Smirnova Olga (gynecologist, GSMU, 2010)

The vaginal secret helps a woman assess the state of the reproductive system. White discharge, odorless and itchy, is considered normal in most cases. But under certain conditions, whitish mucus can be a sign of pathology, even in the absence of discomfort.

When secretion is normal

The vagina of a healthy woman secretes a special fluid with the following characteristics (see photo):

• has a volume of up to 5 ml per day;
• transparent, whitish or milky;
• has a uniform consistency;
• mucous, thick or viscous;
• has small seals (no more than 4 mm);
• has a slightly sour smell or no aroma at all;
• not complemented by burning, itching, swelling and redness.

After drying, such a secretion leaves a stain on linen or panty liners of a beige or yellowish tint.

If a white, odorless discharge matches this description, then there is no cause for concern. But secretion can change during a certain period of the cycle and for other reasons that are not related to pathology.

For abundant discharge without a pungent odor and white itching, the following factors of occurrence are characteristic:

1. Excitation (presence of transparent and).
2. Reaction to male sperm.
3. Ovulation.
4. fertilization process.
5. Stabilization of the cycle after menarche.
6. The use of drugs with hormones.

meager discharge

White discharge without irritation of the genital organs in a small amount can be caused by:

• the influence of hormones during the first half of the menstrual cycle (before the ovulatory phase);
• the period of maturation of the corpus luteum;
• bad habits;
• the beginning of menopause;
• systematic douching;
• unsuitable means of intimate hygiene.

The lack of secretion or its absence negatively affects the functioning of the entire reproductive system. The body cannot fully fight off harmful bacteria, as well as produce the necessary lubricant.

Dense

Provoke the appearance of non-dangerous, thick, odorless white discharge can:

• hormones that prevail in the second half of the cycle;
• lubrication during sex;
• cleansing the vagina from sperm;
• the first 12 weeks of gestation;
• severe stress;
• a large amount of cervical fluid in secret;
• wrong underwear;
• the output of the remnants of candles and creams.

It can be mushy, or creamy traces on a panty liner. Without smell and itching, such secretion does not require treatment. But with a long-term designation, it is better to consult a doctor.

Watery discharge

The initial form of thrush or chronic candidiasis is distinguished by white, thick discharge without a sour smell and itching. Secretion can have not only a curdled consistency. There are dense vaginal discharge, resembling cream or sour cream.

At the very beginning, the ingress of a pathogenic fungus differs only in whitish or light secretion. Additional symptoms manifest themselves with a decrease in immunity or while taking antibiotics. These drugs kill not only harmful, but also beneficial lactobacilli, which block the reproduction of pathogenic organisms in the vagina.

With chronic thrush, the symptoms are dulled. It occurs again already in inflammatory processes and other diseases that were caused by candidiasis.

Thick, odorless discharge can be caused by the following reasons:

1. Viral infection of the vagina.
2. Infection in the microflora.
3. Infection of the body with pathogenic bacteria.
4. The presence of harmful microbes in the pelvic organs.

It is in the woman's interest to go to the doctor and get a smear. This is the only way to accurately determine whether an infectious, bacterial or fungal factor caused an unusual secretion.

Mucous consistency of vaginal fluid

The appearance of abundant, odorless white mucus often indicates infectious pathologies. The situation persists for two to three weeks, and only then does the unpleasant aroma of whiter and discomfort appear.

You can call selection:

• gonorrhea;
• chlamydia;
• trichomoniasis;
• other STDs.

Immediately after infection, a woman notices the appearance of white, transparent discharge without an unpleasant odor. But the lack of timely therapy exacerbates the disease. There is a fetid odor, pus, a foamy consistency of whiter, the transparency of the veins changes, provoking a green, bright yellow tint of vaginal mucus.

Cloudy leucorrhea

Most often, due to inflammatory processes, vaginal fluid with a cloudy white tint begins to stand out.

It could be inflammation

• ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingoophoritis);
• cervix (cervicitis);
• vaginal glands (bartholinitis);
• labia (vulvitis);
• cervical mucosa (endometritis).

Unpleasant odor at an early stage of these diseases is practically absent. The following symptoms are well expressed:

• failure of the female cycle;
• delay of menstruation;
• painful urination;
• itching and burning;
• discomfort in the lower abdomen;
• pain during sex;
• increase in body temperature.

The inflammatory process can occur for the following reasons:

1. When there is no permanent sexual partner.
2. Due to unprotected intercourse.
3. Due to violation of the rules of intimate hygiene.
4. As a result of various intrauterine interventions.
5. In case of infection, fungus.
6. After hypothermia.

Regardless of the pathogen, the cloudy shade of whiter is caused by an increased number of leukocytes. They are also found in normal secretions, but their number should not exceed 10 (for the vagina) and 30 (for the cervix).

Permanent leucorrhea

Systematic discharge, similar in color to milk, cannot be considered normal. In this case, the woman definitely needs medical attention. Among the reasons for this symptom, it is worth highlighting:

• improper hygiene of the genitals;
• violation of metabolic processes;
• the presence of an inflammatory process;
• the presence of a foreign object in the vagina;
• improperly selected hormone therapy;
• the presence of benign tumors;
• the presence of cancerous neoplasms;
• manifestation of an allergic reaction.

