Sometimes a woman is concerned that she has a white, thick, odorless discharge that does not cause discomfort, but leaves yellow marks on her underwear. What could it be if it is impossible to associate the appearance of secretions with anything specific? There can be several reasons for thick, odorless discharge.

Discharge during the menstrual cycle

At the end of the menstrual cycle, there is usually a mucous discharge of a light milky color that does not have an odor. These are small discharges, up to about 2 ml per day. If white, thick, odorless discharge appears in the middle of the monthly cycle, these may be manifestations. They are more plentiful and viscous, transparent, similar to the protein of a raw chicken egg.

The body needs the strongest sperm to overcome such a difficult barrier. After ovulation, the amount of secretions decreases, they do not smell, they are similar in consistency to jelly. An increase in the number of whites is observed a few days before the start. If such discharges are disturbing, a doctor is needed, without whose prescriptions no drugs can be used.

Discharge before and after sexual intercourse

If white, thick, odorless discharge appears during sex, this may be a common lubricant produced by the glands of the vestibule of the vagina. Thick and profuse discharge may occur after sex without using a condom, when the vagina is cleared of semen. Such secretions quickly disappear. A little white vaginal lubricant may come out after coitus interruptus or when using a condom.

Discharge should be alert, which has an unpleasant, pungent odor, yellowish, greenish color, while there is a feeling of discomfort, periodic, pain.

Discharge during pregnancy

In addition, white, thick, odorless discharge may also appear during early pregnancy, which is associated with influence. At this time, the discharge may be white or clear. Such secretions protect the uterine cavity from infections and become an obstacle to spontaneous miscarriage. With a decrease in the action of progesterone and an increase in the action of estrogen hormones after 12 weeks of pregnancy, the discharge also changes. They become liquid and more abundant, whitish or colorless.

Allocations as a result of gardnerellosis

Another cause of discharge may be (bacterial vaginosis), which is caused by an imbalance in the microflora of the vagina. In this case, the discharge is not abundant, homogeneous, grayish-white in color, characterized by an unpleasant odor.

But even a full course of treatment (with suppositories, antibiotics and other means) does not permanently eliminate secretions, they may disappear for a while, and reappear with a decrease in immunity.

A few more possible causes of discharge

Changing weather conditions can also cause a large amount of white thick discharge in healthy women. When taking certain medications (for example, hormonal contraceptives) and breastfeeding, due to changes in the hormonal background, the discharge becomes insignificant and homogeneous.

Common signs of discharge from a healthy woman

Signs of vaginal discharge that are normal:

• secretions are clear, jelly-like;
• a small amount of discharge;
• no noticeable odor;
• no irritation of the skin and mucous membranes;
• absence of itching, temperature, pain, discomfort in the genitals.

Intimate hygiene rules

Good personal hygiene is very important to prevent many infections. The use of properly selected cosmetics with plant extracts or with the addition of lactic acid for washing will preserve the natural microflora of the vagina. It is advisable to use sanitary pads during heavy discharge of whites, not forgetting to change them more often. The choice of underwear should be taken seriously: it is advisable to wear loose cotton underpants instead of tight synthetic underwear.

Normal are clear, liquid, non-abundant, odorless discharge. The mucus that makes up the discharge is a product of the glands of the cervix. Also, the composition of vaginal discharge includes dead epithelial cells and microflora, which is always present in the vagina.

Constant minor secretions do not allow infections to occur, cleansing the female genital tract and blocking the path of pathogens. Their number and consistency depend on the phase of the menstrual cycle and the condition of the woman. The symptoms of the disease are indicated by irritating mucous membranes of the genital organs and the skin of discharge with a smell, causing pain, itching, and temperature.

Provided there is no discomfort and poor health, white thick discharge in women is a completely normal and natural phenomenon. But if this symptom is accompanied by itching, pain in the uterus or ovaries, you should consult a gynecologist. Perhaps these are the first symptoms of a serious illness.

The slimy light lubricant that stands out from the woman's vagina is called leucorrhea. This phenomenon can have many causes, among which are natural physiological processes or pathological phenomena from the reproductive system.

Regarding the origin that caused the pathological release of secretion, there are several types of whites:

1. Vaginal - appear in the phase of recovery from various diseases of the genitourinary system.
2. Tubal - appear as a result of inflammation of the cervix or fallopian tubes. A distinctive feature of these secretions is a yellowish tint and a liquid consistency;
3. Cervical - appear due to dysfunction of the cervix. The main causes are cancer, gonorrhea, chlamydia.
4. Uterine - arise due to the presence of inflammatory processes or neoplasms on the mucous membrane of the uterus. In this case, the secretion is watery, purulent, in the later stages of the disease it becomes brown.

