Let's talk about vaginal discharge. Is this normal? Should I be worried?

As a girl or woman, vaginal discharge is nothing new to you. This is a very normal, natural process that occurs in our bodies. But sometimes when the color, smell, and amount of this discharge are different from what you expected, you feel a little scared and worried, right? "Is this an infection?" You wonder. So today, let's talk about this vaginal discharge to clear up all the questions you have in mind.

First, let's see, what is "normal" vaginal discharge?

Simply put, vaginal discharge is a wonderful thing your body does to keep your vagina healthy and clean. Your uterus, cervix , and vagina produce this discharge. It mainly consists of dead cells and good bacteria.

This passage has two main functions:

1. Cleansing: The vagina removes dead cells and unwanted substances from the body, just like our own natural cleansing system.

2. Protection: It keeps bad bacteria and germs out, protecting you from infections. It also helps keep the vagina lubricated.

Let's take a look at the characteristics of normal, healthy vaginal discharge.

What the color of your discharge says - what are the signs to be concerned about?

If your vaginal discharge changes color, it could be a sign of a health problem. Let's take a look at what it could be.

• White: This is usually a healthy sign. However, if this white discharge is thicker than usual, looks like cottage cheese , and is accompanied by vaginal itching , it could be a sign of a yeast infection.
• Yellow, Grey or Green: If it is one of these colors, it is more likely to be a sign of a bacterial infection or sexually transmitted infection (STI).
• Brown or Red: This is usually associated with your period . It can happen before or after your period. It can also happen in the early stages of pregnancy (implantation bleeding). However, if you are not on your period and you are experiencing brown/red discharge, it is important to see a doctor .

The main types of infections that change vaginal discharge

The main causes of vaginal discharge changes and bad odor are infections. Let's learn about a few of them.

Yeast Infection

This is a very common condition. It is caused by an uncontrolled growth of a type of fungus called ``Candida`` that is naturally present in our vagina. This causes a thick, white, milky discharge . It can also cause severe itching, burning, and swelling of the vagina . This can be treated with antifungal medication.

Trichomoniasis

This is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite. It can cause a green, yellow, or gray, frothy, or bubbly discharge. It is treated with antibiotics.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

This condition occurs when the balance between good and bad bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, causing an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria. This causes a white or gray, watery discharge , and a very unpleasant odor, especially fishy . This is also treated with antibiotics .

Gonorrhea and Chlamydia

These are two of the most common sexually transmitted infections ( STIs ). Some people may not have any symptoms. However, if they do, they may have a yellow or green, cloudy discharge. If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to serious conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease.

Other reasons for changes in discharge without infection

The change in discharge is not always due to an infection. There can be other reasons as well.

• Leaving something inside the vagina: For example, leaving something inside, such as a tampon, can cause the discharge to change and produce a bad odor.
• Allergies : Allergies to new soaps, shower gels, lubricants, or condoms.
• Atrophic vaginitis: A condition that occurs in women after menopause. The walls of the vagina become dry and thin due to a decrease in the hormone estrogen in the body.
• Pregnancy: It is normal for discharge to increase during pregnancy. This is a protective measure taken by the body to prevent infection from reaching the uterus.
• Ovulation: In the middle of the menstrual cycle, when an egg is released, the discharge becomes more liquid and slippery, making it easier for sperm to penetrate and fertilize the egg.

Most importantly: How to keep the vagina clean?

Do these simple things to keep your vagina healthy:

• When washing your body daily, use a mild soap and water and gently clean only the outer part of the vaginal area.
• Avoid using perfumed soaps, gels, wipes, etc. in the vaginal area.
• When cleaning after using the toilet, always wipe from front to back . This prevents bacteria from the rectum from entering the vagina.
• Avoid wearing tight underwear or sweaty clothes for long periods of time. Cotton underwear is best.

When should I see a doctor?

There is no need to worry about normal vaginal discharge. However, if you experience one or more of the following changes, you should definitely seek medical advice.

• If the color, smell, or consistency of your discharge is significantly different than usual.
• If the amount of discharge suddenly increases a lot.
• If there is itching, burning, swelling, or pain in or around the vagina.
• If the discharge is green, yellow, gray , or looks like curds .
• If it smells bad, like a fishy smell .
• If you have pelvic pain.

At times like this, it's best to see a doctor, find the exact cause, and get treatment without guessing.