detached ones descend into the vaginal cavity, then coming out.
- Microflora, which includes from 5 to 12 varieties of microorganisms, including a small amount of coccal bacteria, viruses and fungi. Actively multiplying under the influence of negative factors, they are able to provoke the development of the inflammatory process.
It is believed that normally the ovaries, uterine cavity and fallopian tubes, along with the cervix, are completely sterile and microorganisms inhabit only the vagina.
In women and girls of reproductive age, the natural vaginal microflora for the most part includes lactic acid bacteria, due to which the normal excreted secret is an acidic environment with a pH value of 3.8 to 4.4. This explains the possible sour smell of mucus.
Characteristics of natural vaginal discharge
Every girl who has reached childbearing age should have a discharge that indicates the health of her reproductive system.
There are a number of signs, according to which a woman is able to independently determine how much the allocated secret meets the norm:
- It is estimated what color the secret is, the results are correlated with the period of the menstrual cycle - shades can be white, cream, yellow, or differ in transparency.
- Most of the natural vaginal discharge almost does not smell or there are sour shades.
- The consistency of mucus can vary from liquid to viscous.
- Despite the fact that the volume of the secret may vary, it should not exceed about a teaspoon.
- The amount of mucus increases significantly before menstruation, after sexual intercourse, during sexual arousal.
The nature of vaginal discharge is largely influenced by the woman's age, the hormonal background of her body, the presence or absence of a sexual life, and other factors. In girls, leucorrhoea should be absent until the puberty, given the peculiarities of the hormonal background and the structure of the genital organs characteristic of this age.
Allocations are evidence of pathology if they have a smell, color and appear in girls of 10-12 years of age. Usually such mucus indicates problems in the genitourinary or digestive system. Approximately 12 months before the start of the first menstrual cycle, teenage girls begin to experience the production of vaginal fluid, which is due to hormonal changes. Beli can be liquid or mucous, painted white or slightly yellow, when they leave the vagina there should be no unpleasant sensations - soreness, burning or itching, swelling and redness. After the stabilization of the monthly cycle, cyclic changes in the properties of secretions are observed. Given that most often girls and women have a monthly cycle of 28 days, consider the natural changes in vaginal discharge, taking it as a basis:
- In the initial phase of the cycle - and this is the period from the first to the twelfth day after the end of menstruation - the secreted mucus is often liquid, of a homogeneous consistency, sometimes with the inclusion of lumps, which consist of dead epithelium. Its color is transparent, but white or yellow shades are not considered a pathology. The smell is absent or gives slightly sour.
- On the thirteenth - fifteenth day, the ovulatory period begins, in which the volume of daily secretions increases to 4 ml, their consistency is similar to viscous mucus, the color ranges from transparent to white or light beige tones.
- In the second phase of the cycle, which begins on the fifteenth or sixteenth day, normal discharge in women decreases in volume, the consistency is similar to jelly or a thin cream. The color remains transparent, whitish or yellowish. Immediately before menstruation, the discharge becomes mucous and smearing, acquiring a brown tint.
Why do whites change
In addition to the monthly cycle and pathological conditions, there are many most often hormonal factors that affect the nature of the secret:
- When a girl begins to have sex or a change of partners occurs, a new microflora enters the vagina, which is essentially non-pathogenic, but completely alien. As a result, during a certain time period, the duration of which is individual for each individual organism, the reproductive system adapts to the changed composition of the microflora. At such moments, there may be an increase in the volume of the allocated secret, a change in its consistency and color. In this case, any discomfort, including itching or burning, should be completely absent.
- Sexual contact itself also provokes the production of specific whites - after an act without using a condom for several hours, vaginal discharge is like transparent clots, painted in whitish or yellowish hues. After six or eight hours, the mucus changes again - it becomes liquid and plentiful, painted white. When using a condom or when interrupting the act, the secret that is subsequently released has a structure similar to a cream, since it consists of a “waste” vaginal lubricant. Its color is whitish, the amount is quite scarce.
- Female oral contraceptives significantly change the hormonal background, inhibit ovulation and, during their use, help to reduce the volume of secretions. After stopping the use of the drug, the nature of the vaginal discharge is restored. Similarly, the nature of the leucorrhoea has a period of lactation. When the lactation period ends, the amount of mucus produced is quite low.
- Consider what discharge is considered normal for women who are carrying a child. Usually their number increases, since blood circulation in the genitals is accelerated and a certain amount of plasma penetrates into the lumen of the vagina. In the last trimester, the volume of the secret increases even more noticeably, which is a harbinger of labor activity.
Pregnant women need to pay increased attention to the nature of the substance released from the vagina, as it may indicate hidden problems. For example, liquid mucus in the last trimester often indicates a discharge of water.