If the presence of spotting clots of an uncharacteristic color causes discomfort, discomfort, you should seek medical help to exclude severe pathologies.

Causes of whiteness from the vagina

The origin of sputum can be determined by smell. If it is absent, or weakly expressed, this indicates a physiological process. And vice versa, fever, itching, an unpleasant "fishy" aroma are signs of serious diseases of the reproductive system.

With smell

• Dysbacteriosis is a condition in which the healthy balance between pathogenic and beneficial bacteria in the vaginal environment is disrupted. This phenomenon progresses with a decrease in immunity or the appearance of favorable conditions for the reproduction and growth of dangerous bacteria and microbes.
• Thrush is a fungal disease that provokes the appearance of abundant curdled clots, which is accompanied by itching and burning.
• Chronic inflammatory processes of the uterus and appendages.
• Colpitis is an inflammation that affects the walls of the vagina and the external genitalia. This problem occurs due to infection with the coccus bacillus and other diseases transmitted through sex.
• Gardnerellosis - defeat by the bacterium gardnerella.

The risk of pathological discharge is increased in women who lead a promiscuous sex life or do not follow the rules of intimate hygiene. It will not work at home to deal with the cause of violations in the reproductive system, the main symptom of which is an abundant secret of an uncharacteristic color with an unpleasant odor. This is an occasion to contact a gynecologist for an examination and the exclusion of severe pathologies.

Without smell

• taking antibiotics
• use of contraceptives
• lack of vitamins in the body
• stress, unstable psychological state
• climate change
• use of vaginal suppositories or tablets for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes

The presence of thick and light copious discharge is observed at the beginning of pregnancy. This is a physiological process that allows you to protect the uterine cavity from various microbes and infectious ailments.

Lubrication in the development of candidiasis

Candidiasis or thrush is a common infectious disease. Its causative agent is the pathogenic fungus Candida. The disease progresses if the bacterial microflora is disturbed, or when it is transmitted from a sick partner to a healthy one during sexual contact.

Characteristic differences in lubrication for candidiasis:

• plentiful;
• strong sour aroma;
• curdled consistency;
• the shade is white, but, subject to the addition of other infections, it may change;
• accompanied by pain during urination, burning, itching in the area of ​​​​the internal and external genital organs.

This disease is contagious and can flow into a chronic form, therefore, it requires urgent treatment.

Lubrication with the development of gardnerellosis

Gardnerellosis is one of the variants of bacterial vaginosis. The malaise is manifested against the background of an imbalance in the microflora in the female genital organs. There are many causes of this disease, the most common of them are:

• promiscuity
• unbalanced diet
• venereal and chronic diseases
• taking antibiotics or birth control
• improper douching technique
• hormonal disorders
• weakening of the immune system
• stress, fatigue

Whites with gardnerellosis have a pasty or uniform texture, a grayish-white color and a pronounced "fishy" aroma. The problem is accompanied by itching and burning, unpleasant painful sensations during urination or sexual contact.

What is considered the norm?

Normally, a secret comes out of the vagina of a healthy woman - a transparent or whitish hue. Its quantity and consistency change during the menstrual cycle, and the smell remains mild, sour.

Stages of the appearance of secretion is normal:

• at the beginning of the cycle - scarce
• in the middle of the cycle - a slight increase in density and quantity
• the period of ovulation, before the onset of menstruation - the appearance of abundant creamy sputum

Also, a certain amount of lubricant is released during or after sexual intercourse.

Before the onset of menstruation, the mucous secretion has a uniform creamy texture. The hue of sputum can vary from light beige to white.

Beli during ovulation

Ovulation is the rupture of the follicle and the release of a mature egg. This phenomenon is accompanied by the release of viscous elastic mucus, similar to egg white. By color, the secret can be colorless, with a white or yellow tint. In some cases, bloody streaks are observed.

Mucus while carrying a child

In early pregnancy and during the formation of a mucous plug in the cervical canal, abundant light beige or white clots may be observed. Such a secret is considered a variant of the norm, provided that it is not accompanied by unpleasant sensations and discomfort. Otherwise, you should consult a doctor.

Which doctor to contact

In the presence of pathological lubrication, a woman should go to an appointment with a gynecologist who will conduct an appropriate examination and, if necessary, prescribe tests.

Diagnostics includes:

• chair examination
• colposcopy if erosion or dysplasia is suspected
• swab for flora
• bacterial seeding
• smear analysis by PCR
• transvaginal ultrasound

If problems are observed in a pregnant woman, this should be reported to the obstetrician-gynecologist at a scheduled examination.

Treatment Methods

Treatment of leucorrhea is prescribed by a gynecologist after identifying the root cause. Self-medication in this case is unacceptable, because improperly selected drugs will only aggravate the patient's condition.