Discharge treatment

Most white, odorless discharge in women does not need treatment. But for any complaints or ailments, it is better to visit a doctor. The nature of the vaginal mucus and the time of its occurrence can only give a signal of a violation, but do not help to establish the exact cause of the occurrence.

For a start, an examination on a gynecological chair is enough. After that, the doctor will prescribe a smear. The course of further examination will depend on the results of the assessment of biological material. You may need:

• blood and urine analysis;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
• visiting a urologist;
• examination by an endocrinologist;
• examination by other specialists.

A visit to additional doctors is explained by the fact that the following can provoke the appearance of a whitish secretion: diabetes mellitus; improper functioning of the thyroid gland; urological problems.

The production of whites is essential for the reproductive system. They provide protection and normal functioning of the genitals. Any change in the vaginal fluid should alert the woman. In most cases, these are minor failures, but any violation is easier to treat if the diagnosis is made on time.

Beli is a specific discharge from the vagina that performs the function of self-cleaning of the genital tract. They occur in sexually mature women and are associated with their ability to reproduce.

Normally, in a healthy woman, the amount of white discharge per day does not exceed 1 ml. If there are more of them, then this may be due to such physiological conditions:

1. Puberty in girls.
2. Ovulation.
3. Menstrual cycle. Their number increases before menstruation and decreases after they stop.
4. Pregnancy and postpartum period.

But you should be wary of the presence of opaque discharge that has a pungent odor and is accompanied by itching and burning, as well as pain in the genital area. Such symptoms indicate the presence of a particular disease.

Abnormal white discharge in women is classified according to the principle of localization of the lesion. There are several types of them:

All these whites are classified as pathological types, since their occurrence is associated with certain diseases.

They differ from normal secretions in color, the presence of a specific smell, as well as the presence of pain and other unpleasant sensations.

The main reasons for the appearance

Beli in women appear for various reasons. If they are associated with physiological processes (puberty, pregnancy, ovulation, menstrual cycle), then you should not worry. The causes of the appearance of pathological white discharge in women are:

Also, the cause of leucorrhoea in women may be non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene.

Proper daily care of the organs of the reproductive system is a must for every woman.

Isolation of leucorrhoea in women without smell - a norm or a pathology?

Vaginal discharge consists of uterine mucus, microorganisms that make up its normal microflora, as well as dying epithelial cells.

Such secretions in the body of a healthy woman occur in small quantities.

Sometimes there is a slight sour smell due to the presence of lactobacilli, but it may not be present at all.

Whites perform a protective function in the body of a woman - they do not allow infection to enter the genitals. In some cases, their number may increase or decrease, and the consistency will thicken without changing the smell. This is often due to a number of reasons:

1. Hormonal surges due to puberty, ovulation, pregnancy, lactation.
2. menstrual period.
3. Beginning of sexual activity or change of sexual partner. The secretions become abundant and thick, which indicates the processes of adaptation to alien microflora.
4. After sexual intercourse without the use of a condom, abundant discharge is observed, in which clots are sometimes present. After a couple of hours, whites become more liquid.
5. Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives. In this case, the amount of discharge decreases (as with lactation), as the reproductive activity of women decreases.

But under some circumstances, odorless whites may indicate the presence of pathology. In the absence of secretions or their appearance in the form of curd clots, with a change in color (from off-white to dark brown), pain in the groin area, you should be alert.

What does the presence of itching and white discharge with a smell mean?

Normally, leucorrhea should not be accompanied by itching and a pungent odor. If there are such symptoms, this indicates the presence of diseases. First of all, thrush is a fungal infection of the external genital organs. It arises due to such reasons:

Also, whites with an unpleasant odor and itching accompany bacterial vaginosis. It is often confused with thrush, but they are not the same thing. These gynecological diseases have a different nature of occurrence and require the use of different methods of treatment.

Thick and liquid white discharge in women

In a healthy woman, the presence of white discharge is the norm. However, they must have the following characteristics:

• be transparent or white;
• do not have sharp unpleasant odors;
• not be accompanied by itching and burning, as well as pain in the groin area;
• may be thick or liquid.

Thus, the consistency of whiter is not a direct indication of the presence of pathology. Thick and liquid white discharge from the vagina without additional symptoms is a sign of the healthy functioning of the protective mechanisms of the female genital organs.

Methods of treatment with medicines and folk remedies

The methods of therapy are different - from the use of drugs to the elimination of symptoms with the help of folk recipes. Drug treatment of pathological leucorrhoea occurs in several stages.

The first stage is aimed at eliminating the cause of the appearance of abnormal whites. Depending on the pathogen, treatment may be:

1. Antibacterial. Antibiotics are prescribed - Penicillin, Tetracycline.
2. Antiviral. Antiviral drugs are prescribed.
3. Antifungal. The most common fungal disease that affects the external genitalia is thrush. It is quite effectively treated by Fluconazole and Clotrimaxosol.

The second stage is aimed at getting rid of the symptoms of the disease and restoring normal microflora. Also, doctors recommend adhering to a balanced diet and carefully monitor the cleanliness of the genitals.

Often, some folk remedies are used to treat whites. They are used in several ways:

1. Douching with decoctions of herbs. To do this, use St. John's wort, oak bark, mistletoe, calendula, eucalyptus and others.
2. Ingestion of decoctions and infusions. Juice of viburnum and barberry berries, tea from strawberries and deaf nettles effectively fight whites.
3. Baths based on herbs and plants.

