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 entry 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 exposure to 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.

Tube whites are observed relatively rarely and is a consequence of the 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 sexual 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 trousers 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.

Vaginal discharge normally does not cause any inconvenience to a woman. However, many strive to get rid of any vaginal discharge completely, considering it to be a sign of disease or impurity, not realizing that the discharge is as normal as salivation in the mouth.

Allocations are a kind of signal for a woman. If they dramatically change their color and smell, this is a sign of a possible disease.

Vaginal discharge: description, meaning and characteristics

Vaginal discharge is absolutely normal and does not indicate any pathology or disease. The vagina itself is lined from the inside with a mucous layer with many glands that secrete mucus. If you know what discharge is considered normal, you can suspect an inflammatory process in time and consult a doctor.

Like the intestines, the vagina has its own microflora. It is inhabited by various bacteria, fungi, which maintain the condition of the mucosa, protect the walls of the vagina and uterus from the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms.Trying to get rid of secretions completely is not only pointless, but also dangerous. The absence of any mucus indicates that the mucosa does not have a protective layer, which means that the path for infection is open.

Discharge is the process of cleansing and protecting a woman's genitals.

Normally, in a woman, starting from the moment of the arrival of the first menstruation, mucus is regularly released from the vagina, supporting the microflora of the genital organs. The amount of mucus may increase during ovulation or before menstruation. Before the onset of menstruation, there should be no vaginal discharge. Regular secretion of mucus before puberty speaks of pathological processes in the body, inflammation, etc.

The composition of vaginal discharge is determined by cells and various microorganisms. Normally, they may contain coccal bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but with active reproduction, they will cause an inflammatory process.

Allotments include:

• Slime from . The cervix contains glands that secrete mucus that protects the uterus from infection.
• Epithelial cells from the uterus. Epithelial cells are constantly updated, and the old ones descend into the vaginal cavity and go outside.
• Various microorganisms. The flora of the vagina is represented by various lactic acid bacteria, cocci bacteria, Dederlein sticks, and also in small quantities. Conditionally pathogenic bacteria can also be contained in the secretions, however, at the onset of the inflammatory process, their number increases, which leads to various.

Color: the norm and possible diseases

Gynecologists say that normal discharge in a healthy woman is scanty, transparent and odorless. However, taking into account the physiological characteristics of the body, the color of the discharge can vary to yellow.

As soon as the inflammatory process begins in the vaginal cavity, the color of the discharge changes. This is a signal to see a doctor and pass. It is not recommended to self-diagnose based on the color of vaginal discharge alone. The same symptom can be a manifestation of different.

What the color says:

• Yellow. Yellow discharge from the vagina does not always indicate pathology. If they are light, not plentiful, then this is the norm. Even brighter yellow discharge is considered normal if it appears a day or two before menstruation. In this case, there is no reason for concern. Vaginal discharge of a pronounced yellow color is a sign of an inflammatory process, if they have a sharp unpleasant odor, increase sharply in quantity, which was not observed before, and are also accompanied by irritation and redness of the genital organs.
• Green. The green color of the discharge in any case does not apply to the norm. Even if other signs of inflammation have not yet appeared, this is already a signal that should not be ignored. As a rule, green discharge indicates the presence of an inflammatory process in the vagina. The secretions turn green when the amount increases in them. Green discharge sometimes appears with vaginitis, inflammation, cirvicitis (inflammation of the cervical canal).
• White. White or milky discharge is considered normal if they appear in small amounts, do not have a pronounced odor and are not accompanied by pain, cramps, itching. Thick and profuse white discharge may contain pus. As a rule, they are accompanied by an unpleasant odor.
• Red. The red discharge contains blood. They are perfectly normal during menstruation and the day before (scanty spotting). Breakthroughs and spotting between periods can be a symptom of cervical cancer, early miscarriage, etc.

Smell and consistency: types, norm and pathology

In the absence of diseases, vaginal discharge has no odor. They are watery, not abundant, without inclusions and seals, clots. The consistency of the discharge may depend on the characteristics of the organism. Even if the discharge has become somewhat thicker, this cannot be considered a pathology in the absence of other signs of inflammation.