Therapeutic measures are aimed at:

• elimination of the cause depending on the pathogen: antibacterial or antiviral drugs, surgery, etc.;
• restoration of the normal balance of microflora;
• Improving immunity (if necessary);
• restoration of affected tissues, improvement of blood circulation and microcirculation: physiotherapy, swimming, physiotherapy exercises.

After treatment, the patient must follow preventive measures aimed at reducing the risk of the disease in the future.

Preventive measures

The main rule for the prevention of pathological secretion is the observance of intimate hygiene.

Intimate hygiene rules:

• daily water treatments
• use of special detergents
• quality comfortable underwear
• timely change of sanitary pads

To stay healthy, a woman needs to carefully choose her sexual partners and use a condom. It is also important to carefully monitor the health of the organs of the reproductive system, and, at the slightest suspicion, consult a doctor. Timely treatment of gynecological ailments can reduce the risk of complications in the future.

Video: What discharge should alert women?

Vaginal discharge is divided into physiological, normal for a certain age and stage of the menstrual cycle, and pathological associated with diseases of the genital organs. It is impossible to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment for a single symptom, but the appearance of a discharge that is different from the norm gives a reason to contact a gynecologist and undergo an examination.

Normal the discharge consists of a mixture of mucus, dead epithelium and microbial cells, the secret of the Bartholin glands located on the threshold of the vagina. They contain glycogen - a nutrient for beneficial microflora, and lactic acid - a waste product of lactobacilli. The content of glycogen is maximum on the day of ovulation. Normally, there are transparent discharges or whitish, the consistency is mucous, with small lumps or homogeneous, without an unpleasant odor, up to 4-5 ml per day in volume.

Beli

Abundant vaginal discharge or scanty, but atypical in nature or smell, is called leucorrhoea. Whites create a constant feeling of moisture, burning and itching in the perineum. Causes copious discharge - inflammatory processes ( , ); infectious diseases of the urogenital organs, non-specific or STDs; tumors or injuries of the internal genitalia; allergic reactions to latex, spermicidal lubricants, underwear and hygiene products for intimate areas.

By origin, there are vaginal discharges, uterine and tubal (watery, large in volume) and cervical (thick, scanty).

White with pus - a symptom of inflammation,bloody are often associated with tumor development; curdled or resembling white flakes are characteristic of thrush; orange and greenish with a putrid odor - for gardnerellosis (bacterial vaginosis);foaming appear with trichomoniasis.

Beli can appear after long courses of contraceptives, after douching with antiseptics; with constipation and a static lifestyle, leading to stagnation of venous blood in the small pelvis. The omission of the walls of the vagina, microtrauma of the genitals after sexual intercourse, ruptures of the perineum also cause the formation of leucorrhoea.

Mucous discharge is normal

The first mucous secretions are observed in newborn girls, the appearance of a secret is associated with residual amounts of maternal hormones. After 3-4 weeks, the discharge disappears and reappears by the age of 8-11 years, when the production of one's own estrogen increases. Mucus is secreted periodically, similar to raw egg white or rice water, sour in smell, color - white with a yellowish tint.

Further, during puberty, cyclic vaginal discharge appears. The beginning of the cycle is the first day of menstruation; in the 1st half of the cycle and until its middle, coinciding with ovulation, there is less discharge. They are mucous or watery, homogeneous, possibly with small lumps. In the middle of the cycle - mucous and abundant, viscous in consistency, possibly beige or brownish.

After ovulation jelly-like discharge, similar to jelly. They increase the content of lactic acid, which is produced by lactobacilli, and the discharge acquires a sour smell. Increased acidity protects the vaginal mucosa, which is looser and more vulnerable to infection during this time period. Before menstruation, the volume of mucous secretions increases again.

Discharge during pregnancy liquid and copious, whitish or transparent. Before childbirth, the cervix dilates, and the cervical plug comes out in the form of a rather large clot of mucus, possibly with an admixture of scarlet blood. Usually the release of the cork coincides with the first contractions. If there is more vaginal secretion than usual, then you should go to the gynecologist: perhaps amniotic fluid is “leaking”.

The presence of liquid blood or blood clots in the discharge suggests an ectopic pregnancy, a threat of interruption gestation, atypical position (previa) or placental abruption. All options are dangerous, at any moment they can be complicated by bleeding and end in death. A pregnant woman who has noted the appearance of scarlet blood from the vagina should immediately lie down, then immediately call an ambulance.

White discharge

During puberty, vaginal discharge may be due to inflammation. intestines, bladder, uterus or ovaries. These episodes include pain associated with urination, intestinal colic or pulling sensations in the lower abdomen and in the lumbar region. Perhaps the temperature will rise, a blood test will show signs of inflammation (leukocytosis, an increase in ESR): then inflammation treatment will be needed.