Alternative methods are not always effective for treating a disease that provokes the release of whites. They will only help alleviate the symptoms.

Prevention

It is better to prevent a disease than to cure it. Prevention of the appearance of leucorrhoea in women is to follow a few simple rules:

• hygiene of the external genitalia (especially during menstruation);
• regular visits to the gynecologist;
• timely treatment of gynecological and other diseases;
• safe sex;
• use of quality contraceptives.

Isolation of leucorrhea in women is a normal physiological process.

If they are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms (pungent odor, pain, itching and burning), you should consult a doctor. You should not start the disease or self-medicate.

About what discharge should be alarming, the gynecologist tells in the next video.

Normally, in women, a secret is always separated from the vagina. It constantly moisturizes the mucous membrane, it is thanks to him that the vagina is cleared of desquamated epithelial cells, waste products of bacteria, remnants of menstrual flow and uterine mucus.

Allocations have certain qualities - smell and color. The type and aroma of the discharge are an indicator of the health of the reproductive system.

Healthy condition

In girls before puberty, the appearance of any discharge from the vagina is a sign of inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary or reproductive system.

Depending on the cycle time in women, the discharge should have a slight pleasant smell - a slight sourness is allowed, have a whitish color and a mucous consistency. Before menstruation, the discharge becomes thicker, during pregnancy their number increases. There may be small spots on the linen - no more than 5 cm in diameter.

A secret is produced by a special gland, which is located on the cervix. The quantity and quality of discharge are influenced by: age, the presence or absence of sexual activity, the number of sexual partners, general and gynecological diseases of various etiologies, lifestyle.

Changing the consistency of the secret

If the change in consistency does not cause itching and other unpleasant sensations - irritation of the mucous membrane or pain during urination, then the appearance of thick white discharge may be explained by natural causes.

In an increased amount may appear during intercourse or after it. This is how the body reacts first to the need to moisturize the vagina - without lubrication, coitus is painful, and then the saturated color is caused by sperm, which flows naturally. As soon as it flows out, everything will return to its natural state.

An increased amount of secretion, similar in consistency to the protein of a chicken egg, women
noticed in the middle of the cycle. At this time, the discharge departs more often during urination. The phenomenon indicates that ovulation was successful and on time.

White thick discharge appears before menstruation - most likely, there will be no menstruation or it will move away for a while. This character of the consistency of the secret is given by progesterone, which is intensively produced by the body in the first weeks of pregnancy.

If the test did not show that a new life is emerging in the body, then it has happened. Before menstruation, the discharge should liquefy.

Thick whites separate up to 12 weeks, then they become more liquid and their number increases. In the third trimester, a secret of this type appears again just before the birth. Thus, it can be understood that the mucus of the cork is leaving, which clogged the cervix throughout the pregnancy and protected the fetus from the infectious flora penetrating upward from the vagina.

The mucus plug can flow out within 2-3 days or move away at a time - in the second case, it is urgent to collect things and go to the hospital. Worry - if there are no unpleasant symptoms: pain in the lower abdomen, general fever and other things - you should not. Failures of the menstrual cycle can be caused by stressful conditions, changes in weather and climate factors, the nature of nutrition, and the intake of certain medications.

If a woman kept to a diet and she managed to lose a few kilograms, the body does not always have time to rebuild and the cycle of menstruation is disturbed.

Signs of a serious illness

If a woman is not pregnant, but for a long time she constantly notices thick white discharge, even without smell and itching, she needs to contact a gynecologist.

Do not postpone a visit to the doctor because of the fear of painful and lengthy diagnosis - for the initial diagnosis, a smear test is enough, which is taken absolutely painlessly during a routine examination on a gynecological chair.

If, with the appearance of a thick secret, you also feel general weakness, the temperature has risen to febrile values, it is not recommended to postpone a visit to the doctor. The following sources of pathological discharge are differentiated by origin.

Tube whites - they appear when the inflammatory process is localized in the fallopian tubes. Additional symptoms are painful aching at rest and sharp pains during movements on one side or the other of the lower abdomen. This occurs because the exudate accumulates in the tube, and then enters the uterus, and from it flows into the vagina through the cervix.

When separation occurs naturally, it is very good. But there are cases when, with inflammation of the fallopian tubes due to edema, purulent discharge accumulates in the tube and causes it to rupture. In this case, surgery may be necessary.

Uterine leucorrhoea appears with endometritis - inflammation of the uterine mucosa - regardless of the etiology of the inflammatory process. An increased amount of secretions begins to produce iron on the cervix with cervicitis - an inflammatory process in the cervix itself. Most often, this condition causes the introduction of pathogenic flora in ascending order, from the vagina. Sometimes these secretions are slightly foamy.

If white thick discharge with a smell is just vaginal leucorrhoea, then the disease has time to stop at the very beginning of its manifestation. She will not have time to climb up and involve important gynecological organs in the pathological process. Vaginal leucorrhoea reacts to the introduction of foreign flora within a few hours and, changing the consistency, signal a violation of acidity by changing the consistency.

For example, white thick discharge and itching, a sour smell are a characteristic sign of thrush.