The leucorrhoea that appears after labor is called lochia, they are uterine secretions, which include blood, mucus, rejected due to the non-viability of the tissue. Normally, lochia is released for three to six weeks, sometimes this period increases to almost one and a half months. At this stage, the trend towards a decrease in the volume of lochia and their clarification is important - the first seven days of discharge resemble ordinary heavy menstruation, which may contain clots. Gradually, the volume of lochia decreases, and the color changes towards yellow-white shades, which is facilitated by a large amount of mucus contained in them, and bloody inclusions may be present. Closer to about the fourth week, the discharge becomes smearing, at the end of the sixth week (this period can last up to the eighth week), the whites become the same as before the conception of the child.
The hormonal background in women changes significantly in the period before the onset of postmenopause. Consider what the discharge should be at this time - their volume is significantly reduced, for the most part coccal microorganisms are observed, which include streptococci and staphylococci.
It should be remembered: regardless of the period of the menstrual cycle and other circumstances, the release of vaginal secretions should not be accompanied by discomfort. Otherwise, an immediate gynecological examination is necessary.
Signs of pathological discharge
We examined the natural discharge in girls and women, now it is necessary to understand when leucorrhoea becomes pathological and the development of what diseases they accompany. Conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, present in small quantities in the vaginal environment, under the influence of certain reasons, begin to actively multiply and suppress lactobacilli, causing inflammation and processes.
These factors include:
- violated rules of personal hygiene;
- taking antimicrobial drugs;
- hormonal disruptions.
Focusing on the changed properties of leucorrhea, one can assume the development of pathology in the reproductive system, although it is impossible to establish an accurate diagnosis without conducting appropriate tests. Danger signals are:
- Discomfort, itching, burning.
- The secreted mucus becomes foamy, acquires yellow, green or white hues.
- Cheesy clots of white or yellow shades are released from the vagina, irritating the external genitalia.
- Abundant leucorrhoea with the smell of fish is observed, the volume of which increases with sexual arousal.
- Beli acquire a yellow tint, accompanied by problems with urination, pain in the lower abdomen.
- The discharge becomes thick, with inclusions of blood, their smell is strong and unpleasant.
- Between the planned periods, the appearance of bloody discharge is observed.
- When carrying a child, brown or red discharge appears.
- Thick purulent discharge with impurities of blood, with a pungent odor.
Beli is classified according to where exactly they are formed and can be tubal, occurring during inflammatory processes in the fallopian tubes, cervical, appearing with problems in the cervix, uterine, forming in the presence of endometritis.
The safest is the vaginal discharge, which, however, with a change in color or the presence of an unpleasant odor, may indicate the development of trichomoniasis, thrush, gardnerellosis and other pathologies.
Despite the fact that it is not possible to determine the exact cause of pathological changes in mucus without special laboratory tests, focusing on the smell, color and consistency, it can be assumed which disease is taking place. It should be borne in mind that the same signs may indicate different pathologies, therefore an examination by a gynecologist remains a necessity:
- The development of chlamydia may be indicated by foaming whites of a transparent color.
- A gray tint, combined with an unpleasant fishy odor, usually indicates bacterial vaginosis or bacterial vaginosis.
- White leucorrhoea may be a natural phenomenon or indicate thrush. It should be noted that candidiasis in a mild degree may not be accompanied by burning and itching, its usual signs, but the change in the volume of leucorrhoea in the direction of increase, their thick consistency and curdled appearance is of concern.
- Light yellow leucorrhea can be the norm, a day or two before menstruation is not considered a pathology and a more saturated shade. However, accompanied by a sharp unpleasant odor, with an increase in the allocated volume, irritation and redness of the genital organs, the presence of trichomoniasis can be suspected.
- Green shades are never normal, even in the absence of other symptoms, this is a danger signal. Usually, such secretions warn of the development of vaginal inflammatory processes, since the green color is caused by an increased number of leukocytes. Greenish leucorrhoea can be released with vaginitis, cervicitis, or inflammation of the ovaries.
- Red leucorrhoea becomes from an admixture of blood, immediately before menstruation this is a normal phenomenon, but you should be wary when such mucus appears between menstruation. Breakthrough bleeding indicates a possible oncology of the cervix, endometriosis, spontaneous abortion at the beginning of pregnancy, and others.
Pathological odor can be:
- acidic, which often indicates the reproduction of fungi;
- fish, when vaginosis can be suspected;
- putrid, often indicating the development of malignant neoplasms;
- glandular with secretions with the inclusion of blood.
What to do if vaginal discharge is suspicious? The most reasonable way out is to go to the clinic for an examination and take a smear for analysis, which will identify the causative agent of the problem. Self-medication is unacceptable, since taking pharmaceutical drugs without a doctor's prescription can aggravate the situation.