A change in consistency is more often said when other symptoms appear, for example, when there is a change in color, the appearance of an odor, blood, etc. The appearance of bloody dense discharge with obvious clots and pain requires medical attention and consultation with a gynecologist.

In the case of odors, any unpleasant smell that was not there before is taken into account. It is advisable to visit a gynecologist if any smell appears, but sometimes the cause of this condition is insufficient personal hygiene.

You need to take into account the smell that appears on the condition that a woman is washed daily, changes linen and towels:

• Sour smell. Most often, the sour smell of secretions occurs with the active reproduction of fungi (with candidiasis). In the people, this disease is called thrush. Yeast fungi begin to multiply actively with a decrease in immunity, causing an unpleasant sour smell, foamy or thick curdled discharge, itching and irritation of the genital organs. This disease occurs in many women and is not completely cured. In the presence of provoking factors, thrush may appear again.
• The smell of fish. The pungent smell of fish in the discharge indicates more often vaginosis. The balance of beneficial and pathogenic bacteria in the vagina is disturbed, gray or greenish discharge appears with a strong unpleasant smell of stale fish.
• Metallic smell. A metallic smell (smell,) occurs with bloody discharge. If they appear in the middle of the cycle, accompanied by severe pain, this may be a sign of an inflammatory disease or cervical cancer.
• Putrid smell. The smell of rot, as well as abundant yellow discharge, can also be signs of cancerous tumors.

What to do if the discharge is bad

The first thing to do when suspicious discharge appears is to consult a doctor and go through. The gynecologist will listen to complaints, conduct an examination and take. A smear analysis will help identify the infection and clarify the pathogen.

It is not recommended to self-diagnose and begin treatment, attributing any discharge to thrush. Taking various antifungal drugs in the absence of candidiasis can only aggravate the situation.

If it is not possible to see a doctor at the moment, you can use universal anti-inflammatory topical agents that will help relieve symptoms before contacting a doctor. These drugs include Lactagel. This is a vaginal gel in the form of microtubes for single use. The drug helps to restore the normal microflora of the vagina, enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria. However, this measure cannot be considered universal for any disease.

To cure the cause of unpleasant discharge, it is necessary to make a diagnosis and undergo a comprehensive full-fledged treatment.

After the diagnosis is made, it is necessary to strictly follow the recommendations of the gynecologist. Many diseases can be recurrent, so interrupting the course of treatment at the first sign of improvement is not recommended.

No inflammatory and infectious diseases of the genital area should be treated at home with folk remedies. Only complete treatment and regular monitoring will help to avoid such serious complications as cancer, chronic inflammatory diseases, etc.

More information about vaginal discharge can be found in the video:

Most often, the treatment of such conditions begins with drug therapy. The doctor prescribes oral antibacterial or antifungal drugs, as well as topical suppositories, ointments, gels, douches to eliminate the infection. Often, for a full recovery, it is important to be treated together with a partner.

In some cases, physiotherapy, diagnostic and therapeutic curettage, as well as therapy to restore the normal microflora of the vagina are prescribed.

Any discharge from the vagina during the period causes concern in a woman for fear of harming the child and infecting. Most often frightening are spotting during pregnancy.

They may not be plentiful or they may be quite plentiful. In any case, bleeding during pregnancy is a bad sign. You need to see a doctor immediately. Sometimes spotting does not bring serious, but it is better to play it safe.In addition to bloody discharge, a pregnant woman may have discharge with an unpleasant odor and a changed color, which indicates an inflammatory process and also requires immediate treatment.

Types of selections:

• White. During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur, which leads to an increase in the amount of discharge. It is perfectly normal if the discharge is clear, odorless and does not cause irritation, burning or redness. It is worth paying attention to the so-called mucous plug. It is a clot of mucus streaked with blood. It is formed in the area of ​​the cervical canal and protects the uterus and the child from infection. The cork should come out before childbirth. If she came out earlier, this indicates a premature birth, the woman needs to be hospitalized.
• Yellow discharge. If the discharge has a yellowish tint, this is not a pathology. Dark or rich yellow discharge with an unpleasant odor is a sign of an inflammatory process.
• Brown. Brown discharge indicates the presence of clotted blood in the discharge. Like scarlet blood, such discharge may not be normal during pregnancy. They can indicate both an ectopic pregnancy and a possible threat of miscarriage. This may cause pain in the lower abdomen. If the gestational age is long enough, such discharge is attributed to the beginning of the birth process. They can appear simultaneously with contractions.