Candida, the bacterium that causes this disease, is constantly present in the vagina - it is an opportunistic pathogen. As soon as the immune status decreases, its activity increases, which causes a change in the nature of the discharge and unpleasant symptoms. It is imperative to treat candidiasis - it increases the possibility of secondary infection, and during pregnancy directly affects the condition of the fetus.

To activate the vital activity of Candida, it is not necessary to live a sexual life. Favorable conditions for the occurrence of thrush: any infections, taking certain medications, eating disorders, stress, hypothermia ... These same factors also awaken another opportunistic culture - gardanella. In this case, the discharge may still remain whitish, only their number will increase, they will become more liquid and an unpleasant fishy smell will appear.

Throughout the menstrual cycle, a woman has discharge of different consistency and shades. Most often it is a white discharge, odorless and without itching.

According to their external descriptions, you can determine a lot about reproductive capabilities, suggest the presence of certain pathological processes and learn about pregnancy. A change in vaginal mucus is a reason to contact a specialist.

Types of secretions

The secretion of the female genital area is different in its genesis, which means its appearance from various organs of the small pelvis.

Distribution of secretion by origin:

1. tubal secretion- occurs during an inflammatory process in the localization of the uterine tubes, in which a liquid product of inflammation accumulates in the tube lumen, which first appears in the uterine cavity, then flows through the uterine neck to the external genital organ.
2. White discharge, odorless- these are the most harmless leucorrhoea. Sometimes, with inflammation of the vagina, there are also abundant white discharges, most often with smell and itching - these symptoms are signs of diseases such as trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis, candidiasis, etc.
3. cervical secretion- occurs during an inflammatory process in the location of the cervix (cervicitis). Often inflammation is provoked by mycoplasmosis, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, syphilis, etc.
4. Uterine secretion- with endometritis, which has arisen due to many pathogens. Here, the product of inflammation through the duct of the uterine neck flows to the external genital organ.

Normal discharge

White of the female genital organs is a specific microenvironment, on the composition of which the female health of the reproductive system largely depends.

Normal discharge

The mucous vaginal and cervical substance continuously produces a special mucus that protects the pelvic organs from the ingress of foreign microorganisms and the onset of the disease. The mucus slowly flows downward, leaving the vagina every day.

These leucorrhea, getting on underwear or panty liners, turn into pale or completely colorless spots. Such white discharge is not thrush, but normal secretion and does not need any therapy.

The secret secreted from the female genital organs, without deviations, is described as:

• Colorless or slightly whitish;
• Unusual impurities (purulent, bloody) do not appear;
• Miasma is not present;
• There is no manifestation of itching, burning, pain or any discomfort;
• Quantity - no more than 1 teaspoon per day.

In the continuation of the menstrual cycle, the properties of leucorrhea are inconsistent. Immediately after the critical days, leucorrhoea is colorless, rather liquid. Approaching the time of ovulation, the leucorrhoea becomes thicker.

Every day of the cycle, leucorrhoea from the female genital organs retains a light color, without sharp miasms and other uncomfortable sensations. The occurrence of itching, burning or painful feeling in the lower abdomen signals problems in the reproductive area and needs therapy.

White discharge in women during intercourse is also considered normal.

When should you see a doctor?

If there is no unpleasant smell from whiter and other uncomfortable sensations in a woman, there is no reason to worry. Under normal conditions, every day from the vagina in a healthy representative of the weaker sex, up to 1-2 teaspoons of mucous secretions can be discharged from the genitals.

The reason for an urgent visit to a gynecologist is vaginal mucosal leucorrhoea with the following features:

• Painful feeling when urinating;
• In the genital area, a feeling of pain and itching;
• Foamy whites associated with unpleasant odors;
• White, thick discharge, odorless and itchy;
• White discharge with a sour or fishy odor;
• The appearance of a small amount of blood or pus in the whites;
• Fever with vaginal discharge;
• Painful sensations (aching pains) in the region of the sacrum in the lower abdomen;
• Painful feeling during intimate contact.

What could it be?

Curdled leucorrhoea of ​​a cloudy white color, in which there are different odors, signal that the female system is affected by an infectious disease. In women, the most common is candidiasis.

The causes of this pathology are Candida fungi, with this disease there are white thick discharges with itching and the smell of sour foods.

There are enough factors for the appearance of this disease - this is the hormonal reshaping of the female body, excessive use of antibacterial personal hygiene products, stress or the use of antibiotics.

cervicitis

Cervicitis is often the cause of thick, white, odorless discharge and itching in women. With this disease, the inflammatory process is located on the uterine neck, inside and outside of which there are also protective mucous membranes.

In the process of resistance of healthy membranes with the causative agent of the disease, mucus is released, since inflammation occurs in the functions of the secreting glands.

Cervicitis is characterized by white cheesy discharge, painful pulling sensations in the lower abdomen and the appearance of blood particles after sexual contact.

Trichomoniasis

The second reason for the appearance of green or abundant white discharge is trichomoniasis. The disease often proceeds without symptoms., and this circumstance greatly complicates its diagnosis.

With strong white discharge with a not very pleasant smell, or with a small amount of green white, mild genital redness and itching, patients rarely visit a gynecologist, and diligently observe genital hygiene.

Therefore, the process of detecting infection can be delayed for a long time. In addition, trichomoniasis is established only with a laboratory examination.

