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Vaginal Discharge is a healthy way where body expels certain discharge everyday in order to keep your vagina clean and free from infections. This vaginal discharge is produced by the action of glands in vagina and cervix. This fluid which is passed everyday varies during the different phases in monthly fertility cycle. Normally the discharge is white or transparent in color and its thickness differs depending upon certain factors. The discharge can be exceptionally remarkable during the following times -
- Before Ovulation i.e. prior to release of egg
- After sexual intercourse or when you are sexually excited
- When you are breastfeeding
- With the use of birth control methods
- Menstrual cycle
Not all discharge is normal
Though Vaginal Discharge is absolutely healthy for vaginal health but sometimes it changes its course in form of unusual flow, color or odor. If you experience discharge that you have most of the time then it may be a problem. You can detect abnormality in vaginal discharge with following symptoms-
Excessive discharge- Excessive discharge is normal before ovulation, when you are sexually aroused or if you breastfeed. But by your instincts you know how much is much. And moreover if your discharge becomes clumpy, cloudy accompanied with thick mucous for constantly in more than 2-3 cycles than there is a probability of you suffering from Vaginitis.
Change in color and odor- Normally the color of discharge is white or transparent. Yellow or green discharge may be due to some infections. Brown discharge is though normal sometimes for e.g. after your menses brown discharge means cleaning up of vagina. During Ovulation you may feel blood brown color in your discharge. With the help of the distinctive variations in color you can identify if you have a problem.
Pain or irritation- When Vaginal Discharge is accompanied by pain, burning sensation, soreness, itching or irritation than vaginal discharge is certainly not normal
Causes behind abnormal vaginal discharge
Though there are no certain conditions so that by avoiding those you can prevent the causative factors yet risk factors can be taken care off. The highest cause of vaginal discharge is infection in vagina. The vaginal infection can range from yeast infection, bacterial infection, trichomoniasis or fungal infection. STDs and HIV infection can also bring in unusual discharge. An abnormal discharge can sometime be also a result of UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). Condoms, diaphragms or birth control pills or other medical conditions and medications can also cause abnormality in Vaginal Discharge. Most often problem in discharge is due to infection caused by bacteria or yeast that often happens due to unhygienic conditions and when vagina remains sweat excessively for longer periods.
The Impact
- Inflammation on vagina
- Irritation and discomfort
- Rashes, Soreness, Itching or burning
- Change in appearance of discharge
- Pain accompanied by reddening and swelling of vagina
These are some noticeable physical impacts that affect you. However prolonged vaginal discharge can be reason for rift in relationship with your partner. The unusual discharges may create problem in intercourse and may become a source of repellant for your partner. The bad odor, cheesy flow and nasty color may put your man off and he can start losing interest in you.
Treatment - What to do?
Don’t ignore any unsual discharge. Your instincts will warn you if you are facing disturbed vaginal discharge. See your doctor immediately. Your doctor may conduct a test of you vaginal discharges that will him identify the nature and cause of vaginal discharge. Based on the characteristics of discharges you will be given oral pills or creams for topical use.
Apart regular check-ups you can maintain your lifestyle to prevent abnormality in vaginal discharge. Bath daily and wash your vagina from front to back after you have sex, urination or bowel movement. Wear cotton panties and avoid allergens and chemical based feminine products such as perfumed soap, deodorants, powders etc. Douching is certainly not recommended if your doctor hasn’t advice it. Sometime latex of condom may also be the reason so keep a check on that too.
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