Any questions about discharge during pregnancy should be discussed with your doctor. The presence of an inflammatory process in the vagina is dangerous for.

Vaginal discharge in women is one of the most common reasons for visiting a gynecologist. Of course, it is normal for women to have discharge every day, but not all of them are normal, some are symptoms of various diseases, including sexually transmitted ones. So, which discharges in women require treatment, and which ones are normal and natural.

Physiological secretions

Any gynecologist will confirm that normal discharge in women is not abundant, the color is transparent, maybe with an admixture of white, on underwear with a yellow tint. Moreover, the discharge from the vagina does not bring any discomfort, such as itching, and also does not have a sharp, unpleasant odor.

The secretion of whiter in women increases significantly at the time of sexual arousal, as well as during and after sexual intercourse. In addition, abundant leucorrhoea is observed in women of reproductive age in the middle of the menstrual cycle. It is related to ovulation. Complaints about abundant mucous discharge in women occur in the first weeks of pregnancy. This does not at all mean that something threatens the embryo; soon the amount of discharge will normalize. Such changes are associated with changes in hormonal levels.

Changes in the microflora of the vagina

In the vagina of every woman live thousands of microorganisms, which make up the "microflora". Among them there are conditionally pathogenic microorganisms that begin to multiply under certain conditions, thereby leading to the disease. In this case, we are talking about the 2 most common diseases that are not sexually transmitted and non-venereal - candidiasis and gardnerellosis.

Discharge in women is white, plentiful, similar to cottage cheese with a sour smell and accompanied by severe itching, most often caused by an opportunistic pathogen - fungi of the genus Candida. In addition to discharge, a woman notices swelling of the vulva, redness of the labia. Treatment is carried out only in the presence of these symptoms and a poor smear result. There are a number of drugs quite effective for combating thrush, this is what people call candidiasis. But it must be borne in mind that white discharge in women can appear periodically when favorable conditions arise for the reproduction of the pathogen that causes candidiasis. But more on that below.

Another disease, similar in symptoms, but only with it, grayish discharge appears in women with the smell of rotten fish. The disease is called gardnerellosis. The causative agent is gardnerella. In its frequency, it is approximately equal to candidiasis, and it is also diagnosed with the help of a smear on the flora. Less often, there are discharges in green women, frightening with their unusualness.

When diagnosing both candidiasis and gardnerellosis, it is recommended to undergo a complete examination for all kinds of sexually transmitted diseases, and especially for latent infections. Since it is with them that the microflora of the vagina most often pathologically changes. Treatment of gardnerellosis at the initial stage aims to eliminate the pathogenic flora, the second stage is to create a normal environment in the vagina.

Both of the above diseases have risk factors, the conditions under which they most often develop.

1. Taking antibiotics.

2. Rare sex without the use of barrier contraception, as well as frequent change of sexual partners.

3. Use of hormonal contraception.

4. Douching, especially with chlorine-containing solutions (usually used as a prevention of infection with sexually transmitted diseases, it should be noted that this prevention is rather weak).

5. Use of spermicides containing 9-nonoxynol as contraception.

6. Use of lubricants containing 9-nonoxynol.

It should be noted that men can develop candidiasis and gardnerellosis. And in this case, abundant, thick, transparent discharge in women, grayish or white cheesy appear in their partners, usually at the same time. But if the partner has all the signs of the disease, but the man does not, he does not need to be treated.

Sexually transmitted diseases

Most infections are characterized precisely by this or that nature of the discharge from the vagina. We will consider 2 of them, quite common.