Ovulation

This is the process of leaving the adnexal ovum when it is fully ripe for fertilization.
During this period, whites change. The vaginal secretion becomes thicker, more sticky, like egg white. The volume of whiter increases, and after the end of ovulation, they become thinner.

By the next critical days, if pregnancy has not occurred, the vaginal secretion is colorless and watery, white discharge without itching is likely.

In rare cases, women may experience white curdled discharge and itching.

Accompanying symptoms of the release of the egg:

• a sudden increase in body temperature (up to 37 ° C);
• the placement of the uterine cervix changes (the cervix becomes softer and goes down);
• aching pain in the appendages and lower abdomen;
• increase in sex drive.

You can find out about the start of ovulation through pharmacological tests, or when performing an ultrasound scan.

Gonorrhea

After a short incubation time, symptoms appear.

They appear as follows:

• thick yellow or white discharge with an unpleasant odor;
• itching and burning sensation that appears during urination and sexual contact;
• pain in the lower abdomen;
• violation of the monthly cycle;
• in some cases fever.

After a certain period, the acute stage, which was not treated, turns into a chronic one.

This is evidenced by the following signs:

• reduction of pain;
• itching and discomfort may be slight or disappear altogether;
• when visiting the toilet and during sexual intercourse, the presence of painful sensations is possible;
• white, liquid like milk discharge in a small amount.

The changes in consistency are affected by the number of leukocytes that are produced to fight the pathogen. Without proper treatment, chronic gonorrhea threatens the female body with the development of infertility.

Bacterial vaginosis

Dysbacteriosis is another name for this deviation. With this pathology, white curdled discharge in women becomes more abundant and dense, the color also changes to off-white, gray with a pronounced fishy smell.

Most women feel this unpleasant odor. It is associated with complication due to infectious pathogens.

With genital dysbacteriosis in women, itching cannot be a permanent symptom. Mostly women do not talk about any problems other than an increase in vaginal discharge. With aggravation, a burning sensation and pain in the lower abdomen is likely.

During the period of bearing a child, bacterial vaginosis can provoke involuntary delivery and other complications.

To determine the pathological changes in the bacterial environment, it is required to take a smear from the vaginal cavity and uterine cervix. The sampling is carried out with a special swab, and immediately sent to the laboratory for study.

When the presence of gardnarella (the causative agent of pathology) exceeds the 104 , antibiotic treatment is indicated. The regimen and scheme of the therapeutic course is established by the doctor.

Thrush

Abundant white thick discharge occurs with thrush. Rash, redness of the skin, etc. are also characteristic. At the initial period of the spread of candidiasis, only sometimes unpleasantly smelling leucorrhoea can come out, in which lumps or flakes of a dense consistency are sometimes found.

Also characteristic is the presence in the vagina of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms - gardnerella, with active reproduction of which mucous white curdled discharge with the smell of spoiled fish, reminiscent of milk, may also appear. Lumps are absent.

The disease can cause synthetic, tight underwear, moving, a large amount of sweets and frequent douching.

After taking antibiotics

After a course of antibiotic use, a woman may visit a white, sticky, odorless discharge. This is because the drugs affect the general condition of the body, the microflora and the secretion of all glands.

Therefore, often viscous white discharge, after treatment with antibiotics or taking hormonal contraceptives, is the norm. Usually, to prevent the development of fungi, doctors prescribe Furazolidone.

White discharge during pregnancy

Together with fertilization, the acidic environment of the woman's vagina is transformed - the glands begin to produce a larger volume of the protective shell, thus blocking the entry of pathogens of various diseases into the body of the uterus to the fetus, so the volume of whites may increase.

At this time, a woman must strictly observe the rules of personal hygiene and use underwear made from natural materials.

Flaky white curdled discharge without itching with a sour smell indicates the appearance of a fungal infection, the name of which is thrush.

Thrush has the following symptoms:

• white discharge on the clitoris;
• itching and burning when going to the toilet;
• pain and discomfort during intercourse.

The thrush has no effect on the formation of the child. But there is a danger of infecting a child passing through the birth canal of an infected mother, and this can adversely affect his health.

A pregnant woman must inform the gynecologist about the occurrence of pathological white discharge from the genitals. The doctor will make a diagnosis and establish acceptable methods of therapy for the expectant mother.

White discharge early

Since the fertilization of the egg, the hormonal picture of a woman changes. During this period, progesterone dominates - the main hormone that forms the conditions for successful conception and pregnancy.

Under the influence of progesterone, the properties of genital secretions also change. Normally, the vaginal secret becomes thicker, more viscous. Instead of colorless, abundant milky whites appear. Itching, burning and pain are absent.

An increase in physiological mucus, very thick, white, odorless discharge is a good reason to visit the gynecological office.

Other signs of conception:

• delay of critical days;
• enlargement and compaction of the mammary glands;
• frequent urge to urinate;
• sudden mood changes;
• drowsiness;
• nausea and vomiting (symptoms of toxicosis);
• transformation of taste preferences;
• fascination with unusual smells.

A change in white discharge with an odor along with these symptoms is the reason for taking the test for the establishment of hCG. An increase in the number of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) indicates the onset of conception.

Curdled discharge during pregnancy

White curdled discharge during childbearing is likely. In position, the female body spends all its strength on the formation of a child, and this creates excellent conditions for the reproduction of various microbes. White discharge from the vagina with a smell, appear due to thrush.