10-12 months before the onset of the first menstruation, the vaginal mucosa reacts to hormonal changes and liquid, transparent discharges or white, the color of highly diluted milk, odorless or sour are formed. No measures need to be taken if there are no complaints of burning or itching in the perineum, and the discharge does not take on a curdled appearance.

After the onset of sexual activity, the consistency and composition of the secretions change, the reason is the addition of the partner's microflora, which is different in composition from the vaginal flora. It takes time to adapt, in each case is different, and the situation will return to normal again. During the adaptation period, the volume of secretion increases, the discharge becomes more liquid, with a pale yellowish or whitish tint. A change in sexual partner is almost always associated with a variation in the nature of vaginal discharge.

After unprotected intercourse, the discharge normally first takes the form of yellowish or white clots, and after 5-8 hours the secret turns into a liquid and plentiful. After protected intercourse, a white and thick discharge appears, resembling a lubricant.

Taking contraceptives or breastfeeding reduce normal secretion: vaginal discharge is scanty and thick, white or yellowish.

gives white curdled discharge, copious, sour in smell. Sometimes the discharge resembles yellowish curd lumps or white flakes. The disease is accompanied by itching and swelling of the genitals, irritation of the skin of the perineum. The development of candidiasis is a sign of a decrease in immunity.

cheesy white plaque in the vagina with thrush

Thrush is often associated with STDs(, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis) and, manifests itself in metabolic diseases (diabetes mellitus) and tumors. Candidiasis definitely requires treatment.

Video: vaginal discharge - norm and pathology

Yellow and green discharge

"Colored" discharge from the vagina occurs with STDs, bacterial vaginosis (gardnerellosis), with nonspecific genital inflammation.

With STDs, leucorrhoea is always pain and burning associated with urination.

: visible on examination of the vagina yellow discharge, emerging from the cervical canal and flowing down the walls of the vagina. Belyam is accompanied by pain in the lower back and lower abdomen, an increase in Bartholin's glands. The diagnosis is confirmed by PCR analysis.

: leucorrhoea plentiful, frothy, greenish or yellowish with a strong putrid odor. May drain onto the perineum, inner thighs and cause skin irritation.

: moderate in volume, the color is yellowish white. May be accompanied by bleeding without matching the cycle, pain of the "lowered belt" type - lower back, lower abdomen, inner thighs. With gonorrhea, a putrid smell of leucorrhoea is often found; a change in their color from grayish-white to yellow indicates the transition of the acute stage of the disease to the chronic one.

: leucorrhoea plentiful, grayish-white, with the smell of rotting fish. Sticky, yellow-green and even orange discharge is typical of an untreated, long-term disease. Itching is not strong, occurs periodically. All symptoms are exacerbated immediately after intercourse.

Nonspecific vaginitis(colpitis): with this disease, leucorrhoea is the main symptom. The type of vaginal discharge varies, depending on the severity of the process. With inflammation of the vagina, the secret becomes sour by reaction, by consistency - viscous and stretching or plentiful and liquid, loses its transparency. A hazy white tint is given by leukocytes,yellowish-green color due to the presence of pus,yellowish-pink - blood. In the initial stages of inflammation, serous leucorrhoea is liquid, watery; then they transform into purulent - thick, green, with a strong putrefactive odor.

and adnexitis: inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. May appear as specific complications caused by ascending venereal infection in STDs, or "normal" inflammation of the internal genitalia. The discharge is always accompanied by pain in the abdomen; in the acute period - periodic, cramping and strong, in the chronic stage - of medium and low intensity, constant, dull, pulling.

Let's summarize. Causes of yellow and green whites:

• foamy discharge - a characteristic sign of STDs;
• abundant discharge is typical for the acute stage of colpitis, adnexitis and salpingitis;
• scanty leucorrhoea - for chronic adnexitis and salpingitis.

Brown and pink discharge

Associated with the presence of blood in vaginal secretions; may appear for physiological or pathological reasons.

Physiological reasons:

1. small brown, pink or scarlet discharge in the middle of the cycle: the laundry does not get dirty, the color is noticeable only on sanitary napkins or toilet paper. Secretion signals that ovulation has taken place, which helps plan pregnancy.
2. pinkish and brownish discharge- the norm for the end of menstruation, when there was a complete rejection of the endometrium and the proliferation phase begins (growth of a new endometrium).
3. Bloody issues during the period of taking hormonal drugs. If they last more than three cycles, then it is worth changing the contraceptive and being examined by a gynecologist.
4. Secretion of cervical mucus with bright blood- in pregnant women before childbirth.

Pathological causes

Pathological causes can be: sexually transmitted diseases (gonorrhea), endometritis, uterine tumors, endometrial hyperplasia, polyposis, cervical erosion, endometriosis.