1. Trichomoniasis. This disease, often leading to female infertility, is characterized by yellow discharge in women, pain during urination and sexual intercourse, inflammation of the external genitalia. In men, the symptoms are the same, and they are quite similar to those of prostatitis. Treatment when a pathogen (Trichomonas vaginalis) is detected in a smear. Moreover, the treatment does not consist in the use of drugs locally, they are absolutely not effective, but in the internal administration of antitrichomonas drugs.

2. Gonorrhea. One of the most ancient diseases. Its causative agent is gonococcus. Vivid symptoms are present in men, while women usually only have yellow or white discharge, which many women do not take seriously, considering this a manifestation of candidiasis. Another symptom is painful urination mistaken for cystitis. But the disease is very dangerous, not only the genitourinary system is affected, but also the joints, skin, liver, heart and other internal organs. Gonorrhea is also diagnosed by laboratory methods.

Menstrual disorders and gynecological diseases

1. Erosion of the cervix. This fairly common pathology can cause weak intermenstrual bleeding. They do not arise on their own, but due to some mechanical effect on the cervix, for example, as a result of sexual intercourse.

2. Hormonal contraception. Contraceptive pills, which are quite popular now, have many side effects in the first cycles of their use. A common side effect is brown discharge in women outside of menstruation. This "daub" does not pose a health hazard. The doctor in the presence of this side effect may recommend other birth control pills, change the type of contraception, or simply wait 2-4 months until the side effects disappear on their own, since they are temporary in this situation.

3. Age-related disorders of the menstrual cycle. Delayed periods, too long intervals between them, or vice versa too short, intermenstrual discharge in brown women often occurs during the first 1-2 years after the very first menstruation. And vice versa, with the extinction of the menstrual function, that is, with the onset of menopause. However, even if you fit into one of these two categories, you should not rely on the fact that everything will work itself out. It is quite possible that the reason is not at all in age and natural hormonal changes in the body, but in a disease, and not necessarily a gynecological one. In case of serious violations of the menstrual cycle, it is necessary to consult not only a gynecologist, but also an endocrinologist.

Bloody, brown discharge during pregnancy

They are one of the most dangerous symptoms that should not be ignored at all stages of pregnancy. Probable causes are described below.

1. Hormonal changes. Surely, you have heard from experienced women that menstruation can occur during pregnancy. This phenomenon is very rare, but it does occur in some expectant mothers. Moreover, a daub appears only in certain weeks, with the same regularity as menstruation went. It is because of this rare feature of the female body in areas where there was poor medical care that pregnancy was sometimes determined on the basis of such symptoms as a visual increase in the uterus (abdomen), baby movements and a vertical stripe (pigmentation) on the abdomen, appearing only in the middle of the term. .

2. Ectopic pregnancy. In the early stages, you need to think about this diagnosis if brown or bloody discharge appears. If the test is positive but you have discharge, see your doctor. On examination in the early stages, the doctor is unlikely to be able to determine where the fetal egg develops - in the uterus or not. But on ultrasound everything becomes clear. If hCG is above 1000 mU / ml, the gestational age is more than 4 weeks (from the first day of the last menstrual cycle), but there is no fetal egg in the uterus - there is reason to suspect an ectopic pregnancy. Another of its distinguishing features is the slow growth of hCG.

3. Frozen pregnancy. It is less dangerous than ectopic, but still requires an early diagnosis. One of the main signs of frozen is again spotting, which intensifies when a miscarriage begins. When frozen on ultrasound, the heartbeat of the fetus is not detected, hCG stops its growth, its concentration in the blood and urine decreases.

4. Threatened or incipient miscarriage. Scanty brown discharge may be a sign of a hematoma formed as a result of detachment. This condition does not require treatment. If you notice scarlet blood on your underwear and the discharge is quite plentiful, urgent hospitalization is needed. This is the only way to save the pregnancy. A miscarriage cannot be avoided if the cervix has already opened, and the detachment of the chorion or placenta is large.

That's what the different nature of vaginal discharge means. And these are by no means all of their possible causes. Do not forget to regularly (at least once a year) visit a gynecologist.

Normal discharge in women

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. Normal 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.