In order to get rid of the disease, gynecological suppositories are usually indicated., however, they can only provide a short-term effect. Therefore, experts advise to conduct prenatal sanitation of the genitals.

Diagnostics

The first thing any specialist does is a blood test, taking a smear from the vagina, urethra and cervical tract, in order to diagnose diseases of the reproductive system. In addition, the penis and urethra are palpated.

It is also likely that the appointment of the holding:

• Ultrasound of the genitourinary system;
• PCR diagnostics (polymerase chain reaction);
• colposcopy.

If white thick discharges are odorless and without itching or smelly, white discharges, then it is the PCR determination that is used.

Treatment

With thick white discharge, odorless and without itching, or an increase in the volume of vaginal secretion, the consistency of which resembles cottage cheese, you should go to the gynecologist. After taking a smear and visual inspection, the specialist determines the cause of the change.

The sooner the cause is established, the easier it will be to cure the disease.

Treatment is carried out in the form of the use of medications, such as: tablets, suppositories and douching formulations. All medications are prescribed individually by the doctor.

In pathology, antifungal medicines are used:

• Nystatin;
• Clotrimazole;
• Polygynax;
• Pimafucin.

These are pharmacological suppositories with a low negative effect, they are possible for treatment during the gestation period. With exacerbations in women, tablets are used - Orungal and Flucostat.

In case of infection, which is manifested by burning, white discharge and itching, Hexicon suppositories are used along with antibiotics. As a supplement, a douching composition or Miramistin spray is used.

Preventive actions

Protecting yourself from white discharge and potential sour smell is not difficult:

• observe the rules of hygiene.
• less irritate the mucous membrane of the penis.
• Use a natural cleanser to wash.
• take a bath more often.
• use sanitary pads daily, replace them if thick, heavy leucorrhoea comes out.
• wear underwear made from natural fabrics(cotton material). Air freely permeates through natural fabric, the skin surface “breathes” well.
  Healthy food.
• get enough sleep.
• avoid stressful situations.
• make time for physical exercise.

Odorless transparent white discharge is a physiological and safe process. However, in some cases they are a sign of illness. Therefore, when they appear, you should always contact a specialist.

Liquid discharge in women are the result of the physiological activity of glandular structures located in the genital tract. The presence of a liquid vaginal discharge is not a pathology, however, an increase in its volume, a change in color and consistency sometimes implies the development of a local pathological process.

Complaints about vaginal discharge are in the lead (90%) among others when contacting a doctor. Meanwhile, not every patient with a similar complaint after the examination reveals pathology.

Any discharge is the result of the secretion of glandular structures located in the submucosal layer of the vagina, as well as the glands of the cervix of the cervical canal. Vaginal secretions are necessary for the genital tract, as they perform several important functions:

- Hydration. Moist mucous membranes are not exposed to damaging mechanical stress when the body is in motion. Also, moisturizing the epithelium avoids the unpleasant feeling of discomfort and injury during intimacy.

- Exchange and food. The glandular secret washing the epithelial cells is involved in metabolic processes so that the cells can receive the necessary nutrients and get rid of unnecessary waste products.

- Cleansing. The epithelium of the vagina has a layered structure (stratified squamous epithelium). The surface layer is in a state of constant renewal, when the "old" cells are sloughed off, and new ones appear in their place. With the help of vaginal secretions, dead cells are eliminated from the surface of the mucous membranes.

— Protection. The vaginal environment has a constant microbial composition and acidity level. This constancy protects the mucous membranes from infectious aggression and inflammation. With good immune protection, the mucous membranes successfully cope with the onset of inflammation with the help of secretions. So that unwanted microbes do not penetrate into the deeper layers and do not provoke the disease, the glandular structures begin to produce more secretion, which “washes away” the microbes and does not allow them to penetrate deeper.

The contents of the vagina consist not only of the transudate of the stratified epithelium. It also contains the secret of the cervical glands, it has a thicker, mucus-like consistency and forms the so-called mucous "plug". Cervical mucus performs several important tasks:

- Cervical "plug" is a mechanical barrier to unwanted microbes and substances that can enter the uterine cavity.

- Due to the alkaline reaction, the cervical secret has a bactericidal effect.

- The viscosity of cervical mucus directly depends on the amount of estrogen and changes according to the phases of the menstrual cycle. By the time of ovulation, the contents of the cervical canal become less viscous.

So, liquid discharge in women is a normal, physiologically justified phenomenon.

The concept of "norm" in the selection is very conditional. As a rule, a woman herself determines the nature of the discharge, comparing them with her individual norm.

Sometimes abundant liquid discharge is associated with natural causes: stress, climate change, sexual arousal and the like. Most women notice an increase in the amount of discharge on the eve of menstruation. As a rule, an increase in the amount of secretions of a physiological nature is episodic and passes on its own.

There are indirect signs of pathological liquid secretions. As a rule, more often they differ from "normal" in appearance and / or smell, and may also contain unusual inclusions in the form of streaks of blood, white flakes or lumps, pus.

It should be noted that for the diagnosis of gynecological pathology, it is not the amount of secretions that is important, but their bacterial and cellular composition, which are determined in the laboratory.

Causes of liquid discharge

As mentioned above, the secretory function of the vagina and cervix is ​​a physiological process that ensures the normal functioning of the mucous membranes of the genital tract. In fact, the glands are an integral part of any mucosa lining the genital tract and organs, and it is often possible to judge the presence of pathology by the nature of their functioning.