For gonorrhea the infection rises from the vagina upwards, affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Appearance blood in streaksamong mucopurulent secretions and intermenstrual bleeding are signs of an ascending gonococcal infection. A confirmed diagnosis is made after, which must be positive for gonorrhea, or after the detection of gonococci in it.

- inflammation of the functional uterine layer, which is updated after each menstrual cycle. brown whites, associated with endometritis, appear before and after menstruation, it is also possible to produce brownish mucus in the middle of the cycle. Almost always, inflammation of the endometrium is combined with its hyperplasia (growth) and menstrual bleeding, often the cycle is shortened. Profuse bleeding leads to anemia, the hemoglobin content drops to 50-70 g / l (the norm for women is 120-140 g / l). A woman feels constant fatigue, shortness of breath and dizziness appear even with little physical effort.

Endometrial hyperplasia is considered a precancerous condition.

To return the endometrium to normal, you must first cure the inflammation. The course of antibiotics lasts at least 3 months, the drugs are prescribed for 3 menstrual cycles.

Endometriosis is an overgrowth of glandular tissue (endometrium) in the neck and muscular layer of the uterus (myometrium), fallopian tubes, ovaries, in the abdominal organs. Endometrial cells get into atypical places during abortions, during instrumental examinations of the uterus, during childbirth and during the return of menstrual masses. endometriosis spreads i, leads to numerous local inflammations and the formation adhesions; common complication - infertility.

Drawing pains during menstruation are typical, bloody discharge from all foci of growths of the endometrium. At colposcopy small multiple nodules or cysts, cyanotic or red stripes are visible on the cervix. Bloody-brown leucorrhoea becomes lighter after menstruation, their volume decreases during this period and increases again before the next menstruation. Abdominal endometriosis is a common cause of internal bleeding and subsequent surgery (laparotomy).

Cervical erosion: violation of the integrity of the mucosa, when viewed to determine the boundaries of erosion, acetic acid, 3-5% solution is used. After smearing the surface with acid, erosion is visible as a whitish spot on a pink background. When erosion occurs, small spotting appears, their number increases after intercourse.

Bleeding in cancer patients

endometrial hyperplasia accompanied by smearing brown or bloody discharge before and after menstruation. Acyclic uterine bleeding is possible: they are long, up to several weeks and even months, leading to anemia. The disease develops due to hormonal imbalance, with problems with lipid and carbohydrate metabolism (obesity, diabetes mellitus), hypertension, after gynecological operations, with hereditary predisposition, as a result of STDs - after inflammation of the uterus, with endometritis.

For treatment, combined estrogen / progestin preparations are used, with severe bleeding - curettage of the endometrium. Be sure to do a biopsy, assess the degree of cellular atypia and growth of glandular tissue. If cancer is suspected, the examination is repeated.

Polyps in the uterus- these are elongated growths of the endometrium, symptoms of polyposis often become brown discharge and postmenstrual bleeding. Discomfort during sexual contact is possible, immediately after its completion - spotting brownish discharge. The reasons for the formation of polyps are an imbalance of estrogens and progestogens, inflammation of the endometrium and cervical canal. Small polyps are discovered by chance; large (more than 2 cm) are manifested by pain in the form of contractions, increased menstrual blood loss. The main complication is infertility; the transition of polyposis to a malignant tumor has not been proven.

Tumors in the uterus in the later stages they are manifested by bleeding, in the early period - by spotting vaginal brown discharge. Tumors of the uterus are divided into benign(polyps, fibromyomas and myomas) and malignant(endometrial cancer and myosarcoma, cervical cancer). Leucorrhoea with pus and scarlet blood, possibly offensive, is characteristic of the decay of the tumor; with cervical cancer appear thick discharge, scanty, streaked with blood. Submucosal fibromatous nodes always give severe bleeding, that is, they clinically proceed malignantly. Cervical cancer quickly metastasizes, spreading to the pelvic lymph nodes, the liver and lungs, and can move to the walls of the vagina.

Video: discharge from women, expert opinion

Vaginal discharge, or leucorrhoea (also leucorrhea), occurs in healthy women, as well as in various diseases, especially infections. A common cause of excess fluid secretion is bacterial vaginosis, that is, an imbalance in the normal vaginal microflora, as well as thrush (candidiasis). The discharge of leucorrhoea may be accompanied by burning, itching, and an unpleasant odor. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

What is beli?

Should a healthy woman have leucorrhea? Yes, this process reflects the normal cleansing of the mucous membrane from dead cells. In most women, the amount of vaginal secretion secreted increases before ovulation and. This is due to changes in the hormonal background and an increase in secretion by the glands of the cervix and vagina, which helps possible fertilization. In a healthy woman of reproductive age, about 20 ml of leucorrhoea is formed per day, but this amount is individual.