The genitals of a woman secrete a secret, its quantity and quality shows whether there are violations in the body and how well the reproductive system functions. If the discharge in women exceeds the norm or has an unusual color, smell or texture, you need to urgently contact a gynecologist - you have a problem!

PRIMARY RECEPTION OF A GYNECOLOGIST - 1000 rubles, CONSULTATION ON THE RESULTS OF ULTRASOUND or ANALYSIS - 500 rubles.

Unusual discharge is the main reason women visit a gynecologist. And this is understandable - such a symptom is difficult not to notice, especially if the discharge is accompanied by an unpleasant odor and an unusual color.

What discharge between periods is considered normal

Female discharge normally consists of cervical mucus, dead cells of the mucous membrane, fluid (secretion) secreted by the glands of the vagina, lactic acid. In the secretions of a healthy woman, lactic acid bacteria (Doderlein sticks), a small amount of cocci and other microorganisms that are not harmful are found. Normally, vaginal discharge is slightly acidic. Such an environment does not allow pathogenic microbes to multiply.

The main function of normal female secretions is to protect the uterus and vagina from infections and to moisturize the inner surface of the organ. In a healthy girl, the first discharge begins shortly before the onset of menstruation. The amount and characteristics of vaginal discharge are affected by the hormonal background of the body, sexual activity, the stage of the menstrual cycle and the state of the internal genital organs - the uterus, ovaries, appendages.

On the Internet, on forums, you can often find information that women should not have noticeable discharge between periods. Since they are excreted and absorbed in equal volume. In practice, this is certainly not the case - most healthy women note the discharge.

What does normal discharge look like in women

The secretions of a healthy woman are like mucus without a strong odor and not too plentiful. They lubricate and cleanse the mucosa, protecting it from drying out and irritation.

Immediately after the end of menstruation, the discharge is scarce, then their number increases. Before the onset of ovulation (up to 12-16 days), they are transparent, watery, then become more cloudy and viscous. The amount of discharge for each woman is individual. The discharge increases with stress, sexual arousal and pregnancy. Bakes up to 2 ml of whiter per day. An increase in the volume of secretions during the period of ovulation means that the egg is ready for fertilization. This occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle and helps determine the maximum chance of conceiving a child.

In different situations, normal vaginal discharge from a woman can have a different structure, consistency and color. Here's what they are:

• Mucous discharge of a transparent color.
• Creamy discharge in a small amount (in the second half of the cycle, after the period of ovulation).
• Abundant jelly-like discharge without color and odor (before the onset of menstruation).
• Whitish or yellow discharge with small clots (after sex without a condom).
• Profuse white discharge (morning after unprotected sex).
• Bloody discharge (during menstruation).
• Smearing discharge of a dark color (while taking contraceptives.
• Liquid discharge of a light shade that does not cause discomfort (during pregnancy).

With illness, the composition and volume of secretions change. Discharge in women become profuse, fetid with a yellow, green and reddish tint. Beli irritate the mucous membranes and skin of the perineum. If such symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor and take a smear for STDs and vaginal flora.

About Consultation of a gynecologist

Our clinic accepts gynecologists of the highest and first certification category. All doctors have certificates confirming their qualifications issued in St. Petersburg and Moscow.

The cost of the initial appointment with a gynecologist is 1000 rubles, a consultation based on the results of tests or ultrasound is 500 rubles. You can make an appointment with a gynecologist without an insurance policy, registration in St. Petersburg and Russian citizenship. We have gynecologists and ultrasound specialists who speak English.

You can apply to us without having an insurance policy, registration in St. Petersburg and Russian citizenship.

ATTENTION! IN THE CLINIC IS A DOCTOR SPEAKING IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE!

Pathological leucorrhea and age

In childhood and adolescence, profuse leucorrhoea is caused by helminthic invasions, allergies, hormonal disruptions, and abnormal development of the genital organs. With the irrational use of antibiotics in girls, thrush occurs. In 30% of cases, purulent discharge is caused by an infection that has entered the genital tract with blood or lymph flow. In children, there are cases of household infection with STDs.