For the first time, liquid discharge appears in girls on the eve (about a year) of the start of menstrual function, when the ovaries complete their development and begin to function fully. If the discharge appears in girls 10 - 12 years old, it is impossible to talk about the "norm". Gradually, the vaginal discharge acquires individual features and practically does not change them until menopause.

Abundant liquid discharge does not correlate with pathology if they:

- do not have an unpleasant "stale" smell;

- look homogeneous, transparent or whitish;

The amount of discharge is affected by emotional stress, hormonal status, climatic conditions, and even age. Abundant liquid discharge can be provoked by harmless natural causes, namely:

- Changes in the concentration of sex hormones, especially estrogen. The estrogen peak occurs in the middle of the cycle, so during the period of ovulation, the amount of secretions increases as much as possible.

- Incorrect intimate hygiene. Excessive enthusiasm for all kinds of douching, contrary to the expected positive effect, often harms the vaginal epithelium, as it contributes to the "washout" of not only unwanted, but also beneficial microflora.

Pathological abundant liquid discharge often provokes an infectious process, including a specific origin. They also accompany hormonal dysfunction,.

It should be noted that in appearance it is quite difficult to establish a reliable etiology of abundant secretions, since there is no clear relationship between the color, the amount of whiteness and their cause, therefore, a laboratory study of their composition is necessary.

White liquid discharge

The white color of copious discharge cannot indicate their cause, it is also not always associated with pathology. White can be both natural and pathological discharge.

Ordinary secretions contain lactobacilli and cells of the surface epithelium, which is constantly updated. When there are a little more epithelial cells, the discharge looks white.

Abundant white liquid discharge may signal a violation of the composition of the vaginal microflora. A healthy vaginal microenvironment has a constant composition and is represented by lactobacilli and opportunistic microorganisms: streptococci, staphylococci, anaerobes, mycoplasmas, gardnerella, E. coli, and so on. Each woman has her own unique composition of microbial associations, but the quantitative ratio of lactic acid and opportunistic flora is always constant. Lactobacilli outnumber (98%) the rest of the microflora and maintain the constancy of the acidity of the environment (pH 3.8 - 4.5) by synthesizing lactic acid.

Conditionally pathogenic microflora is not able to multiply intensively in an acidic environment, and also because of its small number, therefore it does not harm the mucous membranes. If the number of lactobacilli decreases, other, undesirable microorganisms fill the vacated space, and a change in acidity provokes their reproduction. Thus, a dysbiotic disorder of non-inflammatory origin is formed.

Bacterial vaginosis does not have severe clinical manifestations, as it is not accompanied by inflammation. More often he has only one symptom - profuse white liquid discharge like water, with the smell of rotten fish. If the processes of dysbiosis in the vagina are present for a long time, the discharge becomes thicker and, accordingly, somewhat darker.

The microflora of the vagina is constantly exposed to the negative influence of various factors that change its quantitative composition. These can be stresses, temperature fluctuations (hypothermia or, conversely, overheating), infectious diseases, frequent changes of sexual partners, short-term hormonal dysfunction, and others. Having the ability of self-regulation, healthy mucous membranes restore the microbial balance without outside interference, therefore, a short-term violation of the microbiocenosis does not lead to negative consequences and does not require therapy. However, a long-term depletion of the protective properties of the mucous membranes and inevitably provokes the development of local inflammation.

Since bacterial vaginosis has no specific symptoms and is not accompanied by local inflammation, its diagnosis is sometimes difficult. To distinguish the norm from pathology, it is necessary to study the state of the vaginal microflora. The fastest and most reliable way of primary diagnosis is express testing of the contents of the vagina with the determination of the level of acidity. The degree of pH deviation is correlated with a particular pathology. The microbial composition of secretions, including the content of lactobacilli, can be determined using a laboratory test (crops, smears).

Violation of the composition of the vaginal microflora can provoke an excessive growth of fungal microflora, in particular, Candida fungi. In a small amount, fungi are present in the vagina of healthy women. With a change in the composition of the microenvironment and a decrease in local mechanisms of immune defense, the fungi begin to vegetate intensively and provoke an inflammatory process -.

Among the complaints of patients with candidal inflammation, vaginal itching and abundant white liquid discharge are in the lead. Often they contain specific inclusions in the form of white flakes or lumps, so they become like sour milk or cottage cheese. Their consistency varies from liquid to very thick.

Yellow liquid discharge

Yellow color is sometimes acquired by physiological fluid discharge when they leave the vagina and end up on the linen. However, similar traces remain with pathological whites, if an infectious-inflammatory process develops in the epithelium of the vagina and / or cervical canal.

In order to reliably determine the color of whites and assume their true origin, a visual assessment of the condition of the mucous membranes is necessary. As a rule, leucorrhoea containing pus has a yellow and yellow-green hue. They appear during infectious inflammation, including those of a specific origin (,).

Pathological yellow liquid discharge with an odor is often accompanied by inflammatory changes in the mucous membranes: edema, hyperemia, purulent plaque. Severe inflammation always provokes discomfort in the form of discomfort, burning, pain, itching. If such symptoms were preceded by unprotected sexual contact, this inflammation is often associated with a sexual infection.