A change in smell, color, or an increase in the amount of discharge, accompanied by irritation of the tissues of the vagina, may indicate the presence of an infection.

Causes of the appearance of pathological discharge

The walls of the vagina and cervix contain glands that secrete a small amount of fluid, which helps to cleanse the genital tract. Normal leucorrhoea is transparent or milky white in color, they do not have an unpleasant odor. Various infectious diseases can cause a change in their volume, consistency, color or smell.

Pathological causes of changes in the nature of the discharge:

• Bacterial vaginosis

This is an imbalance in the number of bacteria that are normally present in the vagina. Its exact causes are unknown. Previously it was believed that vaginosis is caused by bacteria gardnerella, and was designated as gardnerellosis. However, an increase in the number of these microorganisms during the disease is not always observed.

• Trichomoniasis

• Gonorrhea

The infection is transmitted sexually. The causative agent is the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or gonococci.

• Chlamydia

Another sexual infection caused by microorganisms from the genus Chlamydia. In infected women, symptoms are usually absent, and leucorrhoea becomes the only manifestation of the pathology. In the acute course of the disease, in addition to abundant discharge, there are signs of inflammation of the vagina, urethra, and bladder.

• Candidiasis

The disease occurs when Candida overgrows in the vagina, often due to antibiotics or other factors that destroy the normal bacterial flora of the vagina.

Symptoms

Pathological leucorrhoea in women can have a different color - from transparent to gray, yellow, greenish or milky white, as well as an unpleasant odor of a different nature. Symptoms depend on their cause:

• : not all women are accompanied by this symptom, but often under the influence of a provoking factor, an abundant discharge of a grayish-white color appears, with an unpleasant fishy smell.
• causes frothy yellow-green leucorrhoea with a smell. Associated symptoms include discomfort during intercourse and urination, irritation and itching of the genitals.
• accompanied by symptoms in only half of the infected women. The patient may be disturbed by burning during urination, an increase in its frequency, yellow discharge from the vagina, redness and swelling of the genitals, itching in the vagina.
• is also often asymptomatic. In other patients, the amount of discharge increases and symptoms of cystitis, urethritis appear.
• accompanied by thick, odorless leucorrhoea, reminiscent of cottage cheese in texture. Other symptoms include burning, pain during urination and intercourse.

Leucorrhea in healthy women

The nature of vaginal discharge can change at different times in a woman's life.

Beli before menstruation occurs 2-3 days before they begin. They are usually white or slightly yellowish. If a woman uses intrauterine contraception (), whites of a yellow or brownish color and a smearing character will be normal. By consistency, they are quite thick, mucous in nature, with a slight sour smell.

Pregnancy period

During the 1st trimester of pregnancy, a woman usually does not notice any changes in the nature of the vaginal secret. From the 13th week, the formation of a mucous plug that closes the cervical canal occurs, the metabolism and the death of the cells of the vaginal wall are accelerated. These processes are accompanied by an increase in the volume of secreted mucus, which normally has a light or white color, a liquid consistency, and no smell.

In the 3rd trimester, the discharge becomes quite abundant. This symptom is called "leukorrhea during pregnancy." If it is not accompanied by itching, burning, redness of the external genital organs or a change in the color and smell of the discharge, this phenomenon is physiological in nature and requires only hygiene. Any changes in the usual properties must be reported to the attending physician.

Climax

Beli with gradually become less intense. However, they retain their normal color and a slight odor. Abundant discharge of yellow, green, curdled consistency or mixed with blood should be the reason for contacting a gynecologist.

The function of the gonads in older women fades away, so the hormones no longer affect the condition of the vaginal wall. Its dryness develops, which should not cause concern. With discomfort, the gynecologist may prescribe an estrogen-containing cream that stimulates the mucous glands. At this age, abundant discharge, especially watery, becomes a sign of pathology, which can be a sign of endometrial cancer.

Vaginal Discharge Options

To find out if medical care is needed for whites, it is necessary to determine their nature:

• milky white: a variant of the norm, usually occurs before menstruation or a few days after it;
• transparent and watery: a variant of the norm, if not accompanied by itching and an unpleasant odor;
• reminiscent of egg white: elastic, light, occur during the period, indicate the greatest ability of a woman to conceive;
• yellow: a sign of an infectious process; with an accompanying fishy smell - a symptom of bacterial vaginosis;
• green: symptom of infection; with an accompanying unpleasant odor, most likely trichomoniasis;
• brown: hormonal imbalance, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and implantation bleeding after pregnancy; during childbearing may be a sign of a threat of interruption of gestation;
• thick: occur in the second phase of the cycle, often indicate the end of a favorable time for conception;
• white crumbs: a sign of thrush;
• pink: a symptom of a tumor of the cervix or endometrium, vaginal infections,.

