Specialist Doctor II,
Nguyen Thi Minh Tuyet
This article is professionally advised by Specialist Doctor II Nguyen Thi Minh Tuyet – Head of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.
Vaginal discharge (also known as leucorrhea) is a common gynecological condition in women, causing discomfort and inconvenience in daily activities. So, what are the causes of vaginal discharge? What should you do when experiencing vaginal discharge? How should vaginal discharge be properly treated?
1. What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge is the condition in which the body secretes an abnormal-smelling discharge (leucorrhea) from the vagina. The abnormal consistency and color of the discharge cause itching or pain in women suffering from vaginal discharge. When you experience signs of vaginal discharge, it means your body is not healthy, possibly due to an infection, or it may be caused by a sexually transmitted disease, etc. Although vaginal discharge is not too serious, patients need timely and thorough treatment.
The condition of vaginal discharge can present different symptoms in each woman. Women should regularly monitor and compare with their usual vaginal discharge to detect any abnormalities early. Below are some common signs of vaginal discharge:
Vaginal discharge has an unusual color or consistency, resembling a thick or clumpy texture.
- Vaginal discharge with an unusual color may be a sign of vaginal discharge disease.
- Vaginal discharge with a fishy or foul odor.
- An abnormal amount of discharge.
- When suffering from vaginal discharge, patients may experience itching outside the vagina, pain in the abdominal or pelvic area.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding.
2. Causes of vaginal discharge
There are many causes of vaginal discharge, but the most common are bacterial or yeast infections. These microorganisms cause an imbalance in the natural flora of the vagina, leading to abnormal vaginal discharge. The main causes of vaginal discharge include:
- Candida yeast infection.
- Vaginal bacterial infections.
- Sexually transmitted parasitic infections.
- Gonorrhea or chlamydia infections.
- Genital herpes.
Vaginal discharge can also occur in the following cases:
- Cervical or vaginal cancer.
- Pregnancy.
- Fistula between the rectum and vagina.
- Vaginal atrophy (a condition commonly seen in women during menopause).
3. Treatment of vaginal discharge
If the cause of vaginal discharge is a yeast infection, the doctor will prescribe antifungal medications. These medications are typically available in the form of gel or cream, which are applied directly to the vagina. If the cause is a bacterial infection, the doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics or topical creams to treat the condition.
In some cases, vaginal discharge may not be due to an underlying disease but simply an allergic reaction. In this case, women should identify and avoid the allergen, as well as apply prescribed medications to relieve itching and discomfort.
4. What should be done when experiencing vaginal discharge?
What to do when experiencing vaginal discharge is the most common question among women. According to experts, when abnormal vaginal discharge is noticed, with unpleasant odors or causing discomfort and inconvenience in daily activities, patients should visit reputable medical facilities for timely diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, during the treatment period, patients should reconsider their lifestyle habits and hygiene practices, and make adjustments such as:
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling, itching, and discomfort in the vaginal area.
- Limit or avoid sexual activity during treatment, or use condoms.
- Clean the vaginal area gently with warm water and a mild hygiene solution.
- After using the restroom, always wipe from front to back.
- Avoid wearing tight underwear; opt for 100% cotton underwear.
Vaginal discharge is one of the most common gynecological conditions among women. Early detection and treatment of the condition can help prevent serious complications such as infertility and cervical cancer. Especially for women over 40, those who are sexually active, or those with symptoms suggesting gynecological cancer (such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or a family history of gynecological cancers), it is important to undergo gynecological cancer screening.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