The secret of the cervical glands flows into the vaginal cavity, which, in the presence of inflammation in the cervical canal, provokes an increase in the amount of vaginal discharge. A similar situation occurs when a lot of discharge from the uterus enters the vagina, when an infection in its cavity causes the uterine glands to secrete heavily.

Thus, abundant liquid yellowish discharge may appear against the background of infectious inflammation of the vagina (), cervix (exo - and) and uterus ().

Liquid brown discharge

The brown color of the whites indicates the presence of blood in them. Blood, depending on the amount, can stain the vaginal discharge in red, pink and brown. If the source of bleeding is insignificant, on the way out the blood has time to oxidize and decompose (curl) and therefore acquires a dark, brown hue.

Liquid brown discharge may appear:

- After mechanical damage to the mucous membranes: douching, gynecological manipulations (especially), abortion, birth injuries. If the “culprit” of brown liquid discharge is a doctor performing a certain procedure, he always warns the patient about the possibility of unusual discharge. As a rule, brown discharge after a mucosal injury disappears on its own after the epithelium regenerates.

- In the intermenstrual period or be a continuation of the next menstruation. More often, their presence is associated with hormonal dysfunction or the use of hormonal contraceptives.

- Against the background of inflammatory changes, when the mucous membranes are easily injured and may bleed slightly.

- Because of the intrauterine device. In the endometrium at the site of attachment of the helix, there is a small local inflammation, so the epithelium is easily injured. If brown liquid discharge against the background of the intrauterine device is constant, it is necessary to resolve the issue of its removal from the uterine cavity.

- Against the background of pseudo-erosion. The mucous membranes of the cervix at the site of ectopia are often inflamed and may bleed a little.

- Due to pregnancy. If brown discharge appeared after a delay in the next menstruation, you should make sure that there is no pregnancy.

- As a symptom of gynecological diseases -, endometriosis,.

- In the process of regeneration of mucous membranes in those who gave birth. Physiological postpartum discharge () gradually changes its color from scarlet to brown, and then passes on its own. Their presence is not associated with pathology.

Sometimes liquid brown discharge appears against the background of pelvic pain, fever, deterioration of health. It is impossible to independently determine the cause of such a condition and, moreover, to cure it.

Regardless of the origin and the presence of concomitant negative symptoms, liquid brown discharge does not correspond to the norm, therefore, when they appear, an examination is necessary.

Liquid clear discharge

As already mentioned, copious, odorless and colorless liquid discharge may have natural causes and not be a pathology. They are more likely to resemble egg white or clear mucus, but if the viscosity changes, they may become thinner. Vaginal discharge becomes transparent if lactobacilli dominate in their composition, and not epithelial cells.

Fluid discharges like water can also correlate with the normal variant. The viscous consistency of the vaginal discharge is due to the cervical glands. Cervical mucus is very thick and, getting into the vagina, increases the viscosity of the secretions. In turn, the cervical secret changes its parameters under the influence of cyclic hormonal fluctuations, as a result, transparent secretions become either liquid or resemble viscous mucus.

If you observe the nature of the secretions in different phases of the cycle, you can see how their number, color and consistency change. It should be noted that the amount of discharge determined by the woman herself is very subjective. The same volume of vaginal discharge by two women can be interpreted differently, because each uses its own “norm” as a criterion. Therefore, in order to equalize all the available ideas, the amount of whites is conventionally measured by the size of the spot that they leave on linen or padding.

In the first phase, there is little discharge (spot diameter 2-3 cm), they are colorless or whitish, have a watery or mucous character. By the middle of the cycle, coinciding with the period of ovulation, the vaginal discharge noticeably increases (the spot increases to 5 cm), it becomes like a viscous whitish or grayish mucus. In the days following ovulation, the vaginal discharge again becomes sparse, the consistency may resemble a cream, and some patients compare it with jelly. A similar change in vaginal discharge occurs every menstruation.

Liquid discharge during pregnancy

A pronounced dependence of vaginal discharge on hormonal status is also manifested during pregnancy. After the onset of pregnancy, a corpus luteum is born from the remains of the destroyed follicle in the ovary, it should contribute to the proper development of pregnancy. Biphasic cycles no longer occur, and the hormone progesterone, which is produced by the corpus luteum, begins to play a leading role. Changes in the hormonal background affect not only the sexual sphere, the whole body adapts to the onset of pregnancy.

In the first weeks, when the body adapts to new conditions, a pregnant woman may experience more abundant, clear or whitish, odorless liquid discharge. They are normal if they are not accompanied by signs of inflammation and do not cause discomfort.

Bloody or brown liquid discharge, especially accompanied by pelvic pain, against the background of early pregnancy is an alarming pathological symptom, it may indicate a spontaneous abortion. Similar symptoms are present in women with.

By the middle of pregnancy, the vaginal discharge becomes the same as it was before pregnancy. Sometimes the discharge is thicker and more viscous.

It should be remembered that the presence of pregnancy does not exclude the possibility of developing infectious inflammation or local dysbacteriosis. Therefore, if the secretions become too plentiful, acquire an unpleasant stale smell, change color to yellow or yellow-green, they signal trouble.

Due to physiological reasons, namely a decrease in the concentration of estrogens and a decrease in the number of lactobacilli in the vagina, the risk of developing bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginitis (including special etiology) or vaginal candidiasis in pregnant women increases significantly.