Other possible causes of abnormal discharge

A change in the nature of whites can occur under the influence of more rare causes:

Allergic reaction

May evolve into a new brand of laundry detergent, intimate care products, etc. Chemicals in detergents, fabric softeners, creams, sprays, topical contraceptives (creams, vaginal tablets), and condoms can irritate the genital area. The same reaction sometimes occurs with intolerance to antibiotics.

Systemic diseases

First of all, diabetes. Women with this pathology have an increased risk of vaginal candidiasis. Also, thrush occurs when local immunity is suppressed and the number of normal lactic acid bacteria decreases under the influence of antibiotic therapy. Sometimes candidiasis develops after the use of any one of the groups of antibacterial drugs (for example, ciprofloxacin), while others do not cause an exacerbation of the disease.

Non-observance of hygiene rules

The cause of discharge and an unpleasant odor can be a hygienic tampon forgotten in the vagina. You can try to remove it yourself, after washing your hands well. If parts of the tampon still remain inside, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist, as they can cause purulent inflammation and septic shock.

Diagnostic Measures

When deviations from the norm appear, the following diagnostic methods are used:

• clarification of the symptoms of the disease, the time of their appearance and other characteristics;
• vaginal examination with examination of the walls of the vagina and cervix using mirrors;
• a smear from the vagina and from the surface of the cervix for microscopic examination;
• polymerase chain reaction to identify infectious agents.

Treatment

Medical therapy

Preparations for the treatment of leucorrhoea are prescribed by a gynecologist after establishing the causes of the pathology. Antibiotics are most commonly used in the form of tablets, injections, or topical preparations such as vaginal suppositories.

It is important to get the full course of antibiotics or antifungals prescribed, even if the symptoms are gone. If signs of the disease persist or recur, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist to rule out a malignant tumor of the genital organs.

To restore the vaginal microflora after antibiotic therapy is completed, it is recommended:

• vaginal suppositories Lactobacterin, Atsilakt, Bifidumbacterin, Bifiliz, Femilex;
• vaginal capsules Laktozhinal, Laktonorm, Ecofemin;
• vaginal tablets Vaginorm-S.

Treatment of leukorrhea should include compliance with the rules of hygiene:

• washing with soap twice a day;
• refusal to use tampons;
• change panty liners after each urination or bowel movement;
• use of unscented condoms during sexual intercourse;
• use only cotton underwear.

Possible consequences of diseases accompanied by leucorrhoea in women, in the absence of timely therapy:

• inflammatory diseases of the small pelvis (salpingitis, oophoritis, endometritis, endocervicitis);
• ectopic pregnancy;
• infertility;

Treatment with home remedies

Any pathological discharge requires a visit to a doctor. Self-medication at home without accurate diagnosis can cause a temporary improvement in well-being, caused by the transition of the pathology to a chronic form. If at the same time there are sexual infections, the woman remains a source of pathogens, thinking that she is healthy.

Douching as a method of treatment is not recommended by doctors. The body cleans the walls of the vagina spontaneously. Douching can upset the normal balance of microflora, cause inflammation and increase symptoms. It is better to replace this popular method of therapy with sitz baths.

Folk remedies

Useful decoctions for oral administration:

• wormwood roots (20 grams per glass), take a tablespoon three times a day;
• peony roots, sweet clover grass, which are brewed and drunk instead of tea;
• juice of viburnum berries; a quarter cup a day is enough to reduce the intensity of the discharge.

For washing and sitz baths, you can prepare the following products:

• take 30 grams of crushed eucalyptus leaves, pour a glass of boiling water, cool, strain and dissolve the infusion in 1 liter of boiled water;
• Dissolve 10 ml of pharmacy tincture of calendula in alcohol in a glass of water;
• use St. John's wort, chamomile, oak bark, yarrow, sage to prepare decoctions;
• with severe itching, concentrated soda baths at the rate of 5 tablespoons per liter of water will help to quickly eliminate it.

Forecast and prevention

In most cases, the conditions that caused the appearance of pathological leucorrhea respond well to therapy. When treating atrophic vaginitis in older women with hormonal drugs, the restoration of the mucous membrane will take several weeks.

In case of recurrence of a vaginal infection, the doctor prescribes more effective drugs, conducts a deeper examination to determine the causes of the protracted course of the disease.

To avoid diseases that can cause pathological discharge, it is necessary to observe the following preventive measures:

1. Compliance with sexual hygiene, use (of condoms), refusal of promiscuity.
2. Treatment with antibiotics only as prescribed by a doctor.
3. Good nutrition, giving up bad habits, eliminating adverse factors that can adversely affect a woman's health.
4. Competent treatment of concomitant diseases, especially diabetes mellitus.

