Questions
Hello Doctor! I am 26 years old, and I have been experiencing excessive vaginal discharge for 9 years. I have this condition almost every day, and it always feels moist and uncomfortable. Usually, the discharge is clear and watery, but on some days, it becomes slightly clumpy and yellowish. I am unsure how to manage this. I visited a doctor about this issue, but since I haven’t had sexual intercourse, the doctor said they couldn’t perform a thorough examination. The doctor only did a discharge test and an external examination, which showed no signs of infection or yeast. I am very worried that I might have cervical erosion or, even more seriously, cervical cancer. If not detected and treated in time, it could be dangerous. I also have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and my menstrual cycle is irregular, occurring once every 2 to 3 months.
So, Doctor, what should I do about excessive vaginal discharge, feeling moist and uncomfortable, irregular menstrual cycles, and polycystic ovary syndrome? I would greatly appreciate your advice and guidance. Thank you very much!
Nguyễn Thị Trang (1994)
Response
Hello! I want to share my sympathy for the discomfort you’ve been enduring over the past years. Vaginal infections can lead to inflammation of the vaginal area, causing increased discharge, itching, and pain, which are uncomfortable and can affect your quality of life. If left untreated, it can cause serious and persistent complications, such as recurring infections or even infertility.
The common causes of these symptoms include an imbalance in the vaginal bacteria due to infections like bacterial infections, viruses, yeast infections, or even nutritional deficiencies. There are also non-infectious causes, such as allergic reactions to condoms or douching products.
Treatment for vaginal infections depends on the cause. Medications are typically prescribed either orally or locally (depending on the cause and severity of the infection). However, vaginal suppositories are often recommended to treat the infection directly.
As for your other concerns, the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and irregular menstrual cycles are conditions that can be managed with appropriate medical treatment. I would recommend discussing your situation further with a gynecologist to explore more options for treating both PCOS and the vaginal discharge.
Based on the symptoms you've described, such as excessive vaginal discharge and feeling moist and uncomfortable, it’s possible that you have vaginitis or vulvitis. You should visit a doctor to have a sample of the discharge collected for testing, such as a microscopy, culture, or PCR test. However, please make sure not to wash your genital area before the examination. Once the test results are available, the doctor will provide the appropriate treatment recommendations.
Since you haven’t had sexual intercourse, vaginal suppositories cannot be used. The doctor will prescribe oral medication, along with advice on hygiene, diet, and lifestyle changes. Without the ability to use vaginal medications, the treatment may not be as effective compared to cases where vaginal suppositories can be used. Given that you haven't had sexual intercourse, the likelihood of cervical erosion or cervical cancer is very rare.
You should have regular gynecological check-ups and get vaccinated against cervical cancer. Since you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), your menstrual cycles are irregular and infrequent. However, if your menstrual flow is not heavy, the duration is not long, and you do not experience other symptoms, it is still important to have routine gynecological exams. When you plan to have children in the future, it’s recommended that you have a preconception check-up at least three months before trying to conceive to receive the best advice and preventive care.
I hope this explanation helps you understand "excessive vaginal discharge, feeling moist and uncomfortable, irregular menstrual cycles, and polycystic ovary syndrome". If you need further consultation, you can visit a hospital in the Vinmec Healthcare System for an in-depth examination and consultation. Wishing you good health.
Best regards!
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Answered by Master, Doctor Vũ Thị Hồng Chính - Specialist Doctor