In childbearing age, among the causes of leucorrhoea, infections (60-70%) caused by cocci, protozoa and Candida fungi are in the lead. It is not uncommon for tumors that cause mild discharge, which women mistake for thrush or allergies. Allocations increase during pregnancy and after childbirth. This is a variant of the norm that does not require treatment.

Abundant vaginal secretion during menopause and menopause is often caused by oncopathology or precancer. Therefore, when it occurs, you need to be examined by a gynecologist. At this age, leucorrhea is often caused by prolapse (omission) of organs and atrophy of the mucosa.

Types of discharge with signs of pathology

There are the following types of secretions:

• Vaginal . They are present in any healthy woman. If their number and volume increase, then it is likely that there are diseases associated with the genitourinary system in the body, for example, colpitis. To accurately determine the cause, you need to take a smear from the vagina for research.
• Vestibular. These secretions are most often white in color and are a symptom of inflammation of the vulva and glands.
• Pipe . This is the rarest group of secretions associated with inflammation of the fallopian tubes.
• Cervical . As the name implies, they are formed due to erosion, polyps and other inflammatory processes in the cervix.
• Royal . They are caused by fibroids, malignant tumors, inflammation of the uterine mucosa.

It is very important to determine the source of discharge, and only a gynecologist can do this.

Photo: discharge in women - normal and pathological

Table: types of discharge in women with diseases of the genital area

Features of female discharge with dangerous signs

Distinguish discharge by consistency, abundance and color. These signs allow you to determine the presence in the body of a certain gynecological disease.

• Natural discharge between periods has the consistency of colorless, odorless mucus. If they turn yellow, green or curdled and are accompanied by purulent discharge, then this is already an alarm signal indicating an infection.
• Allocations of dark, pinkish hues or with impurities of blood indicate a hormonal failure in the body or erosion of the cervix.
• The most life-threatening women are considered brown or pink spotting, especially if they appear during pregnancy. Seek medical attention immediately, especially if the discharge is accompanied by the following symptoms: headache and abdominal pain, palpitations, weakness and low blood pressure, thready pulse, profuse sweating, pale skin.

Many diseases, incl. and STDs are asymptomatic. There are discharges with them, but they are not pathological in nature and look like normal ones. If the disease passes in a latent form, then it is almost impossible to diagnose it independently due to the absence of characteristic manifestations. Pathology can be detected at a routine examination. To do this, a woman should be examined by a gynecologist at least 2 times a year and take a smear, which will determine the presence of hidden diseases at the initial stage.

Detailed signs of pathological discharge

They are called pathological if they are a symptom of inflammation, tumors of the genital organs and STIs (genital infections). In a healthy woman, discharge cannot cause burning, discomfort, itching, irritation, and other unpleasant sensations. A smear on the microflora will show the number of leukocytes within the normal range, not increased.

Symptoms of pathological discharge requiring urgent diagnosis and treatment:

• Brown, pink, or bloody discharge at any time outside of menses.
• The usual amount of menstrual blood changes: it becomes less, more. Periods pass with pain or disappear altogether.
• Abundant discharge of white, green, yellow, dark shades, uncharacteristic of the menstrual cycle.
• Discharge, accompanied by itching, pain in the abdomen and an unpleasant odor.

If streaks of blood and clots appear in the vaginal discharge, and the whites become like meat slops, you need to urgently contact a gynecologist, take smears, blood and urine tests, and do an ultrasound. These are formidable symptoms indicating a high probability of a cancerous tumor.

It is important to understand that the cause of the discharge may not necessarily be a disease of the reproductive system. They can also be caused by other types of pathologies that have no connection with the genitals. But in any case, the examination should begin with a gynecologist.

Table: discharge from women, indicating diseases

At the slightest suspicion of pathological discharge, you should immediately consult a gynecologist to determine their cause. By the appearance of the discharge, you can determine which symptom of a gynecological disease they are.

It should be remembered that blood after intercourse in combination with abdominal pain is not the norm and requires an immediate visit to the gynecologist. A visit to the doctor is also necessary a week after the abortion for an ultrasound scan, regardless of the presence of discharge.