Discomfort in the intimate area always worries the fair sex. And the cause for concern is often viscous mucous discharge from the vagina, the consistency and color of which change depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy.

However, whites are also transformed due to certain diseases, so every woman needs to be aware of the symptoms that require a visit to the doctor.

What is viscous discharge in women?

Mucous viscous discharge or leucorrhoea is a physiological phenomenon characteristic of the menstrual cycle. In fact, it is a biological fluid that is produced by the gonads. All women in puberty begin to discharge, and you should not worry about this.

But if the liquid thickens strongly or acquires any shade, this may be the first symptoms of certain diseases, for which an additional examination is carried out (for details on the color of the discharge, see).

The primary source of such mucus is the gonads located in the uterine cavity and on its neck. When passing through the vagina, various sputum, dead epithelial cells, and sometimes blood (for example, in the presence of injuries or during menstruation) are added to the liquid.

Normal secretions do not have any particular smell, and their amount may vary depending on the current hormonal state of the woman and the phase of the menstrual cycle.

In addition, during intercourse, the intensity of mucus production increases - this is a natural reaction that allows you to avoid unpleasant and painful sensations.

If whites have a nasty smell, an uncharacteristic color (rotten fish, for example) and a too thick consistency, then this may indicate a pathological process - it's time to contact a specialist to clarify the situation.

Stringy discharge during pregnancy

In the first 2-3 weeks after the fertilization of the egg, the sex glands of the uterus and its cervix synthesize a large amount of hormones and biological fluid, informing the whole body about the conception that has taken place. In this case, an increase in the density of leucorrhea is normal.

White viscous discharge closer to childbirth may become brownish due to blood impurities. Often this indicates that the mucous plug from the cervix has moved away, thereby clearing the way for the baby.

But there is also a dangerous moment: the presence of blood in the whites can signal the possibility of a miscarriage, so a pregnant woman should inform the doctor about any changes in her condition.

During the period of bearing a child, the expectant mother is also not immune from infection in the vagina, the development of bacterial vaginosis or candidiasis. For a child, such diseases can greatly complicate life after birth. And in order to protect the baby from unwanted pathologies, a woman needs to contact a gynecologist with such symptoms:

• mucus became more viscous and lumpy;
• the discharge foams, acquires an uncharacteristic color and smell;
• in the genital area there is a burning sensation or itching;
• the external genitalia are very red and swollen.

Stringy discharge in women during menstruation

Before the onset of menstruation, the amount of viscous discharge increases. This is an absolutely normal physiological process. In general, whites during the menstrual cycle are characterized as follows:

1. First phase. The mucus is watery and not very copious.
2. Second phase. Estrogen reaches its maximum level, ovulation occurs, viscous discharge takes on a jelly-like consistency.
3. Third phase. Beli acquire a pinkish tint and again liquefy.

From the beginning of the menstrual cycle to menopause, the female gonads synthesize mucous secretions: transparent, viscous and without a strong odor.

If the quantity and quality of this biological fluid changes during the above periods, then the process is the norm and does not require any therapeutic measures. In the case of a change in the color of whiter, the appearance of a pungent odor or an increase in their consistency to a pathological level, it is necessary to go to the hospital.

Normally, the microflora of the vagina is 95% composed of beneficial microorganisms - lactobacilli. However, with an immune failure, a shift in the normal balance is possible, which contributes to the reproduction of completely undesirable strains and progression.

In addition, the ingestion of fungi of the genus Candida into the vagina often causes candidiasis. If, with vaginosis, the discharge usually has the smell of rotten fish and a gray-white color, then with candidiasis, the mucus takes on the consistency of the curd mass.

Although these diseases are not among the sexually transmitted infections, in the case of unprotected intercourse, the partner can also become infected. Several factors usually contribute to pathological disorders of the microflora:

• low immunity;
• transferred stress;
• poor hygiene of the intimate area;
• unhealthy lifestyle, including nutrition;
• injuries in the vaginal area.

The result of such disorders can be not only a change in color, smell and consistency of leucorrhoea, but also itching and burning in the vulva, pain during urination and sex. To restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina and eliminate unpleasant symptoms, women are usually advised to take oral or vaginal therapy, usually antibiotics.

If the fair sex observes green or yellow viscous discharge, then they can indicate both a sexually transmitted infection, and erosion of the cervix, and inflammation of the appendages, and other diseases. In such a situation, doctors perform an additional examination of the woman's body to identify the exact cause of the pathology and carry out the necessary treatment.

Conclusion

The best option for every woman is to visit a gynecologist at least once a year. Regular examination will make it possible to timely establish the presence of pathology in the vagina and take appropriate measures. But if a woman has an active sex life, and even with different partners, then the frequency of visits to the doctor should be